The Foundation Programme (FP)

FP provides an opportunity for systematic study and meditation on the essential subjects of Kadampa Buddhism based on six modern Buddhist texts by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. The emphasis in the classes, which consist of teachings, meditation and discussion, is on gaining practical experience of Buddha’s teachings that you can apply to your daily life. Foundation Programme is for those who have had some experience of Buddha’s teachings and wish to deepen their experience, understanding and meditation practice. Classes are aimed at enabling students to develop their daily practice and support each other to become skilful meditation practitioners and bring about a positive transformation in our mind.

Joining the Foundation Programme involves enrolling to study one book (or section of a book), attending all the classes and sitting an exam at the end of the book or section. Each class consists of chanted prayers, a guided meditation, teaching and discussion. You are welcome to attend a class before enrolling and you can join at any time.

How to Understand the Mind

We are currently studying part 1 of the book How to Understand the Mind, by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche.

The first part is a practical guide to developing and maintaining a light, positive mind. We learn how to recognise and abandon states of mind that harm us and to replace them with peaceful and beneficial ones.

The second part describes different types of mind in detail, revealing the depth and profundity of the Buddhist understanding of the mind. In particular it reveals the process we go through in abandoning wrong and mistaken minds and eventually attaining qualified spiritual realizations.

What happens in a class?

Prior to class, students are expected to prepare by reading a few pages ahead and trying to memorise essential points.  The class begins with chanted prayers and guided meditation. The teacher then reads the assigned selection from the book while giving commentary to the text. The students then divide into pairs to discuss the material. The teacher and students conclude by deciding what to meditate on in the next class and how to practice during the coming week, followed by dedication prayers.

Interested in joining?

If you are interested in joining Foundation Programme we invite you to attend two free taster sessions. If you wish to attend two taster sessions please email our education programme coordinator.

If you wish to continue after the taster sessions you need to enrol on the programme. Students enrol to study one section of the book at a time and should try their best to attend every class. (Foundation Program is not a drop-in class and cannot be attended on a drop-in basis).

Fees for joining Foundation Programme

Students who join FP will require a Standard Membership (£35/month). This covers attending Foundation Programme and also access to all regular day and evening drop-in classes, branch classes, half-day / full-day / whole weekend courses, events and retreats.