Classes
From Life Drawing to Zumba, Acoustic Guitar to Book Club, why not try something new or develop your existing skills in a whole range of disciplines.
We run regular and one off classes and workshops in arts, crafts and health and wellbeing. All our classes are led by friendly, experienced arts professionals and are a great opportunity to meet new people and explore new ideas.
The programme changes from season to season, so if there’s nothing that catches your eye right now, do check back next season.
Browse upcoming classes and workshops below
Little Wrigglers (Wednesdays)
Led by Rachel Walsh
A thrilling, energetic and creative dance class. Explore imaginative themes and adventures through dance, song and mime.
Suitable for ages 2+ years.
Wed 14 Sept - 14 Dec (exc 26 Oct and 2 Nov)
10am – 10.45am
£6 | £4.50 siblings (over 2 years) | £20 for 4 sessions a term
If you would like to book the offer price for 4 sessions, please enter a ticket for each date you would like to attend into your basket and the offer will apply automatically
Beginners/Gentle Yoga
Led by Julie Potter
This class is particularly suited to beginners, those returning to yoga having had a break, those with specific injuries or conditions or even those that consider themselves to be of a ‘certain age’ that might need a less challenging approach. We will cover general breathing practises, the basic and gentler postures, together with general information and possible discussion around movement and the potential difficulties we might come up against.
The aim will be to relax and enjoy.
The yoga I teach is an evolution of nearly 30 years of practice and study, with a broad experience of many styles and teachers. In recent years I have been moving away from ‘external’ evaluation of the postures and moving towards an ‘internal’ sense of the postures, moving away from the more used traditional approach of systemised yoga to a more experiential and ‘felt’ approach, influenced by teachers who have been inspired by the teachings of Vanda Scaravelli.
Summer
Wed 15 Jun - 20 Jul, Wed 27 Jul - 17 Aug
11am - 12.15pm
£10 per session, £28 per 4 week course, £35 per 5 week course, £42 per 6 week course
Autumn
Wed 14 Sept - 26 Oct, Wed 2 Nov - 14 Dec
11am - 12.15pm
£10 per session | £49 per 7 week course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Crafternoons
Led by Kayleigh Robinson.
Norden Farm's Crafternoons are relaxed crafting sessions for older people.
Get crafty with a range of activities, or bring along your own projects to work on with support from tutor Kayleigh Robinson.
You can learn new skills, meet new people and try something new, a cup of tea is included with the ticket price. If you are unable to attend in person you can log on from home to chat and join in the session.
Wed 14 Sept Polymer Clay Beads
Wed 21 Sept Macramé
Wed 28 Sept Felting
Wed 5 Oct Autumn Wreath
Wed 12 Oct Embroidery
Wed 19 Oct Plant Pot
Wed 26 Oct Ceramic Pumpkin
Wed 2 Nov Petal/Leaf Jar
Wed 9 Nov Bird Feeder
Wed 16 Nov Canvas Painting
Wed 23 Nov Marbled Vases
Wed 30 Nov Christmas Card
Wed 7 Dec Christmas Wreath
Wed 14 Dec Christmas Ornament
Wed 21 Dec Snow Globe
Social Arts Crafternoons is a partially funded project run by Norden Farm with support from The Berkshire Community Foundation.
Suitable for ages 60+ years.
Wed 22 Jun - 24 Aug, Wed 7 Sept – 21 Dec
2pm - 3pm
£5 per session, including a cup of tea
These are blended sessions, where you can take part in person at Norden Farm or online via Zoom.
If you need transport to Norden Farm for this session please contact Jess Thompson at jess.thompson@nordenfarm.org / 01628 682563 to talk through your requirements.
Norden Farm Youth Theatre (Junior)
Led by Little Tanks Ltd
In each session children take part in a series of drama games and activities that develop their confidence as well as teaching them drama skills. These include focus, communication, developing a character and voice projection.
As the weeks go on the group will each have a part with some lines to learn in a small-scale show. They will rehearse as a team and share what they have learnt during the last session, more details to follow on this after half term.
Suitable for ages 7 - 11 years
'Norden Farm is my favourite after school club, it always keeps me moving and relaxed. It is a great place to go for drama and within a short time, I have become far more confident and expressive' Timothy, age 7
'We have sent both of our children to Youth Theatre at Norden Farm and have seen dramatic improvements in there ability, confidence, social awareness and expressiveness generally and specifically. The environment is safe and developmental in a broad and exciting sense' Alex - parent
Wed 21 Sept - 30 Nov (exc 26 Oct)
4.55pm - 5.55pm
£85 per 10 week term
- 5 Oct
- 12 Oct
- 6 more dates...
