Sanity is privileged over insanity, which is stigmatized. A therapoet views differences without hierarchy, valuing each unique expression. We aim to explore the lived experiences on irregular perceptions of reality with an open mind. Each Saturday includes: a live dialogue between Prof. Ernesto Spinelli and an International Existential Therapist; a moment to share your thoughts and feelings with the teachers; and a final integration facilitated by Bárbara Godoy. This series of ten dialogues set out to explore the multifaceted dimentions and complexities associated with Existential Therapies. It attempts to engage with various interpretations of insanity through the lens of patients often painful, confounding, and deeply unsettling life experiences. Difference - between Prof. Ernesto Spinelli and Dr. Todd DuBose "Sanity and insanity have been situated in relation to each other on a hierarchical scale that privileges sanity over, beyond, above, and more than its “less than” subjugated copy, insanity. Framed in this way, insanity can only be stigmatized, devalued and pathologized, while sanity is that to which we are to strive, uphold, and genuflect. The therapoet as a phenomenological hermeneutic horizontalizes a spectrum of “sayings of suffering souls”, or “befallings”, which is the originally meaning of “symptom”, not as a pathogen to be excised. Countering supremacist hierarchies of sanity/insanity, or health/illness, the therapoet sees difference, not as deficient, but just different, anew, and not in relation to any centric norm, but just to other differences. The relation to other differences is a relative gradation, whose incomparability resists any kind of nothing-but-ism any more than a fish can be said to be nothing but a squirrel with fins, or dirt as nothing but dry water. The therapoet, therefore, attends to each showing or saying of the suffering soul, sufficient in itself, as it is, in its own way of presencing, by being with it, letting it be, without why.” Dr. Todd DuBose. Dr. Todd DuBose is a world-renowned, Distinguished Full Professor at The Chicago School’s College of Professional Psychology. He teaches philosophical foundations of practices of care, ethics, loss and mourning, psychology and spirituality, psychopathology, among other courses, all from a human science perspective, and with a particular focus on therapoetic care. He is a licensed psychologist, supervisor, consultant, and former chaplain, with over thirty-five years of experience. He holds degrees in continental and comparative philosophy of religion and existential-hermeneutical-phenomenological human science clinical psychology and integrates these approaches as a way of caring for such experiences as the impossible (no way out, boundary or limited situations), extreme experiences (such as psychosis, nihilism, suicidal and homicidal ideation), and the taboo (the places no one wants to go: the unwanted and unacceptable, unsayable, unforgiveable, forbidden, and irreverent). He regularly presents workshops in several international venues such as the Circulo de Estudios en Psicoterapia Existential, in Mexico City, Mexico, the Zhi Mian International Institute of Existential-Humanistic Psychology in Dali, China, and the Centre for Existential Practice in Melbourne, Australia. He is widely published and has written on caring for others in very difficult situations including traumatic loss, surviving the COVID-19 pandemic, and meaninglessness. He has also written a short dialogue with Miles Groth, edited by Loray Daws, called, Dialogues on The Soul of Existential Therapy, published by The Society for Existential Analysis. Most of all, he considers himself simply a fellow human being. Prof. Ernesto Spinelli was Chair of the Society for Existential Analysis between 1993 and 1999 and is a Life Member of the Society. His writings, lectures and seminars focus on the application of existential phenomenology to the arenas of therapy, supervision, psychology, and executive coaching. He is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society (BPS) as well as an APECS accredited executive coach and coaching supervisor. In 2000, he was the Recipient of BPS Division of Counselling Psychology Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Profession. And in 2019, Ernesto received the BPS Award for Distinguished Contribution to Practice. His most recent book, Practising Existential Therapy: The Relational World 2nd edition (Sage, 2015) has been widely praised as a major contribution to the advancement of existential theory and practice. Living up to the existential dictum that life is absurd, Ernesto is also the author of an on-going series of Private Eye novels. Date and Time: Saturday 22 March from 2 pm to 3 pm – (UK time) Individual Dialogue Fee: £70 Venue: Online Zoom FULL PROGRAMME 2025: 25 January “Knots” with Prof. Ernesto Spinelli and Bárbara Godoy 22 February “Healing” with Dr. Michael Guy Thompson and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 22 March “Difference” with Prof. Tod DuBose and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 12 April “Polarisation” with Prof. Kirk Schneider and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 3 May “Character” with Prof. Robert Romanyshyn and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 21 June “Opening” with Dr. Yaqui Martinez and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 19 July “Meaning” with Dr. Jan Resnick and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 25 October “Invention” with Dr. Betty Cannon and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 15 November “Hallucination” with Prof. Simon du Plock and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli 13 December “Hysteria” with Bárbara Godoy and Prof. Ernesto Spinelli Read the full programme here > Course Organised by:
