April 2019
Climate Change & Consciousness Livestream
‘Without a global revolution in the sphere of human consciousness, the catastrophe toward which the world is headed will be unavoidable.’ It's clear that we are living in uncertain times and the current climate emergency we are facing demands our engagement now! The conference brings together eminent scientists, wisdom keepers, business people, activists, artists, entrepreneurs, young people, and others, to envision and begin to inhabit our joint future. It will be an international, inter-generational and multi-disciplinary gathering. Hawkwood will…
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Message from Polly
You will probably have heard by now that Polly left this dimension peacefully on the afternoon of Easter/Êostre Sunday. It was her express wish that the event goes ahead in her absence. It shall be an honouring of Polly and her work. Jojo Mehta shall be speaking and will also be including words from Polly. She was adamant that nobody should be turned away, but please bear in mind that the audience is likely to extend to the garden if…
Find out more »May 2019
Art of Woodblock Printmaking
At a glance For all levels of ability Learn all you need to make lovely prints Work in a supportive and friendly environment Participants will gain You will learn enough to be able to work with confidence at home You will know how to get and care for a basic kit of tools necessary You will learn what makes this such an especially exciting and powerful media The course will begin with showing how a printing block can be prepared,…
Find out more »CANCELLED. Sacred Earth
At a glance A lively, experiential weekend Meditation and visualisation techniques Time in nature and creating sacred rituals What participants will gain Discover scientific evidence to support this spiritual enquiry Learn how to work with elementals and nature beings Learn to recognise and honour sacred places in everyday life Make your life a sacred co-creation in harmony with the Earth New cosmic energies are entering the Earth that are accelerating our individual and global transformation. This is the time to…
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Writing from Earth’s Landscapes
At a glance Write a larger, deeper, wilder story for your life Write poetry, journal, spend time in nature Experience the power of Earth’s landscapes Participants will gain Rewild your imagination and spark your earth-born creativity Awaken to the power of Earth’s metaphors as wise guides and ancestors to your mythic journey Discover a nature-based writing practice that will bring greater clarity to your life path During the two-day course, you will root your story in five Earth archetypes. In…
Find out more »CANCELLED. Ancestors in our Lives Today
At a glance Excerpts from a new book on the spiritual energy of Hawaii Fascinating insights, stories and anecdotes Presented with humour and love What participants will gain Knowledge of mystical ancestors Learn practical healing techniques Our ancestors are calling us to heal inherited patterns in our blood and spiritual lineage. They want to communicate with us to heal the negative core beliefs and traumas, such as scarcity, abandonment, abuse, that they have been passed on to us. This awareness…
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May Day Festival
There will be live music from local artists throughout the day on the patio area where you will be able to enjoy an organic bite to eat from the barbecue, have a drink from the bar which includes beer from Stroud Brewery or treat yourself to a delicious Winstone’s ice-cream. There are children's activities throughout the day which include face painting, storytelling, nature and art, maypole dancing and a treasure hunt around the grounds. For the adults, there are free…
Find out more »Our Fragile Environment
At a glance Work with two leading textile artists Express your creativity and develop observation skills Learn new textile techniques Participants will gain Discover unexpected detail in the green world around us. Time to enjoy creating in fabrics and thread. The confidence to create unique and fascinating small works of art or samples in fabric and thread. Come to take a closer look at the green world around us. Discover unexpected detail through focusing on leaves: the structure of veins,…
Find out more »Awaken the Self
At a glance A quiet day of discussion, group exercises and meditation Sharing with like-minded others Develop self-compassion What participants will gain Learn a way of facing your deepest emotions without fear Meet ‘little you’, the inner part of you which holds your memories and beliefs Merge into the ‘witness state’ of infinite Peace What is your relationship to yourself? Are you critical, judgemental of yourself and others? Do you have a perfect idea of how you would like to…
Find out more »Nature Writing