Norden Farm Youth Theatre (Senior)
Led by Little Tanks Ltd
Each term we will be focusing on developing the participants confidence and well-being through a series of drama games and activities.
This term the Senior Youth Theatre group are focusing on developing drama skills. They’ll learn a deeper understanding of performance and managing their nerves as well as some more specialised techniques including comedy and physical theatre.
Suitable for ages 12 - 16 years
'Norden Farm is my favourite after school club, it always keeps me moving and relaxed. It is a great place to go for drama and within a short time, I have become far more confident and expressive' Timothy, age 7
'We have sent both of our children to Youth Theatre at Norden Farm and have seen dramatic improvements in there ability, confidence, social awareness and expressiveness generally and specifically. The environment is safe and developmental in a broad and exciting sense' Alex - parent
Wed 21 Sept - 30 Nov (exc 26 Oct)
6pm - 7.30pm
£120 per 10 week term
- 5 Oct
- 12 Oct
- 6 more dates...
Crochet and Rosé
Led by Sophie Keaveney
Do you like to crochet or knit? Join us for a relaxed and creative get together over a drink of your choice.
Suitable for those with experience of crochet / knitting.
Please bring your own project along. Some spare needles and wool will be available.
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
If you are taking part online, you will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Wed 10 Aug, 7 Sept, 5 Oct, 2 Nov, 7 Dec
7pm – 8.30pm
£6 including a drink from the bar | £3 online
Please prepare for your visit by reading our latest Visitor Information here. This includes important information about face coverings and measures we have implemented to keep everyone safe when visiting Norden Farm.
Acoustic Guitar - Absolute Beginners (Wed)
Led by Richard Lee
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? It is never too late to learn. Learn guitar right from the beginning. These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Wed 7 Sept - 5 Oct, Wed 12 Oct - 16 Nov (exc 26 Oct), Wed 23 Nov - 21 Dec
7pm - 8pm
£40 per 5 week course
Suitable for 18+ years.
Acoustic Guitar - Beginners (B)
Led by Richard Lee
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Wed 7 Sept - 5 Oct, Wed 12 Oct - 16 Nov (exc 26 Oct), Wed 23 Nov - 21 Dec
8.30pm - 9.30pm
£40 per 5 week course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Studio Art Club
Led by Helen Ridley
We are delighted to offer our brand new drawing and painting class this Autumn - the Studio Art Club.
Every two weeks on Thursday from 11am - 2pm you will join local artist Helen Ridley to explore your inner artist.
Helen will demonstrate a range of techniques and materials, from watercolour and gouache to pencils and pastels.
Each session will explore a different theme with a range of references to choose from, giving you the opportunity to explore and experiment.
The Studio is open to all abilities and you will need to bring your own materials, please see details listed below:
Materials
● Watercolour paints
● Watercolour brushes
● Gouache paints
● Coloured pencils
● Coloured Pastels
● Watercolour paper
● Sketchbook to plan compositions and colour palettes
Mixed media paper will be available
The Studio Art Club runs from Thur 8 Sept every 2 weeks on the dates below.
Thur 8 Sept, 22 Sept, 6 Oct, 20 Oct, 3 Nov, 17 Nov
11am - 2pm
£25 per session | £120 per 6 week term
Zumba (Thursdays)
Led by Annet Bowler
Zumba with Annet is a fun, easy to follow, dance based class. Get fit and exercise in disguise to uplifting Latin rhythms!
This 60 minute class feels more than a party that exercise class. It suits all levels of ability and beginners are very welcome.
Zumba is a total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility.
It can help make you feel happy, healthy, strong, amazing, unstoppable and confident!
Thur 8 Sept - 15 Dec
11.30am – 12.30pm
£6 per class
Classes on Thursday 24 November and Thursday 1 December will be led by Carla Leech
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
If you are taking part online, you will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
If the tutor is unavailable for a session, a replacement will be provided wherever possible.
