Carole Stocker, a student attending the Certificate in Sustainable Horticulture at Schumacher College, chose to look at edible landscapes in urban areas. Her studies have now secured a new role with BCTV. Read more…
We are looking for a pioneering, creative and dedicated individual who can design and deliver our public programme of internationally acclaimed short courses.
January Newsletter | Warm greetings for 2012 to all our newsletter readers. In this newsletter: News from our Masters courses; New short courses; Articles by Jean Boulton, Emily Ryan, Julie Richardson, Peter Reason, Satish Kumar, Joanna Brown, Tim Malnick and Stephan Harding; plus details of our Open Evenings and many other events.
Make a note in your diary! We are pleased to announce the dates and teachers who will take part in our Open Evenings for the early part of 2012.
Details of next years Earth Talks are now here. The hugely popular Earth Talks continue into 2012 with three events that incorporate learning and wisdom from the land and the sea!
November Newsletter How should we respond to the turmoil around us as markets crash, energy prices increase and climate change becomes an ever present reality? Some respond with denial, some shout ‘The End of The World’ and others look for solutions that identify a future of possibility and hope. Read more here…
Richard Douthwaite co-founder of Feasta, visiting teacher and friend of the College died yesterday on November 14th 2011 after a long illness.
Schumacher College is proud to announce the first screening of the forthcoming film ‘Animate Earth’, a documentary film written and presented by the College’s resident ecologist Dr Stephan Harding.
For this month’s newsletter, we focus in on our postgraduate programmes which are now open for applications. Alongside our MSc Holistic Science and our MA Economics for Transition which started this academic year, we are excited to announce a pioneering programme – MSc Sustainable Horticulture and Food Production – which is currently in development for 2012.
January 29 to February 13, 2012 Travel with Links to India to visit and build bridges with some of the pioneering projects and people making sustainable living a reality
Clearly it’s time for new thinking on the future of economics, but what solutions are available to us? What forms of enterprise can replace the unsustainable businesses of today and what models of organisation could lead to healthier and more resilient enterprises that can weather economic storms whilst treading more lightly on the planet?
Green Entrepreneur Competition, 2011. To encourage and support budding green entrepreneurs from around the world the College is offering a place on the course at half price (£375 for one week, or £600 for two weeks). The prize will go to the Green Entrepreneur/s who impresses them most with their new or existing green business idea.
How can we find the energy and enthusiasm for sustainable living if we don’t take care of our own health and wellbeing? To see you into the autumn with renewed vitality, we start the academic year with some great opportunities for rest, reconnection, reading and rethinking.
We are delighted to announce a new study programme from Schumacher College that offers you the chance to become fully immersed in an ecological way of looking at the world which will transform your life and work. Cultivating an Ecoliterate Worldview: Person, Place and Practice. Can you help us promote this exciting new opportunity?
For many of us, sustainability is a dynamic and active process of changing the environmental, social and economic components of existence that we simply cannot sustain. However, building changes in our communities and in the wider world can be a complicated and difficult task without the knowledge and skills to help drive them.
Governments across the globe have gone to enormous lengths to prop up failing financial institutions on the understanding that these interventions will bring about stability and end the threat of further financial collapse. But is the economic crisis really over? Is this ‘business as usual’ mentality destined to produce more of the same instability?
David Orr’s approach to sustainability is an essential, rich dialogue on how we integrate responses to crisis and environmental challenge – where there is a role for every voice from industry and science to art and music. The Oberlin Project has already been heralded as having the potential to be an international model for change and development.
Help us imagine a Masters in Horticulture that explores the role of natural biological and ecological processes in productivity, meets the treble challenges of peaking natural resources, environmental change and rising populations, and asks the question of what a resilient and sustainable local food system might look like.
As the resources we’ve depended on our whole lives are in decline (cheap oil, stable climate, and a growing economy), and as looming government cuts have yet to fully impact, there has never been a more obvious time for us to take stock of our lives and reassess our lifestyles in terms of our emotional and spiritual connection with ‘stuff’.
Two free events are open to the public, as part of Schumacher College’s Earth Talks programme. Booking essential.
We are pleased to announce that Schumacher College will be expanding its campus at the Old Postern site to deliver its new programmes. The College’s expanded campus will include refurbishing nearby buildings and the construction of a cycle track from Dartington Hall.
Taking our inspiration from nature to address this question points us towards all that can be learned from the amazing innovations and creative coping strategies that organisms have developed to minimise their use of resources – the world of biomimicry.
There is an urgent and unprecedented task in enabling learning around the many complex issues involved in sustainability.
We are delighted that the award winning Bruce Lipton will be coming to Schumacher College in September to teach a course named after his bestselling book Biology of Belief.
If you were at Schumacher College 20 years ago today you would have been involved with the first ever course we ran, taught by James Lovelock: The Health of Gaia. We have run over 250 transformational courses since then. Thanks to all of you who have made the last twenty years so wonderful.
Schumacher College’s successful course programme is developing fast. We are looking for an experienced marketer with a commitment to communicating our work to new and established audiences.
We acknowledge that the field of Development is ever-shifting and increasingly complex. When the rest of the world wants to stop and take stock, Development must keep moving forward in new and creative directions.
