Dr. Petley’s Herb Apprenticeship
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to commit to all three years of the herb apprenticeship?
No, there is no requirement to sign up for all three years. Not everyone who is looking to experience making herbal products will want to practice herbalism in a clinic setting. Some herbalists want to understand herbs so they can grow, make herbal products, or simply better understand herbs and ways herbs are used.
- Are there books or required readings?
Yes, there will be suggested books that you can either purchase on your own, borrow from a library, or purchase as a group. There will be printed handouts each month.
- What happens if I miss a class?
It is best to avoid missing a class because there will be information taught that is not found in the literature. Students are still responsible for the cost of the class they miss. They are also responsible for reading the assigned material (they will get copies of all handouts and samples of any products made during the class, when applicable) and they must still prepare the herbal products as homework due the following month.
- What do I do if I have a question while making the assigned herbal products after the class?
Questions are always welcome and there will inevitably be questions that arise outside of class. This is a good thing! It might indicate an area that Dr. Petley was vague in explaining or that you are thinking outside the box. If you have questions outside of class, please email Dr. Petley and he will respond as soon as possible. If you get stuck with a project, feel free to email pictures if you think something went wrong.
- Am I required to purchase herbs or can I use what I already have on hand?
There is no requirement to purchase herbs, especially if this stretches your budget. For many projects, herbs might come from your kitchen cupboard, backyard, or easily found at a natural food store. Students may find that sharing bulk orders will help with costs of supplies. Dr. Petley highly encourages students to utilize what is in their backyard first.
- Is the $2000 the cost of year one or all three years?
Each year will cost $2000. It can be paid monthly over the 10 months or all at once by day one to save $250.
- Why am I paying a non-refundable enrollment fee?
To be fair with the first come, first served approach, Dr. Petley established the enrollment fee because class space is limited to 15 students. Only serious students who know they can commit to the entire class should enroll. It is non-refundable because each enrolled student displaces someone else who ‘could have been there’ and your last-minute or mid-year cancellation might not allow for a replacement.
- I don’t use credit cards. Can I pay with cash or check?
Yes, students may email or call Dr. Petley to announce that you will be registering. It is available online merely as a means of convenience.
- I know nothing about herbs but really want to start. Will I be behind other students?
Students do not need to know a thing about herbalism. They only need a desire to learn and to experience herbalism.
- I have a learning disability. Am I still allowed to take the class?
Dr. Petley will do his best to accommodate all learning styles and disabilities. If you think this might be a concern, please call or email Dr. Petley to describe your situation.
- Where can I get quality organic alcohol for tinctures and herbal projects?
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