Acoustic Guitar - Beginners (C)
Led by Richard Lee
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Thur 8 Sept - 6 Oct, Thur 13 Oct - 17 Nov (exc 27 Oct), Thur 3 Nov - 22 Dec
7pm - 8pm
£40 per 5 week course
Booking cut off time: 6pm on the first day of each course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Tango
Led by Tango Journey
Tango is a social dance. All across the country people gather in village halls to socialise and dance to the music of 1930s/40s Buenos Aires.
The course is suitable for beginners and for those that want to refresh the fundamentals of the dance. You will learn how to dance with a partner, with the music and within a group.
You will learn a little about the history and culture of tango and you will be given music and film clips to enjoy at home. Above all you will have fun!
Thur 8 Sept - 6 Oct, 27 Oct - 24 Nov
8pm - 9pm
£12 per session or £50 per 5 week course
Acoustic Guitar - Intermediate
Led by Richard Lee.
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? It is never too late to learn. Learn guitar right from the beginning. These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Thur 8 Sept - 6 Oct, Thur 13 Oct - 17 Nov (exc 27 Oct), Thur 3 Nov - 22 Dec
8.30pm - 9.30pm
£40 per 5 week course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for 18+ years.
Little Wrigglers (Fridays)
Led by Rachel Walsh
A thrilling, energetic and creative dance class. Explore imaginative themes and adventures through dance, song and mime.
Fri 16 Sept - 16 Dec (exc 28 Oct, 4 and 18 Nov)
11am – 11.45am
£6 | £4.50 siblings (over 2 years) | £20 for 4 sessions a term
Suitable for ages 2+ years.
If you would like to book the offer price for 4 sessions, please enter a ticket for each date you would like to attend into your basket and the offer will apply automatically
Intermediate Yoga
Led by Julie Potter
This class is suited to those who have been practising for at least 6. My intention for this class is to move our practise forward, explore different avenues and approaches to the traditional postures. We will be aiming to be going deeper into ‘awareness’ and ‘noticing’.
The yoga I teach is an evolution of over 20 years of practice and study, perhaps moving away from ‘external’ evaluation of the postures and moving towards an ‘internal’ sense of the postures, moving away from the more used traditional approach of systemised yoga to a more experiential approach. Whilst looking at traditional Hatha Yoga postures and pranayamas, I will be encouraging fun and freedom within the traditional structure, whilst taking into our awareness fundamental anatomical and functional aspects required by our bodies for maximum wellbeing benefits.
Fri 9 Sept - 28 Oct (exc 30 Sept), Fri 4 Nov - 16 Dec
£10 per session, or £49 per 7 week course
11am - 12.15pm
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
A Basic Introduction to Clay (Coiling)
Led by Helen D Evans
The intention is to spend 3 weeks creating a series of hand formed work out of clay and spend the final week decorating your work with underglazes. Your work will then be clear glazed, fired and then collected from Norden Farm.
We will be trying out a different technique each week and hope to have at least 3 pieces of work by the end of the course.
An outline of the 4 week course:
Week 1: An introduction to the basics of Pinch Pots and attaching coils
Week 2: Using coils for decoration
Week 3: Upside down coiling
Week 4: Decorating your work with Underglazes
The price includes: Clay, use of tools, Underglazes and Glazes and firing work. All work will be fired to Earthenware.
You may want to bring with you:
A cloth to wipe your hands on
An apron
Any clay tools you may have
After the course.
Norden Farm will notify you regarding the collection of your work
Fri 7 Oct - Fri 28 Oct
11am - 1pm
£96 per 4 week course
- 7 Oct from £96
- 14 Oct
- 2 more dates...
Align and Flow Yoga
Led by Deborah Le Vene-Page.
Align and Flow Yoga is influenced by the biomechanics and heart orientated philosophy of the Anusara Hatha style of yoga. With a specific alignment focus within the flow of postures the practice will tone and strengthen the body, improve posture and create more freedom in the body and mind resulting in a calm and relaxed state of being.
Each week there will be a different theme weaving its’ way through the session, but a typical class starts with breathing techniques to centre and ground, poses to warm up and then progresses to a fun and challenging mix of vinyasa and alignment yoga.
This class is designed to cultivate focus, stamina, strength, and flexibility. Leaving time at the end for a well-deserved relaxation.
Come prepared for an energising class that will also leave you feeling relaxed.
Suitable for 18+ years
Sat 10 Sept - 10 Dec (exc 29 Oct, 12 Nov, 19 Nov)
£11 per session | £99 for the 11 week term
10am – 11am
Suitable for all levels of experience. Please bring a yoga mat with you.
