Class Timetable

Our classes have been designed to cater for students with varied levels of woodwork skills. There are no formal qualifications to qualify for enrolment. However, students who have completed our fixed project class are typically better prepared as they have been introduced to several woodworking techniques and machine use. See the note regarding beginners below.

Class sizes are limited to a maximum of 12 to ensure personalised attention. This allows tutors to provide tailored guidance to each student. Open classes are typically supervised by a teacher and an assistant. Typically, our assistants are very highly skilled woodworkers themselves.

The school runs 10 weekly classes of 3hrs duration each term and there are 4 terms each year, which roughly coincide with school holidays. Note that we typically do not break for public holidays due to a lack of capacity for catch-up classes.

Absolutely. We cater to all skill levels from novices who want to learn basic techniques to professionals who are seeking to refine their craft. We recommend that beginners participate in the fixed project class which is designed to introduce them to a variety of techniques and gain familiarity with woodworking machines, tools and techniques.  

However, if the Fixed Project Class is full, our tutors regularly welcome first-time woodworkers into the Open Classes, where beginners are well supported in a more flexible, less structured environment. 

In Open Classes, students choose their own projects and receive expert guidance from our experienced master woodworkers. Our skilled teachers and well-equipped workshop make it possible to explore a wide range of woodworking techniques and creations. If you’re unsure where to start, your tutor can suggest suitable introductory projects.

The main limitation is scale. We do not have capacity for students to make large pieces such as large dining tables, doors or other large cabinetry pieces such as island benches or the like. This is primarily due to the limitations of storage, but also due to impracticalities of working and moving such large pieces in a busy classroom and workshop.  

We encourage you to treat the school as a learning environment and choose to make a piece that you will learn the most from – the goal is not necessarily the finished product, but the joy of gaining new skills.

Other limitations include the use of unusual materials not typically associated with woodworking which may cause noxious dust or damage the machines. 

Recycled timber can only be used if sourced from a reputable commercial recycled timber dealer who has confirmed the timber has been completely denailed. Recycled hardwood supplied by students from other sources is typically not allowed due to the risk of damage to blades and machinery.

Yes, absolutely. If you bring a rough sketch or some basic dimensions, that’s a great place to start. Our tutors can work with you to explore the best way to approach your project, offering guidance on design, materials, techniques, and how to make it achievable within the course timeframe or provide an estimate on how long it might take. You don’t need to have all the answers—just bring your idea and we’ll help you shape it into something you can build.   

Just keep in mind that tutors support the whole class, so while they’ll show you how to do something and help get you on the right track, you’ll also be expected to work with a bit of independence as you go. It’s all part of building your confidence and hands-on skills. 

At your first class, you’ll be welcomed and inducted into the space by your tutor. While returning students get started on their ongoing projects, your tutor will meet with you to discuss your project idea, help plan what timber you will need and advise where to source it. 

You’ll usually begin building in your second week once you’ve gathered your materials. If you already have woodworking experience and suitable timber, you may be able to start sooner—but your tutor will still need to review your project and materials to make sure they’re a good fit. Please note, tutors support all students in the class, so you may need to be patient during this initial session.

At the start of the course, tutors will help you plan a project that is achievable within 10 weeks—but quality takes time, and detailed or more complex builds may take longer. Many students return for multiple terms to complete ambitious projects (and often build lasting friendships along the way). Returning students are given early access before enrolments open to the public. 

If you only plan to do one term, let your tutor know at the outset so that they can guide you accordingly. If you are not returning, you will need to take your project home at the end of the course. 

Generally speaking, we are unable to provide make-up classes for missed classes, even if the reasons are outside of your control. This is primarily due to safety considerations as we want to ensure a safe teacher-to-student ratio. On occasion, if another class is not full, we may be able to accommodate extra students for make-up classes – this is handled on a case-by-case basis.

Tools and equipment are provided. The school has a very well-equipped workshop with modern machinery, and access to all key woodworking hand tools such as drills, jigsaws, Domino machine and the like.  

We are well equipped with traditional hand tools such as hand planes, chisels and marking tools. The school also supplies consumables such as glue, sandpaper, timber filler and protective equipment.  

Students are responsible for purchasing and transporting their own timber, hardware and finishes. Our tutors will provide guidance on item selection and places to purchase it.

Safety is paramount. Students receive an induction on safe machine operation and are supervised when using machines. Students must bring appropriate protective clothing and footwear. Open-toed shoes are not permitted, jewellery must be removed, and hair must be tied back.

Fees are $1,070 per term including GST. Payments are accepted via VISA, Mastercard or direct debit (we do not accept American Express).

No, this course is designed for hobbyists and amateur woodworkers. While our teachers are all highly skilled woodworkers and furniture makers, there is no accreditation associated with the course.

Enrolment details and class timetables are available on the VWA Class Timetable on the VWA website.

Classes take place at the VWA Wood Design Centre and Workshop, located at 5 Tyrone St, North Melbourne, VIC 3051.

There’s limited on-site parking, but there’s plenty of both free and paid street parking nearby. If you need to drop off material or pick up your project at the end of the term, there’s a 30-minute loading zone right near the entrance on Tyrone Street for easy access.

The Fixed Project Classes (FPC) are designed to give students an opportunity to learn a variety of skills from traditional hand cut joinery to more modern woodworking techniques including the safe use of tools and machinery. It is ideal for beginners who are beginning their woodworking journey.

The school runs 10 weekly classes of 3hrs duration each term and there are 4 terms each year, which roughly coincide with school holidays. Note that we typically do not break for public holidays due to a lack of capacity for catch-up classes.

You’ll build a beautifully designed mid-century-inspired nightstand using Australian hardwood. Along the way, you will learn to use key woodworking machines and hand tools like chisels and hand planes. The project includes techniques such as bridle joints, mitred boxes, and optional curved detail work. You’ll also explore different finishing options to personalise your piece.

The project is designed to be achievable within the 10-week course. If it’s not complete by the end, you’ll need to take it home. However, returning students get early access to enrolments before they open to the public—so you’re welcome to join an Open Class next term to finish your project or start something new.

Generally speaking, we are unable to provide make-up classes for missed classes, even if the reasons are outside of your control. This is primarily due to safety considerations as we want to ensure a safe teacher-to-student ratio. On occasion, if another class is not full, we may be able to accommodate extra students for make-up classes – this is handled on a case-by-case basis.

Tools and equipment are provided. The school also supplies consumables such as glue, sandpaper, finish and protective equipment. Unlike in our Open Classes, timber is supplied and included in the classes’ fees.

Class sizes are limited to a maximum of 12 to ensure personalised attention. This allows tutors to provide tailored guidance to each student. Open classes are typically supervised by a teacher and an assistant. Typically, our assistants are very highly skilled woodworkers themselves.

Safety is paramount. Students receive an induction on safe machine operation and are supervised when using machines. Students must bring appropriate protective clothing and footwear. Open-toed shoes are not permitted, jewellery must be removed, and hair must be tied back.

Fees are $1,340 inc. GST per term, which includes $270 for materials. Payments are accepted via VISA, Mastercard or direct debit (we do not accept American Express).

Enrolment details and class timetables are available on the VWA Class Timetable on the VWA website.

Classes take place at the VWA Wood Design Centre and Workshop, located at 5 Tyrone St, North Melbourne, VIC 3051.

There’s limited on-site parking, but there’s plenty of both free and paid street parking nearby. If you need to drop off material or pick up your project at the end of the term, there’s a 30-minute loading zone right near the entrance on Tyrone Street for easy access.