First Floor, Linton House, 39-51 Highgate Road, London NW5 1RS Telephone: 020 7482 5135
UK and Overseas STAT-approved Training Courses
On completing an approved three-year training course a graduate is eligible to apply for ordinary (teaching) membership of the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT), a widely recognised professional association which maintains high standards of training and ethical practice within the profession.
Every effort has been made to ensure details listed here are correct. However, the nature of training means that there will inevitably be changes to curricula to serve the needs of students in a process of continuing development. For more details contact the courses directly.
All courses welcome visits from teachers and members of the public by prior arrangement.
UK Courses
BERKSHIRE: Alexander ReEducation Centre
BRISTOL: Bristol Alexander Technique Training School Association (BATTSA)
CORNWALL: The Alexander Technique School of Cornwall
CUMBRIA: Cumbria Alexander Training
DEVON: Centre for Constructive Awareness and Related Education (CCARE)
DEVON: New Directions Training Course in the Alexander Technique
ESSEX: Essex Alexander School
LONDON:
Alexander Technique School, Queen's Park
The Alexander Technique Studio
The Centre for the Alexander Technique
The Constructive Teaching Centre
London Centre for Alexander Technique and Training (LCATT)
The Alexander Teacher Training School
Victoria Training Course for the Alexander Technique
Westminster Alexander Training Course
MANCHESTER: Manchester Alexander Training School
OXFORDSHIRE: Oxford Alexander Training School
SUSSEX (EAST): The Alexander Technique College (Brighton and Hove)
SUSSEX (EAST): The Brighton School for Alexander Technique
YORKSHIRE: York Alexander Technique School
Courses outside the UK
IRELAND: The Alexander Technique Centre
ARGENTINA: Escuela de Tecnica Alexander de Buenos Aires (ETABA)
AUSTRIA: Alexander Technique Teacher Training Centre
ITALY: Scuola di Tecnica Alexander ( The Kangaroo )
SWEDEN: Stockholm Alexander Teacher Training Sweden (Stockholms Alexanderlärarutbildning)
General information
The first training course was started by FM Alexander in London in 1931, under the patronage of the Earl of Lytton, Dr Peter Macdonald and Sir Lynden Macassey, with the support of a number of educational and medical authorities. Courses are now run by a Head of Training and are approved by the Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT), which is the widely recognised professional teaching body, established in 1958. In addition to the UK training courses, similar courses are run under the auspices of STAT in Austria and Italy, and by affiliated societies of Alexander teachers in Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Israel, The Netherlands, South Africa, Switzerland and the USA.
Students are obliged to become Student Members of the Society for the duration of their training and are required to give an undertaking not to teach without the permission of its Council. On completing a course satisfactorily, students receive a certificate and the Society's authorisation to teach the Alexander Technique. Qualifying students are eligible to apply for Ordinary (ie teaching) Membership of the Society.
Since Alexander teachers are often called upon to work with people of widely differing ages, needs and interests, almost any form of previous training and experience can be an advantage, but is not essential. A thorough course of instruction in the Technique on the basis of individual lessons is necessary before training as a teacher.
Following an initial visit to a school and an interview with the Head of Training, candidates may be admitted to the course for a probationary period during which their suitability for training can be assessed. During this time they are free to withdraw should they wish to do so. A term's fees, however, have to be paid in advance. Upon completion of this probationary period, successful candidates will be accepted for the course of training which lasts three years.
The usual academic terms are observed: mid-September to late December, early January to Easter, and from the end of the Easter holiday to late July, amounting in total to between 30 and 36 weeks per year. Classes are held on average for four hours per day, including breaks, four or five days a week (see the individual prospectus for exact times). Students also undertake additional study in their own time and need to be able to organise their routine of work and practice without undue stress and fatigue. It is essential for students to know how to employ the Technique personally before they can learn to teach it to others.
In class, the work is mainly of a practical nature and instruction is usually given individually or in small groups (the student:teacher ratio is never more than 5:1). Time is provided for lectures or discussions on relevant basic anatomy and physiology and a wide course of reading is recommended according to the special needs and interest of the individual. The study of FM Alexander's own writings and other set works is essential. Other topics are covered by lectures and practical demonstrations. In the final year practical teaching experience is gained by working under supervision on fellow students and sometimes members of the public. There may be provision for post-graduate teaching experience (see the prospectus).
The average fees for a complete course are £12,000 and are payable by instalments of approximately £1300 each term, in advance (VAT has been included where applicable). Schools tend to keep their fees the same throughout a training course, but may make necessary increases from time to time in line with inflation (again, contact the school for details of its policy).
In view of the practical nature of the work, the decision as to whether a student's training has been completed satisfactorily is reached by continuous assessment. Courses may require some written work. On completion of the course, students who have satisfied the Head of Training and the External Assessor of their competency are proposed for certification by STAT.
Candidates wishing to apply for training should write to the Secretary of the Training Course asking for a prospectus and application form.
List of Training Courses
BERKSHIRE
Prerequisites: Good health, character and education. A reasonable number of lessons. Interview
and probationary term.