Creative Mindfulness For Children (Aged for 4-7 years)
Led by Stella Chenery
Children will learn to:
• Recognise and understand feelings, thoughts and emotions
• Focus the mind
• Cultivate kindness and compassion towards themselves and others
• Relax and calm their minds and bodies
• Express their feelings
Through creative activities, art, sound, stories, meditations, visualizations and discussion.
Suitable for ages 4 - 7 years.
Sat 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 17 Dec
11am - 11.45am
£10 per child, per session
Please note that children need to be accompanied to and from the workshop space but not during the session and you are not required to stay on site. However, you will need to complete an emergency contact form with our DBS checked tutor before the session begins.
Paint Land or Seascapes on small watercolour paper
Led by Jo Hall
Bring a photo reference from a holiday by the sea or of the countryside and complete two or three small paintings in watercolour; these may be as small as three by four inches up to about five by seven inches or similar square formats.
This really hones your skills in composition and simplifying subject matter.
Materials - please bring the following
Watercolours pan or tube, brushes, palette, water pots, paper towel, small sponge, pencil
Drawing board, block of wood about 2 x 2 x 6 inches to tilt the board (may be better than a table easel for this workshop), masking tape
Watercolour paper - hot or cold pressed surface and about 300gsm, or small Khadi paper.
If you are bringing quarter size watercolour paper or A3 please bring a 12 inch ruler to mark out the painting areas.
There is no need to purchase small papers especially for the workshop.
Some paper will be available at cost from the tutor including some handmade Indian paper (Khadi).
Additional photo reference will also be available.
Sat 8 Oct
11am - 4pm
£40
Creative Mindfulness For Children (Aged 8 - 11 years)
Led by Stella Chenery
Children will learn to:
• Recognise and understand feelings, thoughts and emotions
• Focus the mind
• Cultivate kindness and compassion towards themselves and others
• Relax and calm their minds and bodies
• Express their feelings
Through creative activities, art, sound, stories, meditations, visualizations and discussion.
Suitable for ages 8 - 11 years.
Sat 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 17 Dec
12pm - 12.45pm
£10 per child, per session
Please note that children need to be accompanied to and from the workshop space but not during the session and you are not required to stay on site. However, you will need to complete an emergency contact form with our DBS checked tutor before the session begins.
Pilates - Intermediate
Led by Zoe Brennan.
Suitable for people with some Pilates experience or those who are looking for a slightly more challenging class. Still covering alignment, breathing and centering but with more focus on strengthening and toning your body. At the end of the class we will take a few moments to relax and unwind.
You will need your own mat.
Tues 6 Sept – 11 Oct (exc 4 Oct), 18 Oct – 22 Nov (exc 25 Oct), 29 Nov – 20 Dec
12pm - 1pm
£12 per class | £60 per 6 week course | £50 per 5 week course | £40 per 4 week course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
If you are taking part online, you will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Painting textures with Ink, Charcoal and Watercolour
Led by Jo Hall
Exciting textures can be made when charcoal and ink are used together. Taking inspiration for subject matter from sheds, derelicts and ancient sites, we’ll add watercolour into the mix and explore granulation and other texturing techniques including the use of sea salt and bubble wrap. An element of collage may be included for additional interest.
Please bring the following materials:
Charcoal, India Ink, pen, watercolour brushes, watercolour paints and palette
Cold pressed watercolour paper weight 300gsm or heavier, cartridge paper or sketchbook
Drawing board, block to tilt the board or table easel
Water pots, masking tape or clips to hold paper, paper towel
Small natural sponge if you have one
Reference will be provided for week 1.
Some paper will be available from the tutor at cost.
Tues 6 Sept - 18 Oct(exc 4 Oct)
12.30pm - 3.30pm
£120 per 6 week course
- 11 Oct
- 18 Oct
Pilates - Beginners
Led by Zoe Brennan.
Suitable for anyone new to Pilates or wishing to improve their flexibility, co-ordination, posture, balance, breathing and focus on stabilising the core. At the end of the class we will take a few moments to relax and unwind.
All abilities are welcome.
You will need your own mat.
Tues 6 Sept – 11 Oct (exc 4 Oct), 18 Oct – 22 Nov (exc 25 Oct), 29 Nov – 20 Dec
1.30pm - 2.30pm
£12 per class | £60 per 6 week course | £50 per 5 week course | £40 per 4 week course
Suitable for 18+ years.
