one-day course

advanced composting

venue: Heeley City Farm, Sheffield

This course is for anyone interested in retaining and recycling the nutrients from their bio-waste, and enriching and conserving their soil.

Small-scale composting, at the domestic or community level, has a low carbon footprint and is environmentally the best practice for dealing with wastes created by households. Although it is widely promoted, there are few opportunities to learn how to become a skilled composter. This practical course aims to help the individual become a confident competent composter. It will also challenge some of the myths about composting.

The course will include practicals sessions and activities, so dress for outdoors with good footwear. No prior knowledge necessary

The course is run by Cath Kibbler, Co-ordinator of the Community Composting Network

The course includes:

  • composting in context: natural nutrient cycles and a brief history of composting
  • biology of composting: carbon and nitrogen ratios, the roles of air water, heat, and ‘compost work-force’ biota
  • equipment: bins, bays
  • other aspects: leaf mould, vermiculture
  • community composting: taking it to the streets
  • uses of and using compost

more on composting


how to book:
 

if you can't open the booking form, you need Acrobat Reader - it's free

arrive:
 
around 9.30 for a 10am prompt start
depart:
 
after the course finishes at 5pm
directions:
 
click here for directions
what to bring:
 
work clothes; pen and notebook; packed lunch (if you're not using the cafe)
let us know:
 
if you have any special needs
price:
 
£60
lunch:
 
bring a packed lunch or you can get lunch at the cafe
discounts:
 
car sharing:
 
visit our car sharing forum to offer or request a lift
 

 

 

 


simplicity and proximity: you don't have to spend a lot of money (or any at all) on a compost bin - and put it close to your kitchen / kitchen garden, so you don't have to carry compostable material very far




compost has been shown to prevent plant pathogens, such as rots and fungi, when used as a mulch





success - it's in the mix: twigs, leaves and kitchen waste provide an ideal mix of carbon-rich and nitrogen-rich materials