Curriculum: The application of the principles laid down in writings of FM Alexander, anatomy,
physiology, kinesiology and postural reflexes. The daily timetable is divided into four
sessions:
BRISTOL
Correspondence and calls: Caroline Chalk, Fosse Cottage, 87 New Buildings, Lower Peasedown, Bath BA2 8LB
Prerequisites: An understanding of the Alexander Technique in theory and practice. A sense of
curiosity and an interest in continued learning. At least one visit to the school, interview
and lesson with Head of Training. Possible probationary term.
Structure: Includes individual sessions, small mixed groups, year groups and whole group
work. Minimum of two private lessons a term. Second and third year trainees work individually
on teachers at least twice a week.
Curriculum: Developing throughout the three years: Understanding the theory and practice of
FM Alexander's principles, work on the self, recognition of personal responsibility and
choice, including the emotional aspects of change. Teaching skills: hands-on, observational
and verbal skills and application in activities. Study of FM Alexander's books and related
literature, anatomy, physiology and body mapping. Use of the voice, movement class, discussion
groups and talks, video study, student presentations, building up to Introductory Talks on the
AT. In their third year, trainees progress to giving lessons to members of the public in class
time; they also give talks and teach music students at Bristol University. Home study and
written work varies from one to four hours a week. There is an optional post graduate teaching
term of one day a week. Teachers from varied backgrounds visit regularly each term.
CORNWALL
Prerequisites: Prospective students should have an ongoing curiosity and understanding of the
Technique, a will to work and a reasonable number of lessons. A visit with the directors is
necessary and useful.
Curriculum: The school is situated on Gwithian Towans by four miles of beach and the Atlantic
ocean: an ideal place for our work. The daily schedule consists of Turns (small lessons),
Games (particular directed activities), Activities (in which students work at something
important to themselves), Groups (study of hands on work involved in teaching the Alexander
Technique), the reading of FM Alexander's books, discussion groups, anatomy and physiology
related to our work. And always there is much more. The spirit of the school is one of
adventure and enquiry, helping the students to fulfil their own individual potential.
CUMBRIA
Prerequisites: Students who have an ongoing interest in exploring the implications of
Alexander's ideas on psychophysical unity. Visit the school for discussions with directors.
Curriculum: The three-year teacher training programme at Fellside offers:
DEVON
Prerequisites: Previous lessons. An aptitude for taking on the challenge of fundamental change
and a willingness to take a step into the unknown.
Curriculum: The course will offer a balanced programme of practical and theoretical work. In
the practical work, the emphasis will be on learning the skill of using the hands. Alexander's
four books will be studied as well as other literature and articles relating to the Alexander
Technique. Students will be expected to submit written summaries of the four books as well as
written work on various aspects of the Alexander Technique, at the discretion of the Director.
In addition to the practical and theoretical work, functional anatomy related to the
coordinated use of the self will be studied. Voice-work will also form a part of the
curriculum.
DEVON
INTRODUCTION:
2, The ‘mental’ aspect of the work
3, The pedagogical aspect of the work
The Course itself has been devised as a progression of the students’ ability to work on themselves via an increasing
understanding of approximately twenty procedures of the Alexander Technique and other activities. The procedures to be
worked on have been developed as a sequence and allocated to a termly programme. When the student has reached a deeper
understanding of the procedures and the concepts underlying them, they will start to put hands on fellow students under
supervision.
However, as it is recognised that not all students are starting from the same place, and as it is often difficult for
students to monitor their own progress on “non practical” courses, a plan of continuous assessment has been drawn up which
will enable the staff to help each student monitor their progress along the route of the course.
As the New Directions training course is planned to prepare students as fully as possible for a career as a teacher of the
Alexander Technique, when students qualify they will have:
Termly written work forms part of the Course. Prior to qualification students will prepare their own publicity material for
their future practice, in the form of a brochure or a website.
COURSE OUTLINE
Second Year
Third Year
Students are involved in Group Work during this year: they will lead groups of fellow students during Course time and may
assist on Courses for Beginners organised by the Training Course outside normal Course time.
The final term is the term of Teaching Practice when students have at least one private pupil to whom they give 20 lessons
during Course time under supervision and guidance. Students will keep a lesson by lesson account of these sessions.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
GRANTING OF QUALIFICATION
ESSEX
Prerequisites: Previous lessons, good health, character and education, and a strong desire to
learn all they can of Mr Alexander and his Technique.
Curriculum: The structure of our syllabus is to follow FM's discoveries through a sequential
pattern so that the students can build on a firm foundation which will stand them in good
stead for later work. A strong emphasis is therefore placed on a well thought out "means
whereby" approach to all aspects of the course. Constantly requesting students to heighten
their sense of awareness, to use their eyes, become more observant and to "think on their
feet".
Year 1: Individual lessons to improve use, develop understanding and practice of "inhibition
and directions", understanding of "end gaining and means whereby". Develop powers of observation. Study and
practice of "Monkey". "Hands-on" work in small, led groups, study of books by FM Alexander.
Relevant functional anatomy, physiology and psychology. Viewing of a number of videos featuring senior teachers,
Congress workshops etc.
Year 2: Continuing to improve student's psychophysical use and "hands-on" skills. Further
study of Alexander's books, anatomy and physiology etc.
Year 3: Continuing work on student's own use, one to one teaching, the importance of language
and rapport with pupils. Detecting negative thinking and its effects. Setting up in practice
and presenting the Technique to the public. Two private lessons are given during each term.
