Beginner training courses near you
Beginner courses are offered by our network of local branches throughout the UK. To book a beginner course contact your nearest branch. https://www.dswa.org.uk/branches/
If you are new to dry stone walling and you would like to learn more about this traditional craft, why not try one of our beginner courses offered by our network of local branches located throughout Britain. They offer short, usually weekend, courses aimed at beginners seeking to learn the basic skills of the craft.
Training is delivered by recognised DSWA Instructors who will provide information and practical experience in the basics of building a dry stone wall. Branches also offer anyone who joins as a member of the DSWA the chance to attend free practice days to improve skills or work towards one of the certificates in dry stone walling (see qualification courses below).
If you would like to know more about the beginner courses please contact your nearest branch. Contact details can be found here. https://www.dswa.org.uk/branches/ . Dates of beginner courses available from branches are available on our events page.
Dry Stone Walling Qualification training courses
Looking for a new career? Want to work in the countryside? Want to broaden your skill set? Why not train for qualifications in dry stone walling?
If you already have some dry stone walling experience and are looking for a career in dry stone walling or just want to improve your skills, we offer four-day training courses aimed at preparing you to take our Lantra accredited Craftsman Certification Scheme Qualifications.
Courses are held at our National Training Site near Milnthorpe in Cumbria.
Training is available at all levels and is delivered by Master Craftsman Instructors.
The Qualification Courses are held Monday—Thursday with an optional Qualification Test Day (booked separately) on the Friday.
Qualification Courses at Level 1 and Level 2 can be booked using our online booking system. For advice on the Level 3 or the Master Craftsman Certificate email training@dswa.org.uk . Group / bespoke / corporate courses available by prior arrangement.
More information can be found in the Craftsman Certification Scheme Booklet.
If you wish to book a Test Day, please complete the online Test Day Application Form on the Craftsman Certification page where you can also make payment for the Test.
*Note: Clicking ‘Book online’ below will take you to our separate booking site at ‘BookWhen.com’.
What qualification is right for me?
Level 1 Certificate in Dry Stone Walling
Covers basic walling and repair work and concentrates on developing the skills and knowledge required to progress on to career opportunities in dry stone walling and other related areas.
We advise that people start with the Level 1 qualification and then gain further experience before progressing to the Level 2 qualification.
Level 2 Certificate in Dry Stone Walling
Develops dry stone walling skills and knowledge to a level where candidates are able to register as a Professional Dry Stone Waller with DSWA. Aimed at achieving a good standard of walling including the construction of a cheekend.
Candidates should already hold their Level 1 qualification or have been dry stone walling as a career for at least 12 months before taking the Level 2 qualification.
Level 3 Certificate in Dry Stone Walling
The Level 3 qualification is aimed at Professional dry stone wallers.
It looks for a higher level of quality craftsmanship, including the construction of features, retaining walls etc.
Candidates must hold their Level 2 Qualification before attempting their Level 3.
Qualification Courses at Level 1 and Level 2 can be booked using our online booking system. For advice on the Level 3 or the Master Craftsman Certificate email training@dswa.org.uk
For more information on the Craftsman Certification Scheme Qualifications you can view this pdf.
Check out the Rural Skills Hub for more information on traditional rural skillsRural Skills Hub