If unity seems in short supply at the moment…

The discovery of unity goes hand-in-hand with the search for our own true nature, our Self, who we truly are.

So if it seems we could use a bit more unity right now, maybe there’s something you can do. Join a philosophy group!

Over the past 40 years, hundreds of people from across Hertfordshire have enjoyed and benefitted from our evening courses in Practical Philosophy. You may have been one of them. 

If so, you'll remember the Awareness Exercise, and the real, practical value of simple practices such as pausing between actions, or asking yourself "what would a wise person do here?"

You may remember the weekly group as a precious opportunity to take time out to consider some of the ‘big questions’ that are so important in these troubled and uncertain times.

We particularly like to welcome back former students, who, for one reason or another, weren't able to continue, but wanted to return one day.

This term, we'll be looking at the important aspect of Presence of Mind (see a full synopsis of the course on our website).

Enrol before the start of term (17 September 2019) to qualify for our Early Bird rate of £90 instead of the usual £100. The fee covers the whole of the eleven week term and the group meets every Tuesday, with a break for half-term.

You can book your place NOW by purchasing your ticket on this page - scroll back up.

If on the other hand you have yet to experience one of our courses, why not come along to our next Open Evening and free taster session. You can book your place now.

Alternatively, you can register your interest and receive further information about our courses via our website www.PhilosophyInStAlbans.org.

What better time than now to meet new people, learn something new, and explore how we can all feel a bit more unified?

FAQs

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Minimum age 16, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

There is usually ample free parking available in Upper Lattimore Road and Marlborough Gate (see map). The exceptions are when Loreto College has a big event. We will generally try to let our students know about these and give suggestions of alternative places to park.

We are also convenient for buses or trains (Luton, Harpenden, Radlett etc.) being just a 5 minute walk from St Albans City station and buses.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

We genuinely welcome enquiries and questions. Email philosophy.course@ntlworld.com. It may take up to 24 hours to get back to you.

What's the refund policy?

Where we charge course fees upfront and you find the course is just not for you (this is rare, but can still happen from time-to-time) or a change in circumstances prevents you from completing the course for whatever reason, we happily give a full refund for the remaining weeks of the course – no quibbles!

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No. We will be expecting you. We will ask you just to complete an enrolment form with a few additional contact details when you arrive on the first evening.

Is my ticket transferrable?

If you find that you need to transfer your fee or ticket, we would normally be happy to arrange this, but would appreciate knowing in advance. Please contact us (see above).

Why are the fees so low? What's the catch?!

You will find the cost compares favourably with evening courses by other organisations. This is simply because our School has always operated on a voluntary basis, on the principle that no one is paid for their work in teaching philosophy and no one profits financially.

In essence, the fees are just to cover the cost of hiring rooms, administration, local advertising etc. 

Is it ok if the name on my ticket or registration doesn't match the person who attends?

See transfer question above.

When do the meetings start and end?

Meetings begin promptly at 7.30pm (please aim to be seated by 7.25), finish around 9.40pm and include a short break for refreshments.

Can you say more about the Course and weekly meetings?
While the course is a Philosophy course, not a Mindfulness course as such, mindfulness and attention have always been core features of our courses: practices and exercises designed to develop awareness and inner stillness are introduced from the very first evening, primarily as an aid to observation, discovery and learning as we go about our daily life.

Each week, we discuss ideas from some of the world's great philosophical teachings, eastern and western. We don't try to cover all the main philosophies or philosophers; instead we draw on those found in practice to be most conducive to the discovery of happiness and truth.

The classes are not just an academic exploration – nor are they a 'talking shop' for intellectual debate. (And, by the way, there are no exams and no previous knowledge of philosophy is required). The emphasis is on the practical: we try to ensure the discussions are always relevant and useful to our daily lives. This is because real understanding, or wisdom, can only come when these ideas are tried out and applied in our daily life and we discover their value for ourselves.

At each meeting you'll be given a simple practice to try out during the following week. This includes, for example, a simple, highly effective awareness or mindfulness exercise in allowing the attention to rest with each of the senses in turn. Then at the next class the group is invited to give observations on what you discovered in the light of the practice.

What if I can't attend every week?

Of course, we encourage regular attendance, but missing one or even two evenings is not normally a problem as each week we give a brief recap of the previous week. We also provide a detailed handout for each week, which captures the key points.

What kinds of people attend the course?
Our students have not typically studied philosophy before.

The courses attract a diverse range of people in terms of backgrounds, ages, gender, beliefs etc. Everyone is welcome. This genuine diversity  - and the richness of experience that this lends to the discussions - is something many of our students really appeciate.

All that's asked is that everyone behaves in an appropriate manner and practises tolerance and respect for their fellow students. It's a friendly and supportive environment and most people find the course really interesting and beneficial in some way.