Visiting teachers add exposure to a variety of styles of teaching.
LONDON
Prerequisites: Previous individual lessons, Interview with head of training. Visit to school
advisable.
Curriculum: Course content follows STAT guidelines. About 80 per cent of the teaching time is
devoted to practical work. This is the principal route towards understanding, experiencing and
internalising the fundamental concepts of FM Alexander's discoveries: primary control,
inhibition, directions, conscious control, unity of mind and body, means whereby, end gaining
and non-doing, acknowledging the force of habit, and our deficient proprioception. Theoretical
work includes daily reading from classics of AT literature. Specialist sessions devoted to
anatomy and physiology, vision, Dart procedures, voice and movement. Every effort is made to
include relevant topics requested by trainees. Each student gets intensive daily attention and
is gradually guided to develop hands-on work and other teaching skills.
New trainees may enrol at the beginning of any term.
LONDON
Prerequisites: A minimum of 30 lessons, some lessons with the head of training, plus a visit to
the course.
Curriculum: The purpose of the training is to develop an increase in sensory appreciation
through inhibition and direction and to apply this process to hands-on work. Each day consists
of individual work with different teachers, small group work with one teacher, class work using
"games" (simple movements guided by a teacher), and a lecture. The emphasis throughout the
course is to learn to explore your own use through games and activities. Hands-on skills will
be developed in small groups of three students with one teacher. The practical work will be
supplemented with the reading of relevant Alexander literature as well as anatomy and physiology
relevant to the practice of the Technique. The day-to-day teachers will be Karen, assisted by
Jean Fischer (qualified 1987) and Alison Harper (qualified 1990). There will be visiting senior
and junior teachers, and teachers with specialist skills, for example, in the fields of voice, singing,
creative movement, acting, horse riding, swimming and juggling.
LONDON
Prerequisites: Sound basis of Alexander lessons, a course of lessons with the Head of Training.
Curriculum: The practical curriculum (over 80% of the course) involves a continuing, cumulative programme
covering three basic themes, each of which is developed progressively throughout the course:
1 The improvement of the student's own self-awareness and use
All of these involve the understanding of at least the following of Alexander's basic concepts:
The precise work carried out by each student is determined by their own particular personal development.
However, ther is always a general progression along the following lines:
Year 1: consists largely of personal experiential work on self-awareness and improving the student's own
use of themselves on a daily basis. In addition there is a study/discussion of FM Alexander's books and other
authors, as well as anatomy, physiology and related topics.
LONDON
Prerequisites: A thorough course of instruction in the Technique on a basis of individual
lessons. Students are initially admitted for a probationary term during which they may withdraw
should they wish to do so. A term's fees, however, have to be paid in advance.
Curriculum: The work consists of the practical study of the principles of the Technique as
contained in the writings of FM Alexander. Instruction is usually given individually or in
small groups. A daily lecture is provided as an aid to the study of Mr Alexander's writings,
as well as relevant basic anatomy and physiology. A wide course of reading is recommended
according to the particular needs and interests of the individual concerned.
Students in their final term gain further experience by assisting in the first year class. After
graduation students are encouraged to remain for a post-graduate term, without fee, and for
which they receive nominal remuneration and the opportunity to gain further practical teaching
experience. The post-graduate term is not mandatory. The continuous professional development of
graduates is encouraged and supported by the provision of regular practical workshops.
LONDON
LCATT is situated in a large Victorian house in a tree lined avenue not far from Highbury Fields. It is within easy walking
distance from Highbury and Islington Tube station and is well served by many bus routes and the Silverlink train. The
course takes place in a light spacious double room and has the use of a kitchen and a terrace.
Prerequisites: Previous Alexander experience, lessons with the director and assistants and/or visit to the school,
application form.
Curriculum: LCATT is a small school offering a professional Alexander teacher training in an encouraging and lively
atmosphere. We are committed to supporting people through their process of change and development by offering a practical
context in which students gain a strong foundation for making the Alexander Technique a lifelong process. By teaching the
principles of the Alexander Technique it is our intention to inspire personal and professional resourcefulness, creativity,
maturity and independence, and to create good Alexander teachers.
The major part of the course is practical and its core content is the development of the student's own use and
self-awareness according to Alexander's principles of "inhibition and direction". The timetable includes lessons, "turns"
and directed activities with teachers and other students. A fundamental aspect of the training is that the students are
taught to work on themselves so that they can take this experience into their teaching lives afterwards.
Each term is loosely based on a theme of either something related to the Alexander Technique philosophy or some aspect of
the practical work.
There is a gradual introduction of "hands-on" skills taught in a variety of ways. Working through a range of "hands-on"
procedures students are taught to develop sensitivity in their touch and intuitive knowledge in their hands. They are
encouraged to experiment, and with the support of the teachers they can learn to explore and trust their intuition so that
they can find their own way through their personal Alexander development.
Added to this there is specific training in improving observation plus coaching in verbal and presentation skills. Time is
also given to doing vocal work and a number of specialist topics are covered by visiting teachers. Students are also given
an opportunity to learn to develop their own ideas for running groups and doing individual work within a group situation.
Towards the latter part of the course there are opportunities to work, under supervision, on members of the public to smooth
the transition to becoming independent teachers.
