What will I learn?

This course aims to cover all aspects of a self- build van conversion. Starting from the early stages of preparation, planning and design, right through to an in depth look at each stage of the build process.

Gaining tips & tricks on topics like windows and vents, insulation, carpentry, furniture and much more from someone who’s been through it all. This course will give you the knowledge to kick start your vanlife dreams…

Cutting - How to use a handsaw

Measuring and marking

Identifying Woods

Screws - how to choose the right screw for the job

Drilling - How to use a drill and the appropriate drill bits

Finishing and sanding

Objectives learnt from the course:

Purchasing and insuring the right van.

Designing your dream camper

Budgeting for a van conversion

Planning/preparing for a van conversion

The stages of the build

Prep work

Windows/ vents

Insulation

Wiring/ conduit

Cladding

Floor

Duration

5 hours with a 30 minute lunch break. 10am - 3pm. Tea and coffee breaks are optional. Please bring lunch with you.

Where is the course run?

Leeds Wood Recycling Warehouse, Unit 6, 24 Croydon Street, Holbeck, Leeds, LS11 9RT

What skill level should I be?

The course is designed to teach absolute beginners and those with some experience. We teach the fundamental skills, techniques & principals of converting your own van.

Who is the tutor?

The course is led by Brad Allsop, a Northumbria architecture graduate. He is also a graduate from the Prince's Foundation “Building craft programme”. He has a wealth of experience ranging from eco builds, to narrowboat installations alongside converting a number of vans himself.

What do I need to bring?

All tools are supplied. Please wear clothes suitable for dusty work and sensible shoes. We provide the hot drinks and biscuits for the break. Please bring warm clothing – we recommend you bring layers – it can be cold in our workshop even in summer.. It's also a good idea to bring a notepad and pencil so you can make notes!

What about COVID?

LWR takes COVID procedures very seriously and every care has been taken to keep risk at a minimal level, whilst allowing people to keep connected and learn in a safe environment. With that in mind we are keeping class sizes to a maximum of 8. We still ask everyone to wear a mask unless you are exempt from doing so. We constantly review the government guidance and will keep participants in the conversation if situations change.

Where can I park my car or bike?

There is free car parking opposite LWR (it’s free to use for LWR participants.) You're welcome to bring your bike in the warehouse to keep it safe.

What else is included

Another main aim of this course is to empower people to be able to complete their own jobs or projects at home and give them confidence in their own woodworking ability. We want to make people comfortable using timber yards, tool suppliers and places such as Leeds Wood Recycling

A small note

Leeds Wood Recycling is a social enterprise and not-for-profit organisation, so it’s good to know that by enrolling on a course with us you are supporting your local community. We offer upto 2 free places per course as a thank you to our long-term volunteers and members of staff. This experience gives people who are maginalised from the job training market free experience and training which can help them develop and make positive changes in their lives. We promise to continue diverting wood waste from landfill and continue to support marginalised individuals creating a supportive community.

Please note it’s a stipulation of our insurance that participants must be 18 and over

For cancellation and refund information please see our full terms and conditions.

These can be found at:

https://www.leedswoodrecycling.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/LWR-TERMS-AND-CONDITIONS-COURSES.pdf