Permaculture Design Course (FETAC Level 5) at Cloughjordan Ecovillage

Course details

This FETAC L5 accredited Permaculture Design Course* provides participants with a balanced combination of theory and outdoor practical place-based learning. The course emphasises both ecological and social permaculture covering topics such as perennial plants, agro-forestry, soil health and new ways of thinking about land management. A lively, participatory and thought-provoking experience is guaranteed.

What is permaculture?

The word 'permaculture' comes from 'permanent agriculture' and 'permanent culture'. Permaculture applied to farming and gardening promotes organic methods of managing land in such a way as to increase soil carbon, protect and enrich the soil and boost biopersity. Applied to society and 'culture' it supports communities in becoming more resilient. The essence of permaculture is the design of an ecologically sound way of living - in our households, gardens, communities and businesses - and cooperating with nature and caring for the earth and its people.

Rather than a discipline, Permaculture presents us with a set of design principles derived from the observation of natural ecosystems. These principles are then used to develop integrated systems that provide for our needs of food, shelter, energy and community in ways that are healthy and efficient. We can use permaculture design methods to improve the quality and productivity of our individual lives, our society and our environment.

Who should take this course?

This course is for anyone interested in learning how Permaculture Design can be applied to their farms, gardens, homes, lifestyles, communities, etc. Open to anyone aged 16 or over. No prior knowledge of permaculture is needed.

Unique setting

The Ecovillage includes over 50 high energy performance houses on a 67-acre estate. The land is zoned for food growing, community woodlands, renewable energy production, with a district heating system, a wood-fired bakery, research gardens and Cloughjordan Community Farm.

The course will be held in the brand new WeCreate Enterprise Centre, which along with meeting rooms, classrooms and a co-working space, will feature a community fabrication laboratory. This setting provides participants with an opportunity to see many key sustainable systems in working practice.