The theoretical part of the training includes the study of Alexander's books and other texts, anatomy, discussions,
videos/DVDs, presentations by students, writing of diaries and reports. Once a week we have a practical anatomy session
showing how the Alexander Technique makes sense of the intrinsic design of the body. The resource of "body mapping" is an
integral part of the teaching on the course. Students leave with a good sense of their own anatomical structure and how to
use this knowledge in their own teaching practices.
Students are expected to do a postgraduate teaching term after qualification, attending the school at least once a week, to
help their transition to becoming working Alexander teachers. There is also usually an opportunity for graduates to work
with teachers in their pratices at music or drama colleges or in group courses to gain further experience. By the end of the
training it is expected that students will have developed a knowledge and understanding of Alexander's principles through
their own use and their work with others so that they can continue their personal development and communicate the technique
to others by the use of their hands, as well as verbally, in an independent and professional manner.
LONDON
The ATTS is situated in the heart of London’s West End, opposite
Selfridges, and just off Oxford Street. The School is just a few
minutes walking distance from either Oxford Circus, Bond Street or
Marble Arch tube stations. There are also plenty of buses that serve
the area. The training takes place in a beautiful large studio room
with wooden floors, wall-to-wall mirrors, and there is an in-house
cafeteria.
Prerequisites: Students wishing to enroll on this course should be able
to demonstrate an interest and a sound understanding of the Alexander
Technique, and will have undertaken a reasonable number of private
Alexander lessons. Applicants will if possible visit the school, and
have lesson(s) and an interview with the Head of Training.
Curriculum: At least 80% of the training will be practical work, in
keeping with the fundamentally practical nature of the Technique. The
core curriculum is based on Alexander’s basic principles, and will
therefore cover the essential concepts of inhibition and directions,
the unity of mind and body, doing and non-doing, the force of habit and false sensory.
Each day there will be time for reading Alexander’s writings or other relevant material.
The philosophy of the training is to encourage a lively and open-minded
exploration of the Alexander Technique. We believe that the best
teachers develop a unique contribution to the Alexander world, and that
being faithful to the Alexander concepts does not require a sacrifice
of individual creativity. The aim of the training is for each student
to integrate within themselves the theory and practice of the Alexander
Technique.
In addition, experts will offer seminars in the following fields:
LONDON
Prerequisites: Some experience of learning the Technique. Interview and one or more lessons with the Head
of Training. Potential students are expected to visit the school before starting their training.
Curriculum: The class is kept small to ensure that each student gets adequate individual
attention. It is the policy of the school to take new students at the beginning of any term, as
students benefit from working daily with others of greater or lesser experience. The course
consists of practical and theoretical work in the Technique, supplemented by classes in anatomy
and physiology, and by regular discussion groups. Some written work is also required.
LONDON
WATC is in Covent Garden, in the middle of the West End Theatre-land where FM Alexander first made his reputation in
London: Leicester Square, Covent Garden, Charing Cross and Embankment Stations are all a few minutes walk away, and plenty
of buses serve the area. Classes take place primarily in the beautiful wood-panelled library of the Westminster Friends
Meeting House: there are kitchen facilities on site and many coffee shops and restaurants in the surrounding streets.
Prerequisites: Previous Alexander experience, some lessons with the director or assistants, or attendance at a WATC
residential course: application form on request.
Curriculum: WATC is due to open in September 2008. Suitable applicants may join the course at the beginning of any
term in which there is a vacancy.
Our ethos is to provide a high-quality and balanced programme of traditional Alexander Technique training - drawing on the
major lines of transmission - and to encourage experimentation and creativity in the development of one's own understanding
and practice.
To this end students will be encouraged to undertake their own lines of agreed research and to participate in residential
courses run bi-annually by WATC.
We recognise that teacher-trainees are adult learners and there will be plenty of scope to have some input into the course
structure and to discuss any problems or concerns they may have with the Head of Training and Main Assistant.
MANCHESTER
Prerequisites: Sound foundation in the Technique based on individual lessons. Completed
application form, interview and lesson(s) with Head of Training. A keen interest in music or other
performing arts is desirable, though not essential when all other considerations indicate
suitability.
Curriculum: The key aims are to facilitate the trainee's own process of learning enquiry, to
develop trainees' understanding of the core values and methods of Alexander's work, enabling them to
teach the Alexander Technique in an effective, open-minded, ethical and self-directed manner.
Daily class comprises mainly practical study of the Technique and its principles with directed
activities and instruction in small groups to develop teaching skills. Alexander's four books
form the core study material together with other writing on the Technique and related subjects
which include relevant aspects of anatomy and physiology, educational psychology, sports and
performing arts pedagogy, science-based studies in human potential etc. Trainees
will be required to complete course work and assignments. Visits to the course by
prior arrangement are welcome.
The School's association with the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) means that the needs of
professional musicians will be an important consideration for teaching practice in a trainee's
final year.
Modern, shared self-contained apartments in the RNCM students' hall of residence are available
to trainees.
OXFORDSHIRE
Prerequisites: A reasonable number of private lessons and interview with Head of Training.
