The Urban Herbology Apprenticeship is evolving.
If you're joining us from September 2026 onwards, you'll be following the new apprenticeship format, centred around ten seasonal workshop days supported by the ever-growing Urban Herbology Library.
If you enrolled before this relaunch, don't worry. You'll continue to have access to the course format you originally signed up for, including your existing lessons, assignments and workshop mornings. If you have any questions about your version of the course, simply get in touch.
Below you'll find answers to the questions I'm most often asked.
How does the apprenticeship work?
The apprenticeship combines ten workshop days across the year with access to the Urban Herbology Library.
Each workshop focuses on seasonal plants and practical skills such as identification, herbal remedies, foodcraft and regenerative living. Afterwards, you'll find supporting videos, recipes, downloads and further learning in the online library, allowing you to revisit topics whenever you wish.
Do I have to complete the online library?
Not at all.
The library is there to support your learning, not to become another task on your to-do list. Some apprentices enjoy exploring every corner of it, while others simply return to particular recipes or plant profiles when they need them.
Can I study entirely online?
The apprenticeship is designed around the workshop days, as much of the learning happens through shared practical experience.
If you're unable to join the apprenticeship, many resources remain available through the Urban Herbology blog. There you will find listings of my public foraging walks, talks, and workshops throughout the year.
What happens if I miss a workshop?
Life happens.
Although I encourage apprentices to attend as many workshop days as possible, you'll still be able to access the related online resources afterwards. Depending on availability, there may occasionally be opportunities to join another intake for an equivalent workshop, although this cannot be guaranteed.
How many people join each apprenticeship?
Each group is intentionally small, with a maximum of six apprentices.
This allows plenty of conversation, practical guidance and time to get to know one another throughout the year.
Where are the workshops held?
Workshop days take place in Amsterdam.
We work across a variety of locations including parks, green spaces, my allotment (volkstuin), and indoor teaching spaces, depending on the season and the activities planned. The two main bases are my volkstuin in Schellingwoude, and my home in Oost Watergraafsmeer.
Full details are provided before each workshop.
Do I need any previous herbal knowledge?
No previous experience is needed. Curiosity, kindness and a willingness to learn are far more important than existing knowledge.
What should I bring?
Mostly curiosity.
For workshop days you'll usually need weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, a notebook, and occasionally a few simple items for practical sessions. You'll receive plenty of notice if anything specific is needed.
Will we be harvesting wild plants?
Yes, but always carefully and sustainably.
Learning how to forage responsibly is an important part of the apprenticeship. We'll discuss plant identification, conservation, local regulations, and respectful harvesting throughout the year. You will also be involved in regenerative work, which nurtures and adds to the local environment.
I'm already enrolled on an earlier version of the course.
Do I lose access?
No.
You'll continue to have access to the version of the course you originally purchased.
If you're unsure which version applies to you, or have any questions, just send me an email.
Can I come and say hello outside of the workshops?
Yes. Throughout the year I'm often gardening with local community groups in Park Frankendael, usually on Monday mornings in the Stijltuin and some Saturday mornings in the orchards. Apprentices are always welcome to stop by for a chat, lend a hand if they fancy it, or simply spend a little more time around the plants.
These are informal gardening sessions rather than taught workshops, so there's no obligation and no need to stay for the whole morning. It's simply another way to become part of the Urban Herbology community and spend more time learning from the seasons.
I have another question.
I'd love to hear from you.
You can contact me any time at lynn.shore@gmail.com, and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.