What is Bushcraft?

Bushcraft is a term used to describe skills that allow us to live comfortably in the natural world, using natural resources in a responsible and sustainable manner. These skills were second nature to our ancestors, although many indigenous tribes and backwoodsmen still use these skills today.

A journey towards a full understanding of bushcraft is not mere sentimentality; rather it is an empowering tool which allows us to reconnect with our roots and the natural world around us.

Bushcraft is a long-term extension of survival skills; it is about surviving and thriving in the natural environment and the acquisition of skills and knowledge to do so. Bushcraft skills include: firecraft, tracking, shelter building, the use of tools such as knives and axes, foraging, hand-carving wood, container construction from natural materials, rope and twine-making and many others.

This modern form of bushcraft encompasses much more than just a collection of survival skills. Primitive skills and technologies can be of great importance and are seen in bushcraft as great achievements.

The respect gained for our unknown ancestors in the acquisition of these skills can be an important part of bushcraft. Regarding respect and understanding, one thread of bushcraft is also concerned with respect and understanding of the natural world, its flora and fauna and the way these elements interact.

In teaching basic bushcraft to children we are imparting an understanding of, and respect for, our world, the changing environment, other cultures and each other - it's also great fun!