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
If you are taking part online, you will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Acoustic Guitar - Beginners (A)
Led by Richard Lee
Always wanted to learn guitar but never got around to it? Want to trade your air guitar skills for real guitar skills? These are fun and informative lessons from a guitarist with over 20 years’ experience.
Tues 6 Sept - 4 Oct, Tues 11 Oct - 15 Nov (exc 25 Oct), Tues 22 Nov - 20 Dec
7pm - 8pm
£40 per 5 week course
This class will take place both in person and online via Zoom.
You will find the link to access the session in your booking confirmation email
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
- 11 Oct from £40
- 18 Oct
- 8 more dates...
Norden Farm Choir
Led by Rob Castell
A non-audition community choir open to all. Working on everything from Madonna to Les Mis, from gospel to pop - this is an opportunity to meet people, learn some harmonies and sing your hearts out. No experience required. Enthusiasm absolutely necessary!
Tues 20 Sept - 29 Nov (exc 25 Oct)
7.30pm – 9pm
£10 per session | £90 per 10 week term
Norden Farm Summer Choir
Led by Tabitha Beavan
19 Jul - 16 Aug (5 week course) - click here to book
Please prepare for your visit by reading our latest Visitor Information here. This includes important information about face coverings and measures we have implemented to keep everyone safe when visiting Norden Farm.
Japanese Calligraphy Workshop
Led by Eiko Ishida
This workshop is perfect for those who are interested in trying something new and learning traditional Japanese art. Let's spend meditative and self-expressive artsy afternoon together!
During this workshop, we will go over the basics of Japanese calligraphy, including:
How to hold and control the brush
The structure and meaning of Japanese characters
Basic brush techniques
Expressing yourself with the brush and ink
Everybody is welcome – no calligraphy experience or Japanese language skills are necessary
Wed 12 Oct
10am - 1pm
£48
Friday Night Flamenco
Led by Leticia Abella Iglesias
A great way to start the weekend - discover the rhythm and passion of Flamenco! Step into the atmosphere of Andalusia - its movements and music. Start by learning the basic steps and progress through the courses, in a relaxed and fun environment!
Fri 9 Sept - 21 Oct (exc 23 Sept and 7 Oct), Fri 28 Oct - 25 Nov, Fri 2 Dec - 23 Dec
8pm - 9pm
£12 per session | £50 per 5 week course | £40 per 4 week course
Animal Sculpting
Led by Helen D Evans
During the workshop you will be given a demonstration on making a bust of an animal or pet using a paper armature. From this you will develop your own armature and apply clay to it using slabs of clay.
This workshop is suitable for all abilities.
Cost includes clay, use of materials and x 2 firings and application of a clear glaze.
Individuals can arrange a separate session with the tutor if they would like to hand paint their work. Work will be fired to Earthenware.
Sat 15 Oct
11am - 4pm
£65 including materials
Please bring with you:
It is essential that you bring photos or drawings of your chosen animal or pet with you
An apron
Any Pottery tools you may have
Sketchbook
Pens / Pencils
Zumba (Saturdays)
Led by Annet Bowler
Zumba with Annet is a fun, easy to follow, dance based class. Get fit and exercise in disguise to uplifting Latin rhythms!
This 60 minute class feels more than a party that exercise class. It suits all levels of ability and beginners are very welcome.
Zumba is a total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility.
It can help make you feel happy, healthy, strong, amazing, unstoppable and confident!
Sat 10 Sept - 24 Sept
11.30am – 12.30pm
£6 per class
Classes on Saturday 1 October, 26 November and 3 December will be led by Carla Leech
Suitable for ages 18+ years.
Floral Design Workshop
Led by Kim Wright
This floral design course is for those who are new to floral design as well as those with some experience. I will guide the learners with demonstrations followed by practical work which will give them the confidence to develop their own floral designs each week. They will be shown how to prepare flowers and foliage, how to create gifts and how to decorate a party, home or just for a pleasure.
Additional Information
Please note that the materials are not provided. Learners will need to bring their own Floristry materials such as flowers, foliage, scissors, containers and some other materials each session to be able to create their own floral design. I will advise them each month.
Wed 14 Sept 11am - 1pm
Wed 19 Oct 7pm - 9pm
Wed 16 Nov 11am - 1pm
Wed 14 Dec 7pm - 9pm
£32 per session
Book Club
Share your thoughts on contemporary fiction with other readers in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere.
