Sharing skills for a truly sustainable life.
Common Knowledge is an award-winning, non-profit social enterprise located at the gateway to the Burren, on Ireland’s beautiful Wild Atlantic Way. We share skills in building, making, mending and growing, because we believe that between us all, we have the knowledge needed to create a truly sustainable future. Based on 50 acres, our Centre is a haven for learning, exploring and connection with other people, offering serene accommodation for people and groups.
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From Complete Beginner to Confident Builder in Five Days
If you've ever looked at a building project and wondered where to start, this is the week that changes that. Build School brings together five days of hands-on workshops and grounded theory, giving you the skills to pick up power tools with confidence, understand how buildings actually work, and have better conversations with tradespeople.
Whether you're dreaming of a self-build or simply want to take on more around the home, you'll leave with practical knowledge that pays for itself many times over.
“The tutors were excellent and so patient. As a complete beginner, it was great to be taught the basics, without tutors making any assumptions of prior experience. It's given me such a boost in confidence to take on our own project!” - Build School Participant, April 2026
Upcoming Courses and Events
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Courses
Learn to build, make, mend or grow at The Common Knowledge Centre in 2024.
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Community Projects
We work with communities and mission-aligned non-profits to bring our collective energy to their biggest challenges.
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Venue Hire
We are pleased to now offer The Common Knowledge Centre for hire for private gatherings, workshops and events.
Subscribe to our newsletter for 10% off your first course, and for regular updates and access to courses before they go on general sale
Crafting Connection: The Joy and Skill of Spoon Making
The conversation this week is with master craftsman, Éamonn O’Sullivan form Hewn spoons. He talks about the skill and craft involved in carving your own spoon and the joy of using this piece of cutlery to feed and nourish yourself.
Why demystifying the Construction Process is good for everyone.
This week we talk to Common Knowledge co-founder, Harrison Gardner about demystifying the construction process and why it's important for all of us to learn more about the buildings we live in and why this is at the core of Build School Level One.
Why We Need to Keep Traditional Skills Alive
We’d like you to introduce you to Aoife Hammond, our Events and Projects Co-ordiantor here at Common Knowledge. We’ll let Aoife tell you all about their music, community building and skill sharing influences so you can see how it translates into what they create and run for us with Heritage Days, Community Projects and our upcoming Rekindle Festival.
Demystifying Permaculture with Ciara Parsons
We’d like you to meet Ciara Parsons, the Common Knowledge Permaculture Co-ordinator and let her tell you all about what permaculture is, why she loves it and what she’s growing, cultivating and teaching in this space on our 50 acre site in Kilfenora.
Nature’s Wild Gift: What to Forage on a Walk in Ireland
Foraging, the age-old practice of gathering wild plants for food and medicine, reconnects us with nature, enhances our knowledge of the local ecosystem, and boosts our well-being.
Toolbox Basics: Gear you should own, even if you're not a DIY Pro.
We look at the top tools that should be in every toolkit, regardless of whether you know how to use them just yet.