At a glance Early start to listen to the dawn chorus in the leafy grounds of Hawkwood Focus on experiential writing – immersing ourselves in nature before we write Tried-and-trusted techniques for workshopping our writing – constructive criticism and praise Participants will gain An understanding of why we write about nature, and how to approach your own writing on the subject through experience and understanding of the natural world. A practical approach to making notes about your experiences, which can…
Find out more »Ethics of Belief
At a Glance Our society is facing a post-truth crisis and we need to work out how we can usefully respond to this crisis What we believe and how we form our beliefs is important Participants will gain A set of guiding principles for forming sound beliefs Ways to sort facts from b***sh**t and to respond to wrong-headed and dangerous beliefs A map of their ‘circles of influence’ and options for expanding these circles Strategies to help the people we…
Find out more »Exploring the Ethics of Truth and Influence
Participants will gain How to better distinguish truth from beliefs and opinions Ideas for ways to ethically influence the people around you How to sort facts from b***sh*t and how to respond to wrong-headed and dangerous beliefs. Truth is in decay. It is endangered daily and, as a result, democracy itself is at risk.The Head of the University of Sydney’s Post-Truth Initiative, Professor Nick Enfield, warned that we are facing a “post truth crisis” where people are “emboldened to state…
Find out more »The Silent Watcher
At a glance Understanding the existence of the Silent Watcher, and how this being seeks to guide the soul’s intention to serve. The soul has a purpose given to it, but to properly recognise it requires that the impurities of the personality be lifted or transformed. What participants will gain A deeper understanding of their soul’s purpose, and the Divine Life that gives impulse to that purpose. A recognition of the various mental, emotional and physical distortions (veils of illusion)…
Find out more »Journey to Enlightenment
At a glance Understand the human evolutionary journey from entrance into the human kingdom to full enlightenment. What participants will gain A deeper understanding of the three major stages of human evolution. The emphasis is on the stage of initiation for those who are consciously walking the spiritual path. Over the vastness of time, there are believed to be three phases of human evolution that lead us to the gate of enlightenment—Individualisation, Initiation and Identification. In this talk, William Meader…
Find out more »Fragmentation & Cohesion
At a glance Dialogue and sharing of varied perspectives on fragmentation and cohesion Fragmentation and Cohesion are parts in an ongoing dynamic and creative conversation Working with the Chinese brush, paint and collage as tools for exploration and externalising our inner experiences Tapping into the inherent wisdom of the body, finding centre and making connections through gentle short exercises Participants will gain Ways to acknowledge and articulate inner experiences and patterns Practices to support a sense of cohesion and meaning…
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Deep Collaboration
Part I: The Fundamentals of Nonviolence Tue 28 May An opportunity to align with the principles of nonviolence and bring these values into your work or activism. Learn how to make your work for change consistent with your vision, values and goals Transcend your despair and anger and get inspired about what’s possible Recognize the importance of inner work Transform judgment to embrace everyone’s humanity and needs, including those with opposing views Part II: From Conflict to Connection Wed 29…
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Mindfulness for Runners
Participants will gain Bringing more joy to our running through cultivating gratitude, awareness and presence Learning good posture and technique to help prevent run-related injuries Learning new mindfulness skills to apply in everyday life Learning to work with our mind’s habits on the run and in our life with more wisdom and kindness Understanding the difference between “doing” mode and “being” mode while running and in life Running is one of the most popular forms of exercise in the UK.…
Find out more »June 2019
Blacksmithing Day
At a glance You will have hands-on experience of forging hot iron You will have the choice of items to make, welcome to bring own designs/ideas You will learn how to make and maintain forge fire, heat the steel correctly, and apply correct techniques to produce well-made items Plenty of tutor attention working in a small group of up to 5 participants What will participants gain An understanding of the craft process of blacksmithing A range of projects completed based on…
Find out more »Deep Ecology
