| Where and when are the courses offered?
Courses are offered three times a year at most locations, mainly during the evening,
although in some instances daytime courses are offered as well. The Spring course
normally starts in January, the Summer one late April/early May, and the Autumn
one in late September/early October.
In London, each week's session is repeated every day from Monday to Saturday, so if you wish you can vary the day of your attendance each week. Sessions begin at 7 pm, from Monday to Friday, and at 10 am on Saturday mornings. They last about two and a half hours, including a break for refreshments.
In other centres throughout the country, sessions are more usually offered on specific evenings a week (and in one or two cases during the day too).
Click here for further details on how to contact individual centres.
What does the course actually cover?
The course has plenty in it for anyone interested in the great questions of life and the world around us. Concepts considered include elements from some of the great philosophic teachings and religions of the world such as Socrates, Plato, Emerson, Confucius, Shakespeare, the Bible, the Upanishads, Buddha and Shantananda Saraswati, a modern exponent of the philosophy of unity. A simple exercise in perception is introduced in the first week.
What is the format of the evenings?
A tutor presents material, and facilitates discussion based on what arises.
Students are encouraged neither to accept nor reject the ideas put forward,
but to test their effect in practice for themselves, in the light of their
own experience.
What do I need to bring with me?
Just an open and enquiring mind. At the end of each evening a handout with
key points and any quotations used is provided.
Do I need any previous qualifications?
No. The courses are suitable for everyone, regardless of education, occupation,
race, political or religious belief. The course is not religious, but it
does address the spirit in Mankind.
Will I get a certificate or qualification?
These are not academic courses. They are practical rather than
theoretical. There are no exams.
How much does it cost?
Costs vary from centre to centre, but are for the most part in the range £30-£75 according to location. Concessions are usually available for full time students and senior citizens.
How can I enrol?
In London you can either enrol online, or by calling 020 7034 4000, or by visiting 11 Mandeville Place in person on weekdays between 9.30 am and 6.30 pm. You can also simply enrol when you arrive for the first session in Week 1 (in this case it is best to arrive a little early, as others may also be enrolling at the same time). If you enrol online, you will receive an email confirming your registration. Please bring a copy of this email with you when you attend your first session as proof of payment. If you enrol before the first session by any means other than online enrolment, you will receive a receipt. Please bring this with you when you attend your first session as proof of payment.
At other centres, enrolments can be taken over the phone. Or you can simply turn up and enrol on the first evening of the course. Click here for further details on how to contact individual centres.
What about further studies?
On completing the course, some then want to go further; others find that
this introduction to the subject sufficiently satisfies their interest.
For those who wish to continue, the School offers regular Spring, Summer
and Autumn courses and, after a while, the practice of meditation. All are
most welcome. The hope is that everyone, however long or short their stay,
will find something of real value to them.
For further information, phone 020 7034 4000.
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