How do we structure our courses and what’s the thinking behind them?
There are many ways to study, learn, connect and practice with Bodhi College and our teachers and we are proud to welcome people from all walks of life.
Here, our teaching faculty explain a little about the different types of courses or learning options we offer, and the thinking behind them:
Bodhi College commits to bringing the early teachings of the Buddha to life, within our modern-day lives and the time we live in. To do that most effectively, we offer a number of different ways to engage with the college through courses of differing lengths, format and content.
Recognising the timelessness of human joy and despair, in all our offerings we endeavour to explore how these early teachings can both deepen our understanding and teach us how to live an ethical, insightful, compassionate life.
Below is a brief description of the different course formats:
Extended programmes
Many teachers on the faculty have had the good fortune to spend extended periods of time in Asia in the 1970s, and 80s and more recently – engaging with some of the foremost teachers of the time. Some have also spent significant periods as ordained monastics in different Buddhist traditions. These immersive dharma experiences were concerned with developing meditative pathways and how to embody them in our lives.
Knowing how valuable this can be, we offer extended programmes which include developing a sense of sangha, committed periods of teaching and formal practice. These include the Committed Practitioner Programme and the year-long ‘Core Teachings of the Buddha’ programme. The first is in person and the second online, allowing a greater number of people to participate.
Specialised programmes
We offer regular study programmes focusing on a particular theme, teaching or topic – delving into the early teachings and / or addressing a contemporary challenge such as living with sickness and ageing. These take place online – as home retreats, seminars or weekly courses, or in-person retreats or short, non-residential courses.
Community building
Recognising the value of community, or sangha, we seek to encourage the deepening of community in several ways. A number of community groups, both online and in person, have been developed over the years, and are an ongoing support and benefit to people. We hope to encourage more of these.
We also offer mentoring programmes, where the teacher will offer a short reflection, create break out groups and give people time to raise questions about their path and practice. These have been mostly online and have proved to be beneficial and supportive.
Our extended programmes and indeed, any Bodhi College course is also a wonderful opportunity to develop, grow and nourish a supportive practice community.