Apprenticeship
A unique approach to herbal education
Phytofarm has been developed over the last eight years by herbalist and naturopath Valmai Becker as a repository of plants and learning centre. The gardens, manufacturing and drying sheds have been purpose built to provide a practical learning experience in herbal medicine.
The apprenticeship is a one year programme and offers a thorough instruction in the growing, harvesting, processing and manufacture of a wide range of herbal products. Students in the programme are encouraged to develop and explore personal areas of special interest and build confidence with medicinal plants that grow easily.
The four seasons are celebrated with the students from discovering culinary herbal delights of the spring garden, to exploring the abundance of the summer garden and blending quality products from the drying room during the autumn and winter seasons.
Hands-on learning
The apprenticeship is open to anyone who has an interest and passion for learning about medicinal plants. This is a practical learning experience and will at times be physically demanding so it is essential that students are physically fit and be mentally prepared to work and study. There will be 224 hours of instruction, 32 days, with 8 days for each season. There will be 100 hours of home study, 25 hours to be completed at the end of each season. On successful completion of the apprenticeship the participants will be awarded a Phytofarm Certificate in Herbal Apprenticeship.
Tutors
Valmai has had many years of experience in graduating students into the healing profession, gardening projects, and has been successful in the management of four businesses that reflect her enthusiasm and love all things natural.
Supporting tutors:Isla Burgess is an inspiring teacher in herbal medicine who will use the garden and wild pasture as a resource for plant-centred learning. (20 hours)
Nicola Sorrel has completed a Certificate in Organic Horticulture at the Lincoln Biological Husbandry Unit (BHU) in Canterbury. In line with the seasonal approach of the apprenticeship she will teach the nurturing of soil, plants and garden management. (8 hours)
Hours:324 Cost per yr:$4,400 inc gst
Includes: all tutoring, materials, ingredients, and course manuals for each season detailing all recipes and resources. An option to pay separately for each season is available for $1,220 (due one month prior to commencement). A tasty Phytofarm lunch will be provided on attendance days. Accommodation in Little River is in addition and optional.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE APPLICATION FORM