Curriculum: Learning to work on yourself is the means whereby we gain improvement through the
Technique, and the secret to teaching the Technique is being able to work on yourself while
teaching. All lessons and turns from teachers are invitations to work on yourself. The class
setting is the ideal environment for all of this to take place, and the class sessions are the
heart of our training course. Structured into the course we also study Alexander's books and
other writings on the Technique, along with an anatomy course. With the emphasis on working on
yourself, hands-on and working on others comes slowly, but by the end of the course students
have moved through working on teachers, students and experienced pupils and supervised work on
beginners to working confidently with their own pupils. The usual pattern of the morning is a
class session, with a mid-morning break followed by a discussion period, followed by a return
to the main hall for more time in class. Visitors are made welcome, giving class an open nature
and broadening the experience of the students.
SUSSEX (EAST)
Website: www.alexander-technique-college.com
Head of Training: Carolyn Nicholls BA (Hons), MA, MSTAT (Carrington 1982)
We are right beside Hove station, close to cafes, parks and local shops. Bus links to Brighton
centre and rail links to London and South East.
Application process: Contact the Head of Training. We like you to spend some time with us if
possible.
Accreditation: The Open College Network accredits the course at Level 4+. Successful graduates
will receive a credit based qualification from the Open College Network, in addition to the
STAT and training college certificate.
Curriculum: Our work is based on Carolyn’s Masters work on the skill of
using the hands as an Alexander Teacher. We have an organised timetable
of practical tuition comprising individual work, hands-on groups
(appropriate to trainees' level), directed activities and private
lessons. Throughout the three years there is on-going study of FM's
writings and other writing on the Technique, plus study of basic
anatomy and physiology, and the concepts underlying the Technique.
The pattern of progress over the three years is roughly as follows:
The College offers a postgraduate pathway course (2 part residential)
to existing teachers to acquire the OCN recognition.
We also offer postgraduate training, which can be arranged on an
individual basis according to need and circumstances. Postgraduates
participate fully in the timetable and study periods can vary from a
week to a year or more.
The College offers a professional and supportive atmosphere and allows
individuals to learn and grow at their own page. The main focus of
improving your own use is the foundation for all future work and
teaching.
Prerequisites:
A basic understanding of the principles of the Alexander Technique and a real enthusiasm for the subject. This can be gained from
individual Alexander lessons, group-work and reading books on the technique. At least one visit to the school (no charge) is recommended
and an interview and lesson with the Head of Training. New trainees can enrol in September or January
Structure:
This course is based on student-centred learning. The atmosphere is relaxed, caring and friendly and students are encouraged to ask
questions and experiment while under supervision to further their learning. The course includes daily individual sessions, learning in
small mixed groups, and whole group work. There will be a minimum of two individual tutorials a year. The course content is split into
about 80% practical and 20% theoretical.
Curriculum:
The curriculum contains all aspects of the theory and practice of The Alexander Principles including:
Second and third year trainees work individually with first years as well as with each other. In the final year the third
years give an individual lesson to first years every day. During their last year, trainees progress to giving lessons to
members of the public under supervision in class time. At the end of each year there is a week-long residential course
where second and third year students have a chance to work with members of the public with real health problems (backache,
asthma, arthritis, etc) while under supervision. There is also an opportunity to work with students and members of the
public at Galway and Limerick Universities.
There is a small amount of home study of Alexander’s four books and one essay per term.
Prerequisites:Ordinarily applicants will have had a number of private lessons, will
have an understanding of what the work entails and be motivated to train.
Curriculum:
From 9.00 to 10.45 each day students work on themselves, receive 'turns'
(short individual lessons) and have 'hands-on' (classes in teaching) in
groups of three. After a break of half an hour the class continues with
'games' which may explore developmental movement, a particular procedure,
voice work, group work, or an application of the Technique to a particular
activity. FM Alexander's books are read and discussed as is other
relevent material and basic anatomy and physiology. The class finishes at
12.30. Students also receive 9 private lessons of 30 minutes per term.
AUSTRIA
Prerequisites: A reasonable number of Alexander lessons and/or group courses, plus an interview
and private lesson with head of training.
Curriculum: A typical morning's work might include: individual hands-on work with the director or assistant teachers,
learning practical and verbal teaching skills under supervision in small groups, reading and discussion of Alexander's
books or other relevant literature, basic anatomy, physiology and neurology, application of Alexander Technique principles
to everyday or more specialised activities ("directed activities").
Alexander ReEducation Centre
68 Wantage Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG30 2SF
Telephone: 07733 253 056 Enquiries: anytime
To email visit: www.alexanderteachertraining.org/contact.asp
Website: www.alexanderteachertraining.org
Head of Training: Ronald Colyer (Carrington 1982)
Three 10 week terms per year
Course hours: 9.45am to 1.15pm Monday to Friday
Founded 1987, 36 graduates to date, 10 current trainees
Tuition fees: £3450 per year
1 'Mini' lesson to improve use.
2 Application work - exploring movement with the use of inhibition and direction to promote
the Primary Control.
3 Hands on sessions, following "standard training" procedures with chair and table work.
4 A study of the following: Writings of Alexander, anatomy, postural reflexes.
Bristol Alexander Technique Training School Association
School: Long Ashton Girl Guides' HQ, Weston Road, Long Ashton, Bristol.
