Overview

These Masterclasses are designed for those who wish to deepen their knowledge and understanding of the key agricultural and food issues of our time:

Biodiversity and ecosystem restoration

Climate change and how soils can sequester carbon

How nurturing a living soil improves the quality of the crops we grow and the food we eat

Food waste along from farm to plate

Food fermentation

The origins and practice of biodynamic farming

Is agro-forestry a game changer

And much more…

These are family events designed to get everyone involved and have a day on our Zerodig farm at Oakbrook just outside Stroud.  The content is accessible for everyone who is interested.

We are limited by space a little and each Masterclass is limited to a maximum of 20 participants (a mixed-ability audience: young and all alike from all backgrounds).

The emphasis is on inclusivity, theory blended with hands-on practice.

Timing and length: Saturday mornings from March to November each year for about three hours from 9:30 a.m.  Each Masterclass is completed by a light Zerodig lunch using some of our produce in season.

Session content:

• ½ to 1 hour theory (indoor/classroom-style, adaptable for accessibility)
• 2 to 2½ hours practical (outdoors on Zerodig farm at Oakbrook, Stroud)

Key features: 

Masterclass days are showcase days facilitated by a range of experts in their field.  The focus is on a greater understanding and appreciation of the Zerodig farm-to-table experience.  The Masterclass theme is designed to reconnect people with how their food is produced its impact on the environment and how good farming based on living soils can produce a truly delicious and nutritious experience.

Soil → Harvest → Plate

Each Masterclass starts with an expert talk with plenty of time for discussion. This is followed by some practical hands-on experience spending time working alongside the growers, learning about regenerative farming and harvesting straight from the field and with further opportunity to discuss the Masterclass theme.

Then we move from soil to kitchen, where chef Max hosts a live cooking demonstration turning the day’s harvest into something delicious.

This is a relaxed, friendly and practical experience — perfect for anyone curious about sustainable food, seasonal cooking, or life on a working farm.

By the end of the day, you’ll leave with new knowledge, fresh inspiration and a taste of real food from Zerodig.

Each Masterclass has a very limited number of spaces available.

Masterclasses for 2026

Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Practical bits:

Please wear / bring:

• Comfortable outdoor clothes you don’t mind getting muddy
• Waterproof jacket (for when it’s wet)
• Warm layers (for when it’s cold)
• Sun hat and sun screen (for when it’s sunny)
• Sturdy shoes or boots suitable for uneven ground
• Reusable water bottle
• Pencil and eraser
• Empty mid-sized jam jar with lid (March)
• Phone with camera

FAQs:

Do I need farming experience?
No — everything is guided and beginner-friendly.

What happens if I can’t make a day?
Many of the theory elements are online and are recorded for you to benefit from at your convenience. You will miss the hands-on practical elements though.

What happens if it rains?
The event runs in most weather — please dress accordingly. There is indoor space for many of the theory and discussion events.

Is the event suitable for children?
Yes — children are welcome. Please note the farm has tools, uneven ground and active working areas, so children must be supervised at all times.

How to Get to the Farm

ZeroDig at Oakbrook Farm What3Words: w3w.co/snacks.shift.currently

By Foot

Approximately 25 minutes (0.9 miles) from Stroud Station, mostly on footpaths through farmland. Download pdf map here.

By Car

From London Approx. 2 hours Route: M4 → A419 → Stroud

From Birmingham Approx. 1–1.5 hours Route: M5 → A419 → Stroud

Free parking is available on-site. Car sharing is encouraged where possible.

Use the What3Words link above for the most accurate final directions.

By Train

The nearest station is Stroud Station.

Typical journey times

• London Paddington → Stroud: ~1 hr 30 min (direct trains)
• Birmingham → Stroud: ~1 hr 30–2 hrs (usually via Cheltenham Spa or Gloucester)

By taxi from Stroud station

1. Exit Stroud Station
2. Walk to the taxi rank on King Street (2–3 minute walk from the station)
3. Taxi journey to the farm: 5-10 minutes

Local taxi companies:

• Five Valleys Taxis: 01453 764000
• Amber Cars Stroud: 01453 757575

We recommend booking a return taxi in advance where possible.

Apply