We run two courses, one in Tai Chi Chuan, the martial approach to training internal development, the other Qigong, the health and personal development approach. Whilst there is some overlap between the courses, they each have specific modules focused on their own unique approach.
They are designed as a hands on and practical exploration of teaching and learning internal arts with high standards and expectations throughout. The interview process covers character and moral standards alongside physical fitness and skill in Internal Arts. Alongside physical knowledge, the courses cover teaching pedagogy, meditation and business management. Students are put forward for membership of the Tai Chi Union for Great Britain when they meet the required standards.
This is not only a route to becoming an instructor, it is also designed as a personal development journey. In order to stand in front of a group and facilitate their transformation through Tai Chi, you must be ready to transform yourself and keep doing so on a day-by-day basis. Internal Arts require focus and dedication to go to the hard places; the aching muscles, the bad posture, the emotional and mental blocks are all transformed through a combination of patience, perseverance and practice. This course will require all of those things.
Currently, there are 6 students following the course at various levels; we all work as a team to help each other and the school progress. Everyone has different interests, desires and approaches and we see them as enriching the whole: Will loves his juggling and circus skills, while Ingrid is planning Chi Gung for vocal training; what we all share is a passion for this transformational art and philosophy which is Tai Chi.
Health Warning: Do you want a quick introductory course which teaches you basics of the movements, some common mistakes and adjustments and qualifies you in a weekend or couple of weeks? If so, this course is not for you.
Minimum Entry Requirements:
In order to apply for the course and be accepted as a Teaching Assistant, you will need to meet these criteria:
Attendance: A Senior Student will have at least 3 years experience of Tai Chi (including a minimum of 1 year with us); they will be attending at least 3 classes a week and regularly attending Sunday morning training, workshops and seminars.
Tai Chi Skill: Students must have completed their 5 Section Hand Form in public which demonstrates:
- Consistent hip track and waist turning and accurate footwork throughout.
- Consistent martial focus and awareness.
- Understanding of applications is obvious in the quality of individual moves
Interview: Students will be interviewed to assess their commitment, motives and attitude.
