Family History Workshops
Approved speaker for the Federation of Women’s Institute – and former Heir Hunter
My workshops are designed for smaller groups who would like a more practical and interactive introduction to family history research.
Working together in a relaxed and friendly setting, participants learn useful tips and techniques for researching their own family trees. The sessions include guidance on where to find records, how to overcome common research problems, and practical advice for breaking down “brick walls”. Participants are encouraged to bring along their own research questions, and we work together to explore possible solutions.
No previous family history research is required
Topics often covered
• Where to begin with family history research
• Understanding key records such as census returns, birth, marriage and death records
• Using newspapers, parish registers and other lesser-known sources
• Practical techniques for overcoming research “brick walls”
• Tips and strategies developed through many years of genealogical research
Workshop Format
Workshops are designed for small groups of around 10–25 participants, allowing time to work with individuals and discuss their own research questions.
Sessions are interactive and informal, with opportunities for discussion, shared problem solving and practical learning.
Workshops are particularly suitable for:
• Women’s Institute groups
• Community and heritage organisations
• Local history groups
• Libraries and adult learning groups
Women’s Institute & Group Workshops
Family History Workshop
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Fee: £25 per participant
Tracing Your Northern Irish Ancestors Workshop
Duration: approximately 3 hours
Fee: £35 per participant
Groups provide the venue and set their own ticket price to cover their costs.
If your group would be interested in hosting a workshop, please feel free to get in touch to discuss possible dates.
Independent Workshops
Duration: approximately 4 hours
Fee: £45 per participant
These sessions are open to anyone interested in learning more about researching their family history and provide the same small-group, practical format.
Workshop places are limited in order to ensure that each participant receives individual guidance.
If you would like to attend a workshop in your area, please feel free to get in touch and let me know your location. I will be happy to notify you when a workshop is scheduled nearby.
Tracing Your Northern Irish Ancestors Workshop
Duration: approximately 4 hours
Fee: £60 per participant
Researching ancestors in Northern Ireland can be challenging, but with the right knowledge it can reveal remarkable discoveries.
This workshop focuses specifically on the records and resources used for researching families from Northern Ireland and the historic counties of Ulster. Including –
• Key Northern Irish records and where to find them
• Migration between Ireland, Scotland and England and further afield
• Strategies for tracing families before civil registration
Workshop places are limited in order to ensure that each participant receives individual guidance.
If you would like to attend a workshop in your area, please feel free to get in touch and let me know your location. I will be happy to notify you when a workshop is scheduled nearby.
Family History Workshops for Students (Colleges / Universities)
My workshops can also be adapted for colleges and universities, particularly for students studying history, sociology, or social history topics such as migration, famine survival, and social mobility.
Duration: typically 3 hours including discussion.
Fee: £30 per head plus travel expenses.
Looking for an engaging talk for your group instead?
I also offer a range of illustrated talks based on real family history discoveries, suitable for Women’s Institute groups, heritage organisations, libraries and educational settings.
A Unique Gift idea
Looking for a thoughtful and unusual gift? For many people, discovering their family story is one of the most meaningful journeys they will ever take.
A place on one of my family history workshops can make a wonderful present for anyone interested in discovering more about their roots. Participants learn practical research skills while exploring the fascinating stories hidden within their own family history.
If you would like to purchase a workshop place as a gift, please feel free to get in touch.
** If you enjoyed my workshop and you know of another organisation that might also be interested, please feel free to pass on my details. **