I had a fantastic day ... and with zero experience I came away with a bowl (and a lid)! I'd not have thought it possible from a standing start and it is entirely down to Jake. He is a great tutor and provided the perfect mix of direction, encouragement, fun and technical info. It's a brilliant hands on course and I can definitely and wholeheartedly recommend it!

This is a fantastic course for anyone looking to get their first woodworking experience. Rather than working in a large workshop that you can never imagine in your own garden, Jake's course is in his personal workshop and it makes you feel like you could get there too one day. If you want to understand the first principles of taking a piece of wood and transforming it into something stylish and elegant, then this is for you. It is 1:1 so you can learn as fast or as slow as you like. It isn't all handtools and traditional approaches so if, like me, you want to make the most from tools and machinery then Jake will show you how to, both safely and efficiently. Jake is enthusiastic and encouraging as well as being a great person to talk to. I cannot recommend this course enough, it is fantastic and I am so glad I found it. Alex D

I went on a course with Jake at Thompson's wood. I would highly recommend it to anyone who has any interest in woodworking or turning. Jake was knowledgeable and friendly and was able to guide me through turning my first bowl. Had such a good day, made a beautiful keepsake and learned loads in the process. Thanks Jake!

Jake's a good egg. Well humoured and easy going. I had a great time learning more about woodwork and joinery on the cabinetry course. I keep looking at the table thinking "really? That happened?" Quality time. Makes a decent brew too! The 1 on 1 style is perfectly suited and the space he teaches in is a great example of what's possible. The world needs more like him. Cheers!

We needed some shelving units and cupboards putting up in our lounge, and someone had let us down just before Christmas. Jake was recommended to us, and we couldn't have been more accommodating and well skilled. He came over within a couple of days of contacting him, and did a superb job before the Christmas socialising began. He really listened to what we needed and it was a perfect job. He's a lovely, lovely guy to chat too and really interesting! Thanks Jake, we can't recommend you enough.