Course Overview This comprehensive Driving Instructor course is designed to equip aspiring instructors with the theoretical knowledge and confidence needed to guide learners through the process of becoming safe, responsible drivers. Covering key concepts such as structured driver education, understanding the ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) exam framework, and addressing diverse learner needs, this course offers a solid foundation for those looking to enter the instructional field. Learners will explore communication strategies, assessment techniques, and legal considerations surrounding driving education. By the end of the course, participants will have a clear understanding of the standards and responsibilities required to support individuals in achieving driving competency and gaining their licence. Whether you're seeking a career change or aiming to formalise existing knowledge, this course ensures you’re well-prepared for professional advancement in the driver education industry. Course Description This Driving Instructor course delves into the core principles of driver education, focusing on the responsibilities and expectations placed upon instructors. Learners will explore the structure of the UK’s ADI exam system, learn how to design effective lesson plans, and understand how to assess learners across different vehicle types and driving conditions. Special attention is given to communication methods, working with clients who have impairments or disabilities, and building a learner-centred approach to instruction. The curriculum also examines legal and ethical standards relevant to the profession, offering insights into delivering consistent, compliant instruction. By understanding how to adapt sessions to various learning styles and needs, learners will develop the capability to support diverse clients in their journey towards independent driving. The course is ideal for those looking to enter the industry with confidence and clarity, supported by structured knowledge aligned with UK standards. Course Modules: Module 01: The Driving Instructor Module 02: Structured Driver Training Module 03: The ADI Exams Module 04: Communication Skills and Dealing with a New Client Module 05: Learning to Drive Module 06: Driving Large Vehicles Module 07: Assessment Items Module 08: Disabilities and Impairments (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to become certified driving instructors in the UK. Professionals aiming to transition into the driver training industry. Beginners with an interest in road safety and driver education. Career changers and retired drivers looking for flexible employment options. Career Path Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) Fleet Driver Trainer Driving School Franchise Owner Corporate Driver Education Specialist Road Safety Consultant
Course Overview The SEN Teaching Assistant Level 7 course offers a comprehensive exploration of Special Educational Needs (SEN) support within educational settings. Designed to enhance both foundational knowledge and specialised understanding, this programme equips learners with the expertise to assist pupils with diverse needs, from cognitive and communication challenges to social, emotional, and sensory difficulties. By undertaking this course, learners will develop the competence to contribute meaningfully to inclusive education environments, supporting teachers and fostering positive learning experiences for students with SEN. The course places strong emphasis on evidence-based teaching strategies, effective collaboration with parents and professionals, and the promotion of pupil well-being and achievement. By the end of the course, learners will have gained valuable insights into SEN frameworks, support structures, and methodologies that can be applied within primary, secondary, and special education contexts, positioning them for success in supportive educational roles. Course Description The SEN Teaching Assistant Level 7 course delves deeply into the key areas necessary for understanding and supporting learners with Special Educational Needs. Covering SEN legislation, support strategies, high-quality teaching techniques, and effective communication approaches, the course offers a thorough grounding in current best practices. Learners will explore how to identify and respond to different types of needs, including cognitive impairments, emotional and mental health challenges, and physical or sensory disabilities. In addition, the course highlights the importance of partnership working with families, educators, and external agencies. Designed to offer a rich and engaging learning experience, the programme combines theoretical frameworks with applied strategies for fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments. Participants will develop the confidence and knowledge required to play a vital role in the academic and social development of students with