Learn how to create practical, effective shelters in outdoor spaces using tarpaulins, ropes and knots.

Join Field Studies Ireland for a practical introduction to tarps, shelters and knots, exploring simple and effective ways to create shelter and comfortable learning spaces in outdoor environments.

This fully outdoor course focuses on developing personal confidence, knowledge and practical skills in selecting, erecting and managing tarpaulin shelters, using a range of knots, ropes and techniques suitable for different environments and weather conditions.

Living and working on an island known for its rain, our ability to create effective shelter can make a significant difference to outdoor experiences. Participants will explore how simple and affordable equipment can be used to create sheltered spaces for education, recreation and community activities.

Through practical, hands-on experiences, participants will experiment with different shelter designs, knots, materials and approaches, developing their understanding of site selection, weather considerations, safe setup and practical problem-solving.

The emphasis is on developing simple, reliable and transferable skills that participants can confidently replicate in their own outdoor environments, without the need for expensive or specialist equipment.

There is some overlap with our ‘Intro: Nature Skills’ course, particularly in knot tying and shelter building. However, this workshop explores these subjects in greater depth, with additional time dedicated to developing and practising techniques. Repetition and continued practice are encouraged, helping participants build confidence and competence in applying these skills independently.

Field Studies Ireland is a not-for-profit organisation specialising in Outdoor Education. Our expertise lies in using Outdoor Education as a methodology across a wide range of subjects, settings and environments, placing us in a unique position to deliver practical, meaningful training. We exist to empower access to Outdoor Education, helping people and organisations bring what they do outdoors, for the benefit of education, development and wellbeing.

Who is this course for?

This introductory course is suitable for adults wishing to develop practical shelter building and knot tying skills for the first time, and anyone interested in refreshing or developing their existing knowledge.

It is particularly relevant to teachers, educators, youth workers, volunteers, outdoor leaders, environmental professionals and others wishing to create practical, sheltered spaces for learning and activities outdoors. No previous experience is required.

What to expect

Expect a friendly, practical and engaging learning experience, delivered entirely outdoors by Mark O’Connor, founder of Field Studies Ireland.

Participants will spend the course learning and practising a range of knots, shelter designs and tarpaulin techniques, supported by demonstrations, shared experiences and opportunities to experiment with different approaches. The emphasis is on practical skills that can be easily replicated in participants' own environments.

This course complements our wider Nature Skills training programme and provides an opportunity to strengthen practical competence and confidence in working outdoors.

Group Training

Field Studies Ireland regularly delivers this training directly to organisations, teams and community groups, often within their own local outdoor environments. The courses advertised here are intended for individuals or small groups wishing to join scheduled training.

If you would like to arrange training for your own group, please contact Field Studies Ireland to discuss your requirements. bookings@fieldstudies.ie

Description supplied by the event organiser.