At a glance The principles of Deep Ecology and Eco-psychology - nature, human nature and the quest for meaning. Personal and collective myths and the role of human consciousness in the ecological process. Participants will gain Explore the potential of ritual as a creative tool for personal and collective growth. Deepen their connection and sense of belonging to the web of life. When we transcend the myth of separation and embrace our role within the ecological system, we enrich our…
Find out more »Co-creating the Future of Work
At a glance Experiential, action learning workshop where we will share, learn and co-create the next stages of our leadership and our work. Exploring creative and agile ways of working to meet the needs of the increasingly fast-changing and complex environments of work. Join other forward-thinking organisational leaders committed to more meaningful, sustainable and generative ways of working Participants will gain Co-create and experience practical tools to support you navigating the future of work Leverage the collective intelligence of the…
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Watercolour Painting
At a glance Increase your knowledge of watercolour painting Relax and enjoy a weekend of creativity Develop confidence in yourself as a painter Participants will gain A weekend devoted to the joy of painting in a relaxed, supportive environment. An opportunity to tap into your unique creative voice with the help and guidance of an experienced teacher. Whether you are a complete beginner or want to improve your painting skills, this class will help you become more confident in the…
Find out more »July 2019
Creative Writing Weekend
At a glance Guided writing exercises, nature connection, reading from other writers and time to develop new writing. Gentle encouragement guided exercises and feedback Participants will gain Focussed creative time away from everyday responsibilities to develop new writing Increased confidence in their writing and creativity, and the inspiration to find new approaches to writing about place Through ‘Writing the Land’, a creative writing course inspired by ecology and place, we will connect with the magnificent surroundings of Hawkwood a sustainably…
Find out more »Landscape in Mixed Media
At a Glance An introduction to the tools, techniques and ‘tricks’ of mixed-media painting A creative mix of teaching, demonstration and hands-on experimentation Expert guidance in the areas you want to develop most Develop skills and techniques for better composition and sketching Experiment with priming, pigments and different types of paint Learn how to use different media, including inks, acrylics, texturising mediums, oils and cold wax Day 1 All Jayne’s courses begin with a chat to find out about you,…
Find out more »Blacksmithing Day
At a glance You will have hands-on experience of forging hot iron You will have the choice of items to make, welcome to bring own designs/ideas You will learn how to make and maintain forge fire, heat the steel correctly, and apply correct techniques to produce well-made items Plenty of tutor attention working in a small group of up to 5 participants What will participants gain An understanding of the craft process of blacksmithing A range of projects completed based on…
Find out more »Blacksmithing Day
At a glance You will have hands-on experience of forging hot iron You will have the choice of items to make, welcome to bring own designs/ideas You will learn how to make and maintain forge fire, heat the steel correctly, and apply correct techniques to produce well-made items Plenty of tutor attention working in a small group of up to 5 participants What will participants gain An understanding of the craft process of blacksmithing A range of projects completed based on…
Find out more »Indian Block Printing
Indian block printing is a traditional craft still in use today to produce beautiful fabrics, join me for a day of printing exploration using hand-carved Indian wood blocks, some collected on travels in India some old, some new but all wonderful to use. We will start with me sharing some images, fabrics and prints of India, I will explain the process of hand carving these blocks, which are carved by skilled craftsmen, mainly in the area around Jaipur and the…
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Gong Master Training Course
The ten days/nine night full Gong Master Training comprises both theory and practice sessions with optional pre-breakfast additional Yoga sessions for those who wish to continue their early morning Yoga practice. The course is structured in two modules of five days/four nights (Module One) and five days/five nights(Module Two) so experienced students or those on a budget can still participate in an appropriate Module. Returning students will enjoy a discount for attending Module Two. The emphasis will be on all…
Find out more »August 2019
Qi Gong Meditation Retreat