SEN, preparing them for rewarding opportunities in the education sector. Course Modules Module 01: Special Education Needs (SEN) An Overview Module 02: SEN Support Module 03: High Quality Teaching for Pupils with SEN Module 04: SEN Teaching Methodologies Module 05: Communication and Interaction Module 06: Cognition and Learning Module 07: Social, Emotional and Mental Health Difficulties Module 08: Sensory or Physical Needs Module 09: Working in Partnership (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to build a career supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs. Professionals aiming to strengthen their expertise in inclusive education practices. Beginners with an interest in educational support and SEN frameworks. Teaching assistants and school support staff wishing to enhance their SEN knowledge. Career changers exploring opportunities in the education and support sector. Career Path SEN Teaching Assistant Learning Support Assistant Behaviour Support Assistant Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) Assistant Inclusion Support Worker Pastoral Support Assistant Educational Support Officer
Course Overview The 120 Hours TEFL (TESOL) Masterclass is a comprehensive programme designed for individuals aspiring to teach English as a foreign or second language. This course provides a robust foundation in teaching methodologies, linguistics, grammar, pronunciation, and classroom management. Learners will develop the confidence and competence needed to deliver engaging and effective English lessons across diverse cultural and educational settings. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the theoretical knowledge and instructional strategies to teach English successfully to learners of all ages and proficiency levels. This qualification opens the door to teaching opportunities worldwide, enhancing employability in an ever-expanding global market. Whether seeking to start a new career, travel while teaching, or advance existing skills, this course offers valuable expertise and an internationally recognised credential. Course Description This professionally structured TEFL (TESOL) Masterclass covers all the essential aspects of English language teaching. Modules explore topics such as second language acquisition, teaching receptive and productive skills, lesson planning, classroom management, and the integration of technology into teaching. Learners will gain a solid grounding in linguistics, master techniques for teaching grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and discover innovative ways to motivate students through games and activities. Throughout the course, participants will build essential skills for creating dynamic learning environments and adapting teaching methods to different learner needs. With a focus on academic excellence and professional development, this course prepares learners for a rewarding career in English language teaching across schools, private institutions, and online platforms. Upon completion, learners will possess a deep understanding of English teaching practices, ready to inspire students and contribute meaningfully to educational communities around the world. Course Modules Module 01: Introduction to English Language Teaching and Learning Module 02: Linguistics Module 03: English Pronunciation Module 04: Teaching Grammar and Vocabulary Module 05: Language Teaching Methodologies Module 06: Teaching Receptive Skills: Reading Module 07: Teaching Productive Skills: Writing Module 08: Teaching Receptive Skills: Listening Module 09: Teaching Productive Skills: Speaking Module 10: Lesson Planning Module 11: Use of Games and Activities Module 12: Technology in Second Language Teaching Learning Module 13: Classroom Management and Student Motivation Module 14: Teaching English: Situational Approach Module 15: Professional Development and Employment (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to teach English to speakers of other languages. Professionals aiming to transition into the education sector or broaden their teaching credentials. Beginners with an interest in English language teaching and global communication. Travellers and expatriates looking to pursue international teaching opportunities. Recent graduates considering a career in education and language instruction. Career Path English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Teacher English as a Second Language (ESL) Instructor Online English Tutor Academic English Teacher English Language Programme Coordinator English Curriculum Developer Private Language Institute Teacher International School English Teacher
I cover a range of subjects, including mathematics, English and science, as well as targeted preparation for entrance exams such as the 11 plus, ISEB, and more. Additionally, I provide focused support for verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning assessments. Importantly, all tuition is bespoke, tailored to your child's unique learning needs and requirements. My goal is to offer comprehensive assistance tailored to the primary education curriculum and specific entrance requirements. I also support children in their transition to secondary school through secondary private tuition and GCSE private tuition in certain subjects. I can always recommend excellent private tutors if I am not able to support a particular subject, so get in touch!