This season the Book Club will be reading
29 Sept - Lessons in Chemistry by Miranda Cowley
20 Oct - The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
10 Nov - Girl, Woman, Other by Bernadine Evaristo
15 Dec - The Bottle Factory Outing by Beryl Bainbridge
Suitable for 18+ years.
Spaces are limited, early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.
29 Sept, 20 Oct, 10 Nov, 15 Dec
7.30pm – 9.30pm
£5 per session (includes a glass of wine or soft drink from the bar)
Please prepare for your visit by reading our latest Visitor Information here. This includes important information about face coverings and measures we have implemented to keep everyone safe when visiting Norden Farm.
Mindfulness
Led by Kate Hughes
Join Kate Hughes of Kate Hughes Meditation for an hour of mindfulness, designed to promote calm and awareness.
During the session we will explore breathing techniques, different kinds of meditation, and various mindfulness exercises including some gentle movement (this can be adapted to suit all mobility levels).
No experience of meditation or mindfulness is required, and these sessions are suitable for you if you are an absolute beginner or have done some kind of mindfulness practice before.
Please wear comfortable clothing. The session will end with a relaxation exercise and you may wish to bring your own mat and blanket, although these will be provided.
Fri 23 Sept, 21 Oct, 25 Nov, 16 Dec
7.30pm – 8.30pm
£12 per session
Jewellery Embroidery Workshop
Led by Aliona Borysenko
Welcome to the world of embroidery!
This jewellery embroidery workshop is for beginners who are new to embroidery with different materials, as well as those with some experience in embroidery with threads.
During the workshop you will practice different embroidery techniques, which will give you the confidence to create and your own embroidery designs.
In the September and October workshop's we will create bumblebee embroidery using different materials and techniques.
You will be shown how to embroider with materials such as: beads, crystals, sequins, chenille, metallic threads, bugles and other materials. You may choose to decorate your clothes and your children's clothes with the embroidery you create, or you may choose to complete your embroidery into a brooch.
Sat 24 Sept and Sat 22 Oct
11am - 4pm
£70 per workshop
Materials and instruments for one bumblebee will be provided. Participants are very welcome to bring their clothes or that they would like to decorate with.
About Aliona Borysenko:
Aliona came from Ukraine where she taught at a leading Jewellery Design School. She began sharing her knowledges in workshops and courses 12 years ago. Whilst in Ukraine, she has worked with Swarovski and Preciosa and has created designs for the likes of Coca Cola, Schwarzkopf, L’Oréal and Windows to name a few. Aliona is exited to offer embroidery workshops for beginners at Norden Farm. She also works within schools and runs workshops for children.
In the Window, Through the Window
Led by Jo Hall
Many artists have taken inspiration from windows and views through them. This course will reference some of these, providing ideas for your own compositions. Reference material will be provided by the tutor and you will also be encouraged to work from your own sketches or photos.
Please bring drawing materials and either pastels or watercolours as outlined in the information below:
Watercolour paints, brushes, palette and water potsor pastels
Watercolour (cold pressed, 300gsm) or pastel paper (at least A3 size)
Cartridge paper or sketchbook
Table easel (best for pastel) or block to tilt board will be fine for watercolour
Drawing board, paper towel, tape or clips to attach paper
Some paper will be available from the tutor
Reference for the first week will be supplied and you will be encouraged to bring your own for subsequent weeks. It is always best to work from your own sketches and photos.
Tues Oct 25 - Nov 29
12.30pm - 3.30pm
£120 per 6 week course
Zen Drawing (online)
Led by Amanda Schenk
Amanda Schenk is the visual artist behind Norden Farm's much-loved (and Instagrammed) glass corridor artwork in the school holidays. Join Amanda for this new drawing course, aimed at helping to create a sense of calm and relaxation through drawing patterns.
Suitable for all abilities, the workshops will focus on building confidence in your drawing abilities - concentrating on the soothing journey of the drawing experience, rather than the finished drawing.
In each session you'll explore how to produce different types of patterns in abstract drawings - looking at different designs each week.
You will need: paper (plain, no smaller than A5), lead pencil, eraser, sharpener, black fine liner or a pen. Optional is a black marker.
