Building, Construction and Maintenance

When the first students arrived at Chisholme in 1974 parts of the House didn't even have floors. While all the major work has been completed on the main house, cottages and student accomodation since those pioneering days maintenance continues and new projects still emerge.

In maintenance terms ongoing work is specially focused on energy conservation and insulation. Another long-standing project is re-building the garden wall, using natural stone. Skilled and unskilled help is needed also in all areas to do with the school's infrastructure, equipment and services, day to day running repairs, checks on fire alarms, lighting, vehicles, tools and workshop, plumbing, etc.

Videos

Building the Retreat

This underground retreat cell, a dome on four arches, was begun in 1995 and completed 11 years later. Built by the School's students and volunteers and funded entirely by donations. Find out about retreat courses at Chisholme.

Building the dome of the Retreat

Building a brick dome in the traditional way, with a length of string and casting plaster. A master-class by craftsman Selim Sleeman at Chisholme House in the Scottish Borders.

How to make a yurt in 3 days

Master yurt maker Hal Wynne Jones heads a team of volunteers and students of the Beshara School in the Scottish Borders in an attempt to make a 16 foot yurt in 3 days...