Course Overview The British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1 & 2 course offers a comprehensive foundation for learners keen to develop effective communication skills within the Deaf community. This course covers key vocabulary, everyday conversations, and cultural understanding across two recognised qualification levels. Through engaging modules, learners will build confidence in signing across a range of topics including greetings, family, transport, work, health, and leisure activities. The course provides a flexible learning experience, enabling learners to study at their own pace while gradually advancing from basic to more complex sign language structures. By the end of the course, learners will be able to confidently engage in conversations, describe people, express opinions, and interpret dialogues with greater fluency. Whether for personal growth, professional development, or community involvement, this course equips learners with the communication tools needed to create more inclusive and supportive environments for Deaf individuals. Course Description The British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1 & 2 course is structured to guide learners through a progressive journey, starting with the alphabet, fingerspelling, and simple daily interactions, before advancing to complex dialogues and storytelling. Key topics include family life, the home environment, weather, transport, work, hobbies, shopping, health, and holidays. Learners will engage with a variety of video dialogues—both with and without voice-over and subtitles—designed to enhance visual communication skills and comprehension. This learning experience not only builds practical sign language ability but also deepens understanding of Deaf culture, encouraging effective and respectful communication. With a focus on clarity, repetition, and gradual development, learners will acquire the skills needed to hold structured conversations, ask and respond to questions, and share detailed personal or professional information in BSL. The course aims to support learners in becoming confident and culturally aware communicators across different social and professional contexts. Course Modules Module 01: British Sign Language (BSL) Level 1 Online Course Module 02: Alphabet Fingerspelling and Names Practice Module 03: Greetings Module 04: Family, Question Forms and Family Story Module 05: Rooms in the House Vocabulary Module 06: Colours Module 07: Questions and Statements about the Home Module 08: Animals Module 09: Numbers and Money Module 10: Time and Months of the Year Module 11: Describing Ages Module 12: Weather Module 13: Transport Module 14: Directions Module 15: Hobbies Module 16: Work Module 17: Food and Drink Module 18: Dialogues (No Voice, No Subtitles) Module 19: Dialogues (With Voice and Subtitles) Module 20: Bonus: 5 Stories (With Voice and Subtitles) Module 21: Bonus: 5 Stories (No Voice Over) Module 22: Level 2 British Sign Language Module 23: Family Vocabulary Module 24: Describing People and Animals Module 25: Activities at School Module 26: Jobs and Activities at Work Module 27: Time Module 28: Activities in the Home Module 29: Leisure Activities Module 30: Opinions, Likes and Dislikes Module 31: Illnesses and Health Module 32: Eating and Drinking Module 33: Shopping and Spending Module 34: Travel and Holidays Module 35: Level 2 Dialogues (Without Voice and Subtitles) Module 36: Level 2 Dialogues (With Voice Over and Subtitles) Module 37: 5 Stories (No Voice Over and No Subtitles) Module 38: 5 Stories (With Voice Over and Subtitles) Module 39: Level 2 BSL Dialogues and Stories (See full curriculum) Who is this course for? Individuals seeking to communicate confidently with the Deaf community. Professionals aiming to enhance communication skills in inclusive workplaces. Beginners with an interest in sign language and Deaf culture. Teachers, healthcare workers, and public service providers. Parents, family members, or friends of Deaf individuals. Career Path BSL Interpreter (after further study and qualifications) Communication Support Worker Deaf Support Assistant Special Educational Needs (SEN) Teaching Assistant Community Support Worker Customer Service Advisor in accessible services Healthcare and Social Care Assistant Voluntary roles supporting Deaf organisations