At a glance Experience stillness (our empty essence) Develop awareness of what Qi shows about ourselves and the world we live in Participants will gain You will go home with exercises for your own practice to connect your own innate life-force or qi with the natural healing forces of the Earth A stronger energy-body that can result in improvements in the health of our physical, emotional and mental aspects Greater health, freedom, and clarity of body, energy, and mind We use a variety…
Find out more »Strings Summer School
At a glance Delve into technical, musical and theoretical ideas with professional musicians Improve your ensemble playing skills with other like-minded musicians In between sessions, socialise or take time to explore the tranquil surroundings of Hawkwood College Participants will gain Gain a greater understanding of ensemble musicianship Learn new techniques Explore varied works from the string repertoire Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO) presents its second annual Strings Residential. Come and enjoy specialist coaching from string players of the world-class orchestra as…
Find out more »Sing-through Choral Concert
Nobody writes for choirs quite like Eric Whitacre: by turns haunting and playful, his music lingers long in the heart and soul. With his trademark scrunches, sexy harmonies, and fabulous sense of texture in sound, Eric has become a worldwide phenomenon in the choral world. Enjoy a wonderful long-weekend exploring his music with renowned choral maestro Gavin Carr, whose humour and passion is fast becoming legendary. From the awesome depth of When David heard to the stunning beauty of I thank you god for…
Find out more »Connecting Heaven and Earth
At a Glance Sing the chant of Hildegard of Bingen and understand her mystical vision. Explore the mystical inscape of Hildegard’s spiritual world. What participants will gain Participate in the singing of Hildegard’s glorious chant. Deepen your understanding of her mystical vision. The Benedictine abbess, Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179) was an extraordinary woman, a visionary whose written works covered healing, prophetic vision, the mystical and practical aspects of spiritual life, and the composition of a unique form of chant that…
Find out more »Kabbalah & the New Sciences
You will learn: Theory and practice about Kabbalah and new sciences Practical application of metaphysics together with physics Self-healing and inner tools for transforming yourself Using the power of belief and suggestion The healing properties of stillness (consciousness) in daily life How to beneficially live your inner life in response to outer circumstances About what food is recommended on different levels of your being And much more The last decades, there is a growing interest to bring together the Spiritual…
Find out more »Kabbalistic Summer School
At a glance Using theory and practice, the Kabbalistic scheme of the Four Worlds is explained, brought to life, and made real through teaching, sharing and meditation. A sacred space is created in the form of the Tree of Life, laid on the floor, to be walked though in devotional ritual. Participants will gain A wider understanding of Kabbalistic principles. Fresh experiences from the oral tradition. The annual Kabbalah summer school is an opportunity to gather in the peaceful surroundings…
Find out more »The Alexander Technique
At a glance We are surprisingly unaware of how we use ourselves in our moment-to-moment everyday activities. By eliminating harmful movement habits, and habits of reaction, we can gain self-mastery. What will participants gain They will learn how to help themselves to better psycho-physical health long-term. They will take away immediately applicable practical procedures for lifelong improvement of any activity. The course now starts after lunch on Friday as we have found over the years that participants would like more…
Find out more »Classical Guitar Masterclass
At a glance Study with one of UK’s leading guitarists Play alongside others of a similar level Solo and ensemble exercises Participants will gain Develop your own unique voice on the guitar Perfect your technique with individual attention Practice with interpretation and expression Performance skills This summer weekend course is a true celebration of the guitar and brings the perfect combination of musical study and beautiful surroundings. This 2-day masterclass is a great opportunity to study with one of the…
Find out more »September 2019
Classical Guitar Concert
At a glance An intimate concert in an informal setting Acoustic sound – no amplification A varied, eclectic repertoire Participants will gain Be touched by beautiful melodies Hear new arrangements of familiar tunes Be challenged by intricate musical flavours This summer afternoon concert promises to be engaging and educational as Craig Ogden introduces each piece with an anecdote or knowledge about the composer, the instrumentation or the performance challenges presented by a particular piece.