Tues 6 Sept, 4 Oct, 1 Nov, 6 Dec
7.30pm - 8.45pm (online only)
£8 per class | £28 per 4 week course | £21 per 3 week course
Suitable for ages 18+ years
Please prepare for your visit by reading our latest Visitor Information here. This includes important information about face coverings and measures we have implemented to keep everyone safe when visiting Norden Farm.
Portrait Drawing
Led by Mick McNicholas
Learn about the stages of portraiture, drawing with charcoal from a live model.
Suitable for all levels of experience.
Suitable for 18+ years
Sat 17 Sept and 5 Nov
11am – 4pm
£34
Creative Mindfulness For Children (Aged 12 - 15 years)
Led by Stella Chenery
Participants will learn to:
• Recognise and acknowledge feelings
• Create healthy coping strategies for their emotions, stresses and anxieties
• Slow down the busy mind and improve focus & concentration
• Cultivate compassion for others & kindness for themselves
• Boost confidence and self esteem
• Build positive relationships with others
• Bring mindfulness into their everyday lives
Through the use of mindfulness techniques, meditations, discussion, creative activities and art. Art ability is not important - all activities are focused on the process of creating as a mindful and relaxing practise rather than the end result.
Suitable for ages 12 - 15 years.
Sat 10 Sept, 8 Oct, 5 Nov, 17 Dec
1pm - 2pm
£10 per child, per session
Please note that children need to be accompanied to and from the workshop space but not during the session and you are not required to stay on site. However, you will need to complete an emergency contact form with our DBS checked tutor before the session begins.
Japanese Calligraphy Autumn Workshop
Led by Eiko Ishida
Autumn is for the Arts in Japan. The beautiful changing leaves are said to serve as an inspiration to artists in Japan, and it is a great time to try new art as a beginner. You will learn and practice basic Japanese calligraphy skills, meditative calligraphy processes and finding the balance between the mind and body.
In this workshop you will be shown the basic principles of writing Japanese characters; using the traditional Japanese materials of a brush, ink and Japanese paper. You will be guided how to create your first brush strokes and how to build on these basic steps to create some lovely Japanese characters symbolising the turn of the seasons.
Please wear dark colours or old clothes (or wear an apron) as occasionally ink can spill or spread.
Materials of a brush (on loan), ink and some Japanese paper will be supplied, however you will need some extra paper to practice on; absorbent paper is best such as newspaper or sugar paper.
Thur 10 Nov 11am - 2pm
£48
Make and decorate a 4 piece dinner set
Led by Helen D Evans
During the workshop you will be given the opportunity to make a dinner plate, side plate, bowl and a cup or mug using various hand building techniques.
You will explore surface decoration by embellishing your work with a design to produce a unique hand made dinner set.
Cost includes clay, use of materials and x 2 firings and application of a clear glaze. Work will be fired to Earthenware.
This workshop is suitable for all abilities.
Sat 12 Nov
11am - 4pm
£65 including materials
Please bring with you:
An apron
Any Pottery tools you may have
Sketchbook for ideas / with ideas
Pens / Pencils
Lantern Making Workshops
Led by Same Sky
Across two hours, weave an intricate animal-inspired willow frame before covering and decorating your creation.
Sat 19 Nov | 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £7 per person
Sat 26 Nov | 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 4pm | Suitable for 6+ years | £7 per person
Sat 3 Dec | 10.30am – 12.30pm and 2pm – 4pm | Adult sessions 17+ years | £17.50 per person
There will also be lantern making sessions at Maidenhead Library on Sat 10 Dec, timings to be announced.
Find out more about this year's Lantern Parade here.
Tickets from £7 per person
Pre-booking essential
Taking place at Norden Farm
Draw a Tree on large paper
Led by Jo Hall
Working with chunky drawing materials graphite, charcoal or tinted versions of these, draw a tree or group of trees on white or toned A2 paper, or larger.
You may also work in earth colours of conte crayon and bring less chunky versions of the same materials for finishing touches or texture details.
Photo reference will be provided or bring your own.
Materials - please bring the following:
White cartridge paper or toned paper suitable for pastel - A2 would be ideal
Drawing board, clips or tape to hold paper
Any of the following (a great opportunity to use chunky tinted charcoal or tinted graphite blocks): Charcoal, graphite sticks, chunky coloured graphite, chunky tinted charcoal, conte crayon in black, sepia or sanguine, white chalk if using toned or black paper. You don’t need them all, just bring what you have. You may bring smaller sticks or pencil forms of any of the above for fine detail.
