I would like to tell you about the highly successful stone carving workshops I have been running for 5 years in Gloucestershire.

Drawing on my training and experience as a master craftsperson and apprentice master, some time ago I decided to offer the experience, once only available to craftspeople, to the public.  

These workshops were open to all initially but, on reviewing the feedback, it soon became apparent that those students experiencing complex social needs affecting their wellbeing, loneliness, social isolation or low level mental health issues seemed to be the groups that got the most from our sessions.

I have been training people since 1995 and in this time, I have worked with a diverse range of individuals, including those experiencing subclinical depression, autism spectrum conditions, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and substance-use disorder.  

Through my craft training sessions, I have also been able to support the personal development and rehabilitation of ex-offenders and ex service personnel with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD),

I knew of the benefits for those in long-term training, but over the years I have been amazed at the feedback I have had regarding the support this style of training has offered to those taking short courses.

Working and learning within a craft tradition and culture can ease and help prevent subclinical depression, as I have come to understand through the feedback I receive from my workshops with the public. For instance, here is an example of some feedback shared with me by a man from my over 50's group.

“(I) have been surprised at what I can achieve under expert mentoring - and the benefits go well beyond a developing skill set.  For me, there has been a significant mental health benefit.  This has become a great aid to combating the depression that came with retirement and I look forward to my weekly session in the workshop".

Some of the Benefits

Research shows that engaging in regular craft activities can have significant mental health benefits, including: -

Enhanced Cognitive Functions: Regular physical activity and creative expression have been linked to improved memory, cognitive abilities, and a reduced risk of cognitive decline. 

Social Interaction: Craft workshops provide opportunities for social connections, crucial for combating loneliness and isolation, particularly in middle and older age. 

Creativity and Emotional Well-Being: The hands-on nature of crafting can induce a “flow state,” offering therapeutic benefits and enhancing confidence and motivation among participants. 

My courses offer a safe, friendly environment and are well suited to social prescribing initiatives and community referrals.

I provide workshops from my studio in Gloucestershire but can also come to other locations with everything necessary for a stone carving session. I can offer courses in: Southwest England, London, South Wales and Ireland.

Please let me know if you require more information or would like to discuss the opportunities further.

Thank you for your time.

Stephen

I list below a selection of the feedback that has been shared with me.

“Very productive day learning Stone Carving Skills at beginner level. Course pitched right

to gain some fundamental skills and take away a piece

that demonstrates that successfully. Many thanks.

- Jim Stankard

—

“A very enjoyable day. Master Stephen's instruction was delivered in a manner that

encouraged the pupil, offering demonstration on the pupils' piece only when needed.

The piece that we cut was just enough to fill the time and Master Stephen paced it well.

- A. Witter”

—

“An excellent experience in a day.

Stephen helped us create our own Masterpieces whilst telling fascinating tales relating to

the stonemason's craft their history and their place in history.

A really big thank you”

—-

“Thank you very much for a great day - so pleased with my creation - and the time just flew by.  Appreciate the stonemason's skill even more now”

- Steve

“Really enjoyed the stone day with Stephen feel very privileged to be taught by him!

fascinating wider history and insights about the craft of stone masonry.

Very pleased with my piece.

Would recommend it and would love to come again.

Thank you, Stephen!”

—

“Had a fantastic time.  Stephen was a delightful tutor, helpful and informative. The whole

experience was rewarding and good humoured, regardless of ability. Many thanks”  

- Stephen Ber

—

“Learned so many skills.  An amazing three days with a wonderfully generous teacher who

gave insights into the craft of stone carving.  A lifetime of knowledge and skill was made

available, allowing from total novice to be able to produce a piece of work to be proud of

and the skills to take away which could be confidently repeated at home.  Five/five stars all

gold. Many thanks”

- Susannah

—

The time flew- enjoyed working

with stone far more than I thought I would.

will recommend the day to everyone

—

“Fantastic day, didn't think I would be able to do it,

but with great tuition, and for great history enjoyed the day so much thank you so much”

- Sam Adams