Telephone: 01275 394 339 (mornings, Monday to Thursday)
Telephone: 01761 439 904
E-mail: caroline@battsa.co.uk
Website: www.battsa.co.uk
Director of Training: Caroline Chalk
Assistants: Belinda May and Colin Tully
Three 10 to 12 week terms
Course hours: 08.45 to 13.00 Monday to Thursday
Founded 1988 (non prifit making asociation since 1990)
Tuition fees: £1300 per term
45 graduates to date, 9 current trainees
The Alexander Technique School of Cornwall
40 Gwithian Towans, Hayle, Cornwall TR27 5BT
Telephone: 01736 759 526 Fax: 01736 360 149 Enquiries: anytime
Email: denysstephens@compuserve.com
Head of Training: Dick Gilbert (Carrington) assistant: Mrs Enni Aino Mirjami Lakkala
Three 12 week terms
Course hours: Monday to Thursday: 9.30 to 13.30, Friday: 9.30 to 14.00
Founded 2000
Tuition fees: £3000 per year
7 current students
Cumbria Alexander Training
Fellside Centre, Low Fellside, Kendal, Cumbria LA9 4NH
Telephone: 01539 733 045 or 01539 531 781 Fax: 01539 724 684 Enquiries: anytime
Email: jamie@fellside.f9.co.uk or michaelhardwicke@compuserve.com
Website: www.fmalexandertechnique.co.uk
Heads of Training: Jamie McDowell (Burton 1983)
Michael Hardwick (Carrington/Burton 1988)
Three 12 week terms
Course hours: Monday: 12.00 to 16.30, Tuesday to Thursday: 09.30 to 14.00
Founded 1986
35 graduates to date, 17 current trainees
Tuition fees: £3600 per year
Centre for Constructive Awareness and Related Education - CCARE
Bowden House, Totnes, Devon
Correspondence and calls:
Telephone: 08454 580 135 (Local rate)
Email: ccare.danny@googlemail.com
Website: www.ccare.uk.com
Head of Training: Daniel McGowan (Haahr 1983)
Assistant: Sarah Paice (Haahr 1988)
Three 12 week terms
Course hours: Monday to Thursday: 9.45 to 13.30
Founded 2002
Tuition fees: £4200 per year
9 current students
New Directions Training Course in the Alexander Technique
This training course is registered with the DfES
Ellishaye Studio, Honiton, Devon
Correspondence and calls: Fran Robinson, New Directions Training Course, Hill Farm House,
Lamberts Castle, Marshwood, Dorset DT6 5QJ
Telephone: 00 44 (0)1297 678168 Enquiries: anytime
Email: info@fran-robinson.co.uk
Website: www.fran-robinson.co.uk and follow links to New Directions Training Course
Heads of Training: Fran Robinson (Peter Scott 1978)
Assistant teachers: Jenny Sampson and Helen Gibson West
Visiting teachers: Sally Tottle and others
Three 12 week terms per year
Course hours: Monday to Thursday, from 0900 to 12.45
There may be occasional variations to this which will be timetabled in advance.
Founded 2007
Tuition fees: £3900 per year
Previous Training Course held in Italy between 1989 and 1993
3 current trainees
This Training Course gives equal emphasis to the three main requirements necessary for a comprehensive
teacher training.
1, The ‘technical’ aspect of the work
This is the ability to use the hands creatively and non-invasively.
This includes not only the understanding of the concepts and ability to explain them clearly both verbally and in writing,
but also an appreciation of the psychological and emotional impact of increasing involvement in this work.
encourages students to explore and expand their communication skills so they can creatively teach their future pupils
a) to understand the ideas upon which the Technique is based and
b) to teach them how to bring these ideas consciously and actively into their daily lives.
To give students the opportunity to practise the Technique in different situations (for example dancing, tai’chi, Pilates
exercise, riding etc) experts from other activities will be invited to visit the Course.
Foundation Year
The main emphasis of the first three terms is Work on the Self. Students develop the work that they have done in their
private lessons prior to commencing the training, and if they are considered ready to do so, begin hands on work on their
fellow students under supervision.
While Work on the Self continues as a basis for this year’s work, the emphasis of terms four to six is on students
developing their hands-on sensitivity and developing a deeper understanding of the relevance of different “classical”
Alexander procedures. Students will also be encouraged to experiment, connect and apply what they are learning with other
life activities.
While hands-on skills continue to develop, students are actively encouraged to develop the teaching and communication
aspects of the Alexander Technique, for both individual pupils and in Group work. To this end, students in their seventh
and eighth term are expected to develop their communication skills and are encouraged to work with visiting pupils to whom
they will explain the concepts of the Technique.
While no formal qualifications are required, it is expected that all students will have had a minimum of 25 private lessons
prior to training. Entry to the Course will be subject to interview by the Director – this may include some hands on work.
In the case of students from outside England, the interview may be waived on receipt of a fully detailed CV, letter of
application including reasons for wishing to undertake the training and name and address of an Alexander Teacher to whom
reference can be made.
Qualification will be granted on the basis of continuous assessment by the Director and other staff. Prior to qualification
however, students will need to have satisfactorily completed the written and practical work requirements of the Course, and
to have a satisfactory level of attendance throughout the three-year Course. Students not considered ready to qualify
within the allotted period may be given the opportunity to extend the duration of their studies, (if appropriate at a pro
rata fee). Should this be considered necessary as much notice as possible will be given. Those who successfully complete
the three year training course will receive their certificate of qualification from the Course and will be authorised to
teach the Alexander Technique and proposed as teaching members of STAT.