Find out more »Restoring Eden
At a glance Retreat-like atmosphere Guided meditations, sacred singing and inner journeying Participants will gain The benefit of tutor’s years of experience Ways to commune with nature spirits, devas, and genius loci (spirits of place) Techniques to become an agent for spiritual-ecological healing We are all aware that our planet is in an ecological crisis. We must do what we can to avert catastrophe. However, if our motivation is solely based on fear for human survival then whatever we do will…
Find out more »Rest & Restore Retreat
At a glance Restorative and gentle yoga with deeply relaxing yoga nidra Silent meditation walks Poetry and Philosophy What will participants gain The chance to discover nourishing and restorative yoga to rest aching muscles and weary bones A form of meditation done through complete relaxation The opportunity to connect with the beautiful surroundings through silent walks and time in nature Enter into autumn with grace on this yoga retreat which promises to give you time and space to breathe. With…
Find out more »Yoga Philosophy
At a glance We will explore the various steps and stages of self-transformation through dialogues/ discussions. The process will involve some talks and also mindfully watching some films to strive towards personal growth and transformation. The participants will understand the need for a radical transformation of the ordinary self. The participants will appreciate the necessity of a radical inner transformation leading to a freedom from myself and will try to follow a suitable discipline which will assist this transformation. In…
Find out more »Self Inquiry & Transformation
In order to discover and live in harmony with my real Self, I need to undertake an impartial and in-depth self-inquiry to find out the major characteristics of what I usually call myself. Whatever I become aware of changes in its quality and in its relationship with me. Awareness is the mechanism of transformation. Knowing and being are intimately connected in a spiral relationship. This is the reason that the main yoga that is taught in the Bhagavad Gita is the…
Find out more »Building Wellbeing Together Weekend
At a glance Excellent keynote speakers, including peace and environmental activist Satish Kumar; Jennifer Wallace from the Carnegie UK Trust and Action for Happiness’ Director, Mark Williamson Inspiration through interactive workshops, nature walks, mindfulness and more. Participants will gain: Learn the latest thinking on personal wellbeing and its links to community action and social change Connect with leading people in the wellbeing movement Feel invigorated with a renewed sense of purpose This event will bring together leading thinkers and activists…
Find out more »Blacksmithing Day
At a glance You will have hands-on experience of forging hot iron You will have the choice of items to make, welcome to bring own designs/ideas You will learn how to make and maintain forge fire, heat the steel correctly, and apply correct techniques to produce well-made items Plenty of tutor attention working in a small group of up to 5 participants What will participants gain An understanding of the craft process of blacksmithing A range of projects completed based on…
Find out more »October 2019
Rudolf Steiner’s Future Thinking
At a glance Map of a changing world and burning questions to address Conversations and human encounter for change Rudolf Steiner’s social thinking and the human being What participants will gain Inspirational, practical examples of new ways forward The dynamics of money and ethical banking; community land trusts for affordable housing and farms; tri-sectoral partnerships; sustainable development; freeing education; associative economics Study visits to local projects Discussion and future thinking As the ‘market’ has come to dominate, we are challenged…
Find out more »Talk: Free, Equal and Mutual
At a glance Public talk on sustainable society Examples of projects working for the common good Discussion on ways forward for change What participants will gain Introduction to Rudolf Steiner’s social thinking and the human being Opportunity to consider social questions in new ways Inspiration and motivation As the ‘market’ has come to dominate, we are challenged to rebalance society by pushing back the market into its place - alongside a vibrant culture, equitable human rights, associative economy and a…
Find out more »Create a Singing Bowl
At a glance A unique opportunity to create your own hand-made instrument Learning with experienced teachers Being outdoors and working with your hands – and your heart! Participants will gain Practical skills of metalwork Knowledge of Ancient Tibet and meditation Meet new friends in a retreat-like atmosphere Generations of smiths and coppersmiths have dedicated their work to the search for the “one perfect all-transcending sound”. Under Ton and Carolina’s friendly, professional supervision you will learn the technique of forging to…
Find out more »Embodied Leadership