English as a foreign language Prepare to pass the citizenship English language test (IELTS life skills) Classes from A1 to B1 level of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) . A1-A2 Elementary This course is designed for students of English who have little knowledge of the English language and want to achieve a better level. The course will focus on speaking practice, reading comprehension and pronunciation skills, writing and grammar. The syllabus: countries, numbers, possessive pronouns, days of the week, pronunciation skills (linking, stress, intonation). Family vocabulary and everyday objects; present tense of most common regular and irregular verbs. Asking questions and talking about activities, can and can’t, transports, some and any, how much and how many. Past simple, regular and irregular verbs, ordering food and drinks, dates and other past time phrases, buying tickets, asking politely, past simple, negative forms and questions, shops and shopping for clothes. Comparative adjectives, use of articles, going out and staying in, might and will, education and careers, filling a form, present perfect and sentence stress. Prepositions of movement, going places and describing things in a town, real life: for example, telephoning; consolidation activities. A2 - B1 Pre-intermediate This course will develop further your English language skills acquired with the Elementary course. This course will help you with the preparation for the citizenship test. Each lesson will focus on a grammar topic, vocabulary, reading and pronunciation practice, writing. The syllabus: revision of questions; present simple and frequency phrases. Talking about leisure activities and games, past simple, positive and negative, time phrases (at, on, in ago), describing feelings, talking about daily routines and jobs; should and shouldn’t, present continuous for future arrangements; inviting people; Comparative and superlative adjectives, questions with: how, what and what … like? Describing people; vowel sounds and silent letters, weak forms of prepositions. Quantifiers with countable and uncountable nouns, asking and giving directions. Present tense after if, adjectives for describing places, talking about how things were in the past, used to, past continuous, talking about health. Like and would like, conditional sentences with would, present simple passive and past simple passive, talking about products and personal items, writing a review, giving your opinion. Present perfect continuous and past perfect. Job interviews, getting a job and personal characteristics, meeting people; making suggestions. B1 - B2 Intermediate Asking and answering questions: everyday activities, people around you. The difference between have and have got. Speaking practice. E-mail writing (informal). Pronunciation and stress sounds activities. Past simple and continuous. Pronunciation of the -ed sound for past simple endings. Vocabulary: remembering and forgetting. Listening and speaking: first meetings and childhood memories (used to). Real life: showing interest. Pronunciation: sounding polite. Speaking practice. The sound /w/. Comparatives and superlatives. Describing towns and cities. Readings and discussions topics about travel and places to visit. Phrases for comparing. Design your own tour. Real life: booking a flight. Present perfect simple: strong and weak forms of ‘have’. Describing life events. Speaking: talking about people you admire. Writing task: curriculum vitae. Vocabulary: ‘take’. For, since and ago and the present perfect continuous. Pronunciation: linking. Comparing the past and the present. Future forms and future clauses with if, when etc. Talking about work. How to write a covering letter. Real life: a formal telephone call. Adjectives: -ed/-ing. Extreme adjectives. Write a review of a book/concert. Writing a consumer review. The passive forms. Speaking practice. Ripetizioni d’inglese Who these courses are for: Italian speakers who live in the UK who want to improve their skills to pass the UK citizenship exams (IELTS life skills). for Italian schoolchildren who need to prepare for exams (such as ‘esame di maturita’). for Italian students who want to improve their grades at school or simply need help with homework. for adults who want to improve their English for work or travel. IELTS – International English Language Testing System Life in the UK Test
Improve your riding and gain world-class qualifications as a snowboard instructor. With 4 - 11 week training options, you can ride for a month or a whole season.
Date: Thursday 22nd August Time: 5pm Join link: https://meet.google.com/fvo-bxws-itg?authuser=0&hs=122 Join us for an afternoon session where we'll discuss the various Student Societies we already have on offer to our students, and also give you the chance to suggest any societies you might want to start whilst at the school. We are open to all sorts of ideas and suggestions, especially those that have nothing to do with filmmaking! Come ready with some ideas and any questions you may have. Join us online through the link above.