Essex Alexander School
65 Norfolk Road, Seven Kings, Ilford, Essex IG3 8LJ
Telephone: 020 8220 1630 Enquiries: evenings and weekends
Email: ken_thompson@lineone.net
Website: www.essexalexanderschool.co.uk
Head of Training: Ken Thompson (Carrington 1979)
Named assistant: Sandra Waller (Essex Alexander School 2000)
Three 10 week terms per year
Course hours: Monday to Friday: 09.00 to 13.00
Founded 1988
Tuition fees: £3600 per year
50 graduates to date, 5 current trainees
Alexander Technique School, Queen's Park
5 Milman Road, Queen's Park, London NW6 6EN
Telephone: 020 8969 5356 Enquiries: Evenings
Head of Training: Ilana Machover (Magidov 1984)
Email: queensparkat@ntlworld.com
Website: http://homepage.ntlworld.com/ilana.m/
Three terms per year
Course hours: 09.00 to 13.00 Monday to Thursday
Founded 2004
Tuition fees: £3750 per year
8 current trainees
The Alexander Technique Studio
6 Ravenslea Road, Wandsworth Common, London SW12 8SB
Telephone: 020 8673 3853 Enquiries: Evenings
Head of Training: Ms Karen Wentworth (Carrington 1977)
Website: www.atstudio.co.uk
Three 13 week terms
Course hours: 08.45 to 12.15 Monday to Friday
Founded 1997
Tuition fees: £3600 per year
Centre for the Alexander Technique
46 Stevenage Road, London SW6 6HA
Telephone: 020 7731 6348 Enquiries: 12.45 to 20.00
Co-Heads of Training: Eleanor Ribeaux (Patrick Macdonald 1968) and
Peter Ribeaux (Patrick Macdonald 1965)
Email: peter@ribeaux.com
Website: www.ribeaux.com
Three terms per year
Course hours: Monday to Friday: 09.00 to 12.30
Founded 1984
Tuition fees: £4500 per year
70 graduates to date, 9 current trainees
2 The study of specific procedures devised by Alexander and others
3 The application of the student's improved use of the self in relation to teaching others
Recognition of wrong habits of use
The processes of inhibition and direction
The primary control
Year 2: continues the curriculum of the first year together with, in addition, work with other students and
visitors with guidance from teachers and senior students.
Year 3 continues the curriculum of previous years, as well as the possibility of giving lessons to selected
pupils under supervision.
The Constructive Teaching Centre
18 Lansdowne Road, Holland Park, London W11 3LL
Email: constructiveteachingcentre@gmail.com
Website: www.alexandertek.com
Telephone: 020 7727 7222 Fax: 020 7313 9882 Enquiries: 09.30-11.30 and 15.30 - 17.30
Visits by potential applicants welcome by prior arrangement.
Co-heads of training: Dilys Carrington (Carrington 1960) and Ruth Murray (Carrington 1980)
Three 12 week terms per year
Course hours:
Terms 1 - 4: 09.30 to 12.30 Monday to Friday, terms 5 to 9: 11.30 to 15.30 Monday to Friday
Founded by Walter Carrington as a continuation of the course started by FM Alexander in 1931.
Tuition fees: £3900 + 17.5% VAT per year
397 graduates to date, 36 current trainees
London Centre for Alexander Technique and Training (LCATT)
137 Grosvenor Avenue, Highbury, London N5 2NH
Telephone: 020 7226 1815
Email: refiasacks@lcatt.org.uk
Website: www.lcatt.org.uk
Head of Training: Refia Sacks (ATA 1982)
Assisted by: Judith Kleinman (Kamanitz 1989), Roger Kidd (Carrington 1992)
Moderator: Elizabeth Atkinson
Course Hours: The course runs for three years with three terms per year.
There are four days per week (Monday to Thursday) for four hours each day:
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 09.00 to 13.00, Tuesday from 13.00 to 17.00
Founded: January 2003
Tuition Fees: £4200 per year
14 graduates to date, 8 students in training at present.
The Alexander Teacher Training School
The centre for psychophysical education
16 Balderton Street, London W1K 6TN
Telephone: (day) 020 7629 1808 or (evening) 020 7328 6103
Course hours: 09.00 to 13.00 Tuesday to Friday
Email: anthony@alexanderteacher.co.uk
Website: www.alexanderteacher.co.uk
Head of training: Anthony Kingsley (Shmuel Nelkin, 1986)
Founded: 2004
Tuition Fees: £4725 per year
8 graduates
12 current trainees
Basic anatomy, physiology and pathology.
Professionalism and ethics.
People skills, mind-body explorations.
Alexander, music and the performing arts.
