Study at Black
Mountains College

The variety of age ranges of the students was so reflective of how you work in a community. I think the older students really brought something to the group as we have been out there in the world, and I loved all of the new ideas coming from the younger ones. There were so many lovely moments. I’d do it all over again if I could!

A Regenerative Horticulture Student

What drew me to the College was the fact that it’s out in nature, you’re surrounded by absolutely stunning views, and you really feel part of nature going through the seasons. I really embodied this more than I have ever done in my life.

A Regenerative Horticulture Student

I wanted to pursue higher education without compromising academic freedom and access to a wide range of thought and theory. Traditional educational systems didn’t seem to be doing enough in response to the climate emergency and prioritising it in the way that seems non-negotiable. 

A Degree Student

“What I enjoyed most about studying at BMC was how immersive it was as an experience. Living on campus gave me a sincere connection to the site and made exploring the forests and working with the wood we coppiced feel significant. But what sticks in my mind the most, is the sound of rain tapping the tin roof of the woodworking barn, the sweet smell of wood shavings and the comradery of everyone working together. I continue to use the skills we developed in commissioned work today. Since graduating, I have started my own business – Ashton Dieback Services.”

Tommy Ashton, Coppicing & Greenwood Trades Student

The Ecological Futures Camp was a transformative experience. Beyond all, I learned that I can manifest ideas into tangible projects; that I can turn my passion into a blazing fire. A highlight was working in a team to create a solution to problems in the food system. A transformative element of the course was the openness, nuance and delicacy that infected the space. The space felt diverse, with people from many different backgrounds. I felt that the space made room for both our common humanity, the necessary critical social theory, and the importance of bridge-building.

Ecological Futures Camp Student

It was a friendly crowd – there was a real mix of people; sixth form and university students, a few young landworkers, cafe workers and a lawyer, and a significant range in the breadth and depth of people’s knowledge. The ideas from the camp were focused on people and society’s relationship to food, farming and the land, and how we might go about changing these. The Ecological Futures camp has convinced me that I can live my values and work at changing the world, while existing and supporting myself in a messy world.

Ecological Futures Camp Student

I realised I needed to be outside doing something different. The idea of the college is amazing – somewhere between a forest school and a weekend workshop. Everything you learn is applicable – you can take it away with you. This is experience and knowledge and passion, rather than memorising things from a book and doing a test at the end of it. It’s very supportive. They help teach business skills alongside big ideas. There are so many opportunities.

Lewis Williams, Coppicing & Greenwood Trades Student

I’ve always dreamed about doing something that’s more in touch with nature and learning practical skills. It’s amazing what the College has done here. It’s changed my life. I feel so grateful

Priya Doshi, Coppicing & Greenwood Trades Student

“It’s not academic in that way, it’s not learning from books. It’s learning from being out there in nature and experiencing things with our whole bodies, rather than just reading about it and knowing it in an intellectual way.”

Alison Stunt, Regenerative Horticulture Student

The BA has some great teambuilding exercises and activities. I feel like a community is growing & I’m no longer alone

A Degree Student

Ben and Jed are fantastic tutors. Their expertise is second to none and I genuinely enjoy their lessons. They both go above and beyond to help the students.

A Coppicing & Greenwood Trades Student

The course is already having an impact on what I do in regard to working on the land, saving money and time. It also has reminded me how fragile everything is and that I should be more responsible for the things around me.

A Further Education Student

The staff are really on side and very approachable. I admire their style and all of them have been friendly and accepting of all of us.

A Further Education Student

I loved the horticulture lessons, and the content was well adapted to the regenerative aspect

A Regenerative Horticulture Student

BMC provides a unique learning opportunity in a fantastic environment, with knowledgeable and inspiring tutors who have a passion for subjects that really matter

A Further Education Student