Paper towel, blending tools (stumps, torchons etc useful but not essential)
White A2 cartridge paper will be available at cost.
Some chunky materials will be available for you to try at the session.
Sat 19 Nov
11am - 4pm
£40
Life Drawing
Led by Mick McNicholas
Explore the complexities of the human form by working from a professional life model. With a variety of short and long poses. Learn both traditional charcoal drawing methods and new experimental techniques.
Half day sessions comprise of a variety of short and long poses.
Any mediums can be used in these sessions. Materials will be provided, although participants are very welcome to bring their own if you have something you like to work with.
Sat 1 Oct and 3 Dec
11am - 2pm
£25 per session
Suitable for 18+ years
Japanese Calligraphy Festive Workshop
Led by Eiko Ishida
Before heading to the party, come and learn the art of Japanese calligraphy this holiday season - you can use those new-found skills to create handwritten holiday messages that can be given as or cards with an origami Christmas tree for decoration.
In this workshop you will be shown the basic principles of writing Japanese characters; using the traditional Japanese materials of a brush, ink and Japanese paper. You will be guided how to create your first brush strokes and how to build on these basic steps to create some lovely Japanese characters symbolising the turn of the seasons.
Please wear dark colours or old clothes (or wear an apron) as occasionally ink can spill or spread.
Materials of a brush (on loan), ink and some Japanese paper will be supplied, however you will need some extra paper to practice on; absorbent paper is best such as newspaper or sugar paper.
Wed 7 Dec
10am - 1pm
£48
Paint a Bird on Small Paper in watercolour or gouache
Led by Jo Hall
Paint a blackbird or a cheeky robin or other small bird on white or tinted paper.
Gouache is particularly useful for working on coloured papers but watercolour and a tube of permanent white gouache will work just as well.
We will be painting on paper as small as three by four inches up to about five by seven inches or similar size square formats.
Some photo reference will be provided or bring your own.
Please bring the following
Watercolours pan or tube, brushes, palette, water pots, paper towel, small sponge, pencil
Drawing board, block of wood about 2 x 2 x 6 inches to tilt the board (may be better than a table easel for this workshop), masking tape
Watercolour paper - hot or cold pressed surface and about 300gsm, or small Khadi paper
If you are bringing quarter size watercolour paper or A3 please bring a 12 inch ruler to mark out the painting areas.
There is no need to purchase small papers especially for the workshop.
Spare paper or small sketchbook for composition sketches
Some paper will be available at cost from the tutor including some handmade Indian paper (Khadi). Additional photo reference will also be available.
Sat 10 Dec
11am - 4pm
£40
Struggles for Freedom: African American History from the 17th to 20th Century (Live Streaming)
Presented by WEA Maidenhead and Oxford University Department for Continuing Education (OUDCE)
Ruth Percy examines African Americans’ experiences both as enslaved and free peoples as they struggled for freedom and equality.
Programme
10.15am Slavery in North America from 1619
11.40am How Enslaved People resisted Slavery
1.40pm Why Emancipation didn’t bring Freedom
3pm The Civil Rights Struggles in the 20th Century
Please contact Steph Diggon (weamhead@gmail.com or Tel: 01628 563676) for reading list and powerpoint presentation.
Dr Ruth Percy is a Historian of Modern Britain and the United States at St Hilda’s College, University of Oxford.
Live stream from the Courtyard Theatre £40 per household
Moonrakers Folk Orchestra Acoustic Workshop
Moonrakers each year run a series of Folk Orchestra workshops across the country.
They are for intermediate instrumentalists who wish to develop skills in arranging and playing folk tunes and songs in an ensemble.
Jon Bennett (guitar, ukulele, bouzouki, whistles), Jacqui Johnson (cello, fiddle, keyboard) and Becki Luff (harp, keyboard) have many years’ experience conducting workshops at Benslow Music, Halsway Manor and at several festivals.
They work through a number of tunes and songs, inviting you to suggest arrangement ideas yourself. Music (with chords, countermelody and bass) will be sent out in advance along with a video of each tune played at medium pace for those who learn by ear. Above all, it’s a rare opportunity to play with a multi-instrumental and welcoming group.
Sat 11 Feb
11am - 4.30pm
£60
Book tickets for the band's evening gig here.
Please note we are a busy arts centre and the spaces for our classes do move around the site from time to time