Victoria Training Course for the Alexander Technique
50a Belgrave Road, London SW1V 1RH
Telephone: 020 7821 7916 Enquiries: 09.30 to 12.30
Head of Training: Shoshana Kaminitz (Patrick Macdonald 1963)
Three 13 week terms
Course hours: 09.30 to 12.30 Monday to Friday
Founded 1987 (Continuation of course established in 1957 by Patrick Macdonald)
Tuition fees: £3900 per year
39 graduates to date, 7 current trainees
Westminster Alexander Training Course
8 Hop Gardens, St Martins Lane, London WC2N 4EH
Telephone: 020 7240 2118
Email: teachertraining@the-alexander-technique.eu
Head of Training: John Hunter (Magidov, 1984)
Main Assistant: Dorothea Magonet (Magidov, 1983)
Teaching Staff: Glynn MacDonald, Howard Sykes, Philippa Castell, Charlotte Rolleston-Smith, Rosalind Simon
STAT Moderator: Lucia Walker
Three 12 week terms per year with half-term week off
Course hours: 08.00 to 11.45, Tuesday to Friday
Tuition fees: £4200 per year
New school opening September 2008
Manchester Alexander Technique Training School
Correspondence: Malcolm Williamson (MATTS)
Flat 25, Thorne House, 279 Wilmslow Road, Manchester, M14 6DW
School: Royal Northern College of Music, 124 Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9RD
Telephone and Fax: +44 (0) 161 224 1112
Email: williamm@rncm.ac.uk
Website: www.alextechteaching.org.uk
Head of Training: Malcolm Williamson (Carrington 1984)
Assistant: Nigel Evans
Course hours: Monday to Thursday 08.45 to 12.45
Founded: 2001
Tuition fees: £4380 per year
15 graduates to date
Oxford Alexander Training School
10 York Road, Headington, Oxford OX3 8NW
Telephone: 01865 765 511 Enquiries: anytime
Email: S.C@btinternet.com
Website: www.alexandertrainingoxford.co.uk
Head of Training: Stephen Cooper (Scott/Barlow 1979)
Assistant: Azize Stirling
Three 11-week terms a year
Course hours: Monday to Friday: 09.15 to 12.30
Founded: 1994
Tuition fees: £4050 per year
31 graduates to date
The Alexander Technique College (Brighton and Hove)
The Rox School of Dance and Drama
Unit 3, Hove Business Centre, Fonthill Road, Brighton and Hove, BN3 6HA
Telephone: 01273 562 595
Email: carolyn.nicholls@btinternet.com
Accredited by The Open College Network (Hampshire Isle of Wight and Sussex)
Career Development Loans available
Registered UK Learning Provider.
Course hours: 09.00 to 13.30 Monday to Thursday
Founded 1990
Tuition fees: £4500 per year
53 graduates to date (plus 22 graduates from previous course in Australia)
20 current trainees
Year 1: Improve own self-awareness and use. Begin step-by-step graduated programme of learning
to use hands.
Year 2: Build on foundation of first year to develop manual skills and
physical procedures. We anticipate that by the end of the second year a
trainee will be competent in practising hands-on skills with a fellow
student.
Year 3: Orientation towards becoming a teacher. Practicalities;
exercises to develop verbal and written fluency in lesson situations,
introductory talks and workshops, promotional literature etc.
The Alexander Technique Centre
Kirkullen Lodge, Tooreeny, Moycullen, Co Galway, Ireland
Telephone: 00353 91 555800 (within Republic of Ireland) 091 555800 Enquiries welcome anytime
Email: richardkbrennan@eircom.net
Website: www.alexander.ie
Head of Training: Richard Brennan (Haahr, Collins, Haahr 1989)
Assistant : Michaela Wohlgemuth-Downes (Charlsen 2000)
Dates: 3 terms varying between 10 and 12 weeks
Autumn: mid September to mid December, Spring: early January to Easter, Summer: Easter to end of June
Times: Tuesday 14.00 to 18.00, Wednesday 09.30 to 16.00, Thursday 09.30 to 13.30, Friday 09.30 to 11.00
Founded 2007
Tuition Fees: €1900 per term
There are currently 13 trainees
This is achieved by employing the following methods:
There is plenty of emphasis on improving teaching techniques during the hands-on observation work, and verbal instruction during a wide
range of activities.
ARGENTINA
Escuela de Tecnica Alexander de Buenos Aires (ETABA)
Calle Angel J Carranza 1190, Capital Federal, Buenos Aires 1414, Argentina
Telephone: + 54 (0)11 47729072
Email: merran@merran.net
Head of Training: Merran Poplar (Carrington 1994)
Assistants: Pablo Coria
Course hours: Monday to Friday: 09.00 to 12.30 Three terms per year
Tuition Fees: 12000 pesos per year excluding STAT membership.
Founded 2006
9 Current students
Alexander Technique Teacher Training Centre
c/o Johann Strauss Gasse 4/3/20, 1040 Vienna, Austria
Telephone: + 43 (0) 1 504 3262 Enquiries: anytime
Mobile: + 43 (0)676 9414212
Email: michael.parkinson@chello.at
Website: www.alexandertechniquecentrevienna.com
Head of Training: Michael Parkinson (Carrington 1979)
Course hours: Monday to Thursday: 09.00 to 12.45
Tuition fees: €4560 per year excluding STAT membership and moderation fee
Founded 1996
Maximum number of students: eight
Students in their final term may work under supervision with friends from outside the class. Graduates are welcome to visit
the class at any time after completion of the course and are encouraged to do so as part of their ongoing professional
development. We frequently receive, and much welcome, visits from teachers and trainees from other schools. The working
languages in the class are German and English.