At a glance Introduction to the 10 Archetypes essential for women leaders: Sovereign, Strategist, Nurturer, Lover, Dreamer, Storyteller, Renegade, Transformer, Warrior, and Explorer. Reflection, creative exercises and small group coaching to reclaim and balance positive feminine & masculine qualities within. Participants will gain A rejuvenated connection with many parts of ourselves and our relationship to work Determination and confidence to own and embody our power in a variety of settings The capacity to shape the world we want to see…
Find out more »Being Centred
At a glance Tai chi is concerned with how we live every day. “Tai chi is not about the form, it is about how we reach for the rice packet from the top shelf in the supermarket.” Al Chungliang Huang, Master Tai Chi teacher Tai chi can tell us much about how to work with our energy Taoist wisdom is embodied in tai chi Participants will gain A short form tai chi practice they can learn and practice at home.…
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The Art in Listening
At a glance Creative sound and movement awareness Deep listening and improvisation with voice and percussion Self-development and creative expression Participants will gain A range of practices and approaches to inform your personal enquiry Greater confidence in how to bridge different aspects of your life. A sense of your own vocation and buoyancy The Art in Listening is a practical approach to self-development using artistic practices. It provides a context for hearing the inspirations which are most important for maintaining a meaningful life. This course…
Find out more »Blacksmithing Day
At a glance You will have hands-on experience of forging hot iron You will have the choice of items to make, welcome to bring own designs/ideas You will learn how to make and maintain forge fire, heat the steel correctly, and apply correct techniques to produce well-made items Plenty of tutor attention working in a small group of up to 5 participants What will participants gain An understanding of the craft process of blacksmithing A range of projects completed based on…
Find out more »November 2019
Silence, Deep Listening & the Voice
The Naked Voice is your original voice, fully-embodied, naturally-expressed, and free of self-consciousness. It is your authentic sound, as unique as your DNA or fingerprint. In 1990, singer and voice teacher, Chloe Goodchild, founded The Naked Voice, as a unique method that explores the human voice as a source of individual and collective self-discovery, linking to the most profound levels of human wisdom. The Naked Voice experience, is everyone’s birthright. No matter whether you are seeking tools for emotional honesty, conflict-resolution, compassionate relationships…
Find out more »Before I Go
At a glance Wills (why we need to have them), Lasting Powers of Attorney, Advance Decisions, Do Not Resuscitate orders, Funeral preferences How we might begin these ‘difficult’ conversations with family and friends What the dying process looks like What is our legacy? What will participants gain Recognition of why it is important to plan for the future Practical steps needed to prepare well for death and dying Workbook containing all the information needed Getting started is often the hardest part…
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Yoga Retreat
At a glance Increase your physical strength and flexibility Relax and rejuvenate your mind Improve your concentration Philosophy of yoga beautifully intertwined with Asana Practice, Pranayama and Meditation What will participants gain A weekend spent with like minded people in this delightful community The benefits - still mind, stronger heart, core strength and inner calm - are evident long after the weekend The art of Relaxation and a feeling of rejuvenation Whatever your ability, you are most welcome at this…
Find out more »Blacksmithing Day
At a glance You will have hands-on experience of forging hot iron You will have the choice of items to make, welcome to bring own designs/ideas You will learn how to make and maintain forge fire, heat the steel correctly, and apply correct techniques to produce well-made items Plenty of tutor attention working in a small group of up to 5 participants What will participants gain An understanding of the craft process of blacksmithing A range of projects completed based on…
Find out more »December 2019
Brutus and the Myth of New Troy
At a glance Discover one of the forgotten myths of Britain’s foundation Find out what happened after the Fall of Troy and why Britons are called ‘the remnant of Troy’ by Welsh poets. Participants will gain Enact and learn about the ancient giants in an original Masque Join the legendary Company of Hawkwood for its annual mythic exploration On this our 34th annual open mystery school, we explore the mythic foundations of Britain and London and follow the adventures of…
Find out more »Byzantine Icon Painting
At a glance Step by step guidance for beginners. Learn to see & analyse the design of a classic icon. Draw your unique sketch of this saint. Focus on the skills of painting a large icon face; exploring how to develop calm yet powerful expression. Learn fine points of painting beards. Please note; there will be no gilding on this icon to allow the class to focus on exploring design & drawing of the sketch.
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