Yoga with Terri

Yoga Teacher Training leading to the BWY Yoga Teachers' Diploma
 

The British Wheel of Yoga (BWY) is recognised by the sports councils as the Governing Body for yoga in Great Britain and is the largest yoga organisation in the country. The BWY Yoga Teachers' Diploma is a very highly regarded teaching qualification  which is recognised by local education authorities, the health service and many other bodies.

The course commencing January 2007 is now full. My next BWY Teachers' Diploma Course will probably start September 2008. If you can't wait until then, Pam Gorst is starting a course in Redcar  or Borrowby , North Yorkshire in autumn 2007. Email pamgorst@hotmail.com

Course Details

The Diploma Course covers the theory, practice and teaching of Yoga, including the following topics:
Anatomy & Physiology.
The preparation, practice , modification and teaching of asana.
Common ailments and special needs of individual students.
Simple breathing and relaxation.
Pranayama.
Mudra, bandha and kriya.
History and context of Yoga.
Study of traditional texts including Yoga Sutra, Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Upanishads and Bhagavad Gita.
Course planning and lesson planning.
Theory of teaching and professional studies.

Frequently Asked Questions about Yoga Teacher Training

Am I eligible to apply for a place on the course?

 You must have had at least two years regular attendance at a yoga class with a recognised teacher. You will be expected to continue with regular attendance at a class for the full duration of the course.

It is recommended that prospective students complete a BWY foundation course or equivalent before commencing a yoga teachers diploma course. Prospective students who have been unable to attend a foundation course may be expected to attend an intensive pre-diploma course to bring their knowledge and experience up to the required level.  

Do I have to be a member of the British Wheel of Yoga to apply?

 You will need to be a member of the British Wheel of Yoga to accept a place on the course but you need not be in membership to attend the Introductory Days. You will have to renew your membership annually throughout the course.

Do I have to be really good at postures?

I will not necessarily turn you down if your posture work needs some improvement. You may have many qualities that would make you an excellent yoga teacher. We all have room for improvement. If I feel that you need to make major improvements I will suggest ways and means (perhaps even changing your teacher!).

I have been attending classes regularly but not with a British Wheel of Yoga Teacher. Can I still apply?

Yes, Many students who have successfully completed the Diploma Course have come from other ‘traditions’ such as Iyengar Yoga, Sivananda Yoga, Viniyoga and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga. As long as your teacher has a recognised qualification you will be eligible.  If you have been attending classes which do not regularly include aspects of pranayama, meditation or relaxation techniques you are strongly advised to take a foundation course or equivalent.

Do I have to wait until the end of the course before I can start teaching?

No. You will be expected to start teaching during the course .You will have insurance cover with your BWY student teacher membership and you will have my support and supervision.  Many students feel ready to start teaching during their second year and some start  earlier. Teaching your own class is considered as part of your training and the revenue from it can cover the costs of the Diploma Course.

I would love to do the course but am not sure how much time I can commit to it. How much home study is involved?

The course requires considerable home study and there is a  schedule of written  assessments to be undertaken.  Home study could take up to  4-5 hours a week and the impact of this on home and work life should be considered. You will also be expected to have your own daily practice. You will be expected to be teaching in some capacity well before the end of the course, and attend your regular classes throughout the course.

 I already have an Anatomy and Physiology qualification. Can I be exempted from this part of the course?

No. The Anatomy and Physiology is taught in relationship with yoga practice. If you already  have an A & P qualification you still need to attend all sessions and do the written assignments.

I don't want to teach yoga, I just want to learn more about it for myself. Can I do the course?

The BWY Yoga Teachers' Diploma Course is geared to learning how to teach yoga safely and effectively. You will be expected to do  several mini and micro teaching practices and presentations throughout the course and also undergo three full externally assessed teaching practices. Although there is a tremendous amount of self development and deepening knowledge of yoga, its history and philosophies , the course is really only suitable for those who do want to teach at some time in the future.

How much will it cost?

For full course details and costs please giving your name and address.