Satish will be presenting Thought for the Day on Radio4, between 7.45am and 7.50am on 28th December 2010. The theme of Satish’s presentation will be peace, and the convergence of Buddhist wisdom and indigenous intelligence.
These are exciting times for us here at Schumacher College, as we prepare the ground for two new strands of practically-based courses to complement our existing curriculum in the area of sustainable land use and ecological design, build and refurbishment. We need your input in designing the right courses at this time.
As you may already be aware, 2011 marks the 20th anniversary of Schumacher College. It is also the centenary of the birth of E.F. Schumacher whose work was inspirational in the founding of the College. This 20th Anniversary marks an important milestone in the College’s history. Thank you if you have been part of creating these first amazing 20 years.
We are now working with like-minded people and organisations to develop a new practically based strand to our curriculum. This will include new short courses, and an undergraduate and postgraduate programme on ecological design, build and refurbishment for the HOME, and human-scale sustainable LAND use. We are currently seeking input from you to help us design this new area of work.
Recent economic events have told us that our present economic system is vulnerable. Can organisations be successful and genuinely sustainable – in the broadest sense? Is business capable of taking a different path?
We are delighted to announce that our postgraduate programme are now open for application for entrance September 2011. This includes the first of its kind MSc in Holistic Science, run in association with the University of Plymouth and our new programme Masters in Economics for Transition, Achieving low carbon, high well-being, resilient economies.
Schumacher College’s successful course programme is developing fast. We are looking for an experienced marketer with a commitment to communicating our work to new and established audiences.
Running through each of the programmes we offer, the tasks we perform and the values we observe, is the same thread of belief that we, as individual people or small groups and communities, have the capacity for great change.
Local architects firm Roderick James Architects have been chosen to undertake the design work for the new Schumacher College campus on the Dartington estate. The project will include the refurbishment of building previously used by the Dartington College of Arts as well as new features and structures to improve the learning space, energy conservation and aesthetics of the campus.
Are there alternatives to the current model of consumerism? If you believe a radical re-think of economic growth and consumption is needed, then you need to look at what alternative narratives might support new social structures and enterprises for this generation and the next.
We are looking for leaders and open-minded thinkers who are looking for a place to explore opportunities, co-create solutions and learn from the experience of others.
There has been concern regarding the future of the Horse Chestnut tree that stands outside Schumacher College. The tree has shed significant boughs in recent weeks, which led to an assessment of the health of the tree and the possible risk to those around the tree, by internal and external experts.
In 2011 Schumacher College will be moving to Higher Close with dramatic views of the River Dart and parkland. The College’s grounds will be gradually redesigned to demonstrate urban food production and ‘edible landscaping’.
Never have I got involved in a challenge before which is so exciting, and so testing, but together with the talented and motivated team a the Foundation I am absolutely loving it.
The Dartington Hall Trust will be commissioning an architect to design an inspirational new reception and teaching facility at the new campus site for Schumacher College built to high environmental standards.
Of the seventeen students who sat their Level 2 National Certificate for the Dartington Certificate in Sustainable Horticulture, twelve students received distinctions, two students were awarded merits and two students received a pass, giving a 100 per cent pass rate. Applications are being accepted for level 3 of The Dartington Certificate in Sustainable Horticulture
Most of us accept that we need to re-think the way we live on this planet – but how do we go about it? And, will it make a difference anyway? _ …our lives have great impact and meaning and the choices we make now will affect the lives of each generation to come._
We invite you to help co-design this programme by telling us what you imagine it to be like. What inspiration, knowledge and skills are needed to support a new generation of leaders and activists in creating an economy fit for the future?
Each year in July the literary festival, Ways With Words, comes to Dartington. If you would like to stay at Schumacher College during the festival please contact us.
Schumacher College is delighted to be partnering with PPL training in delivering courses specifically developed for people wanting to learn essential practical skills in renewable energy systems.
For nearly 20 years, Schumacher College has been pioneering radical new thinking in economics attracting participants and inspirational teachers from around the globe. Now we are working with like-minded people and organisations to develop a Masters program in economics to inspire, skill and support a new generation of leaders and activists in creating an economy fit for the challenges of the 21st century. The programme should open for application later this year to start in 2011.
At Schumacher the growing, gathering, preparation and eating of food are all essential parts of the Schumacher experience, integral to all our courses. Many people who want to expand their horizons are doing so in addition to busy lives and jobs. With that in mind…
Next year, 2011, is the 20th anniversary of the opening of Schumacher College. It is also the centenary of the birth of E.F. Schumacher, the author of Small is Beautiful, whose work was an inspiration in the founding of the College. We are ever mindful of the major economic and environmental issues facing our world and remain encouraged by our friends and supporters that now, more than ever, our College can play a leadership role in addressing these issues.
This Summer we welcome a number of teachers here to help ensure we view these crises’ together and share the exploration for solutions. We look forward to both deeply satisfying and practical experiences for participants.
Schumacher College- the International Centre for Sustainability and Dartington Hall Trust are proud to announce a collaboration with Salzburg Global Seminar based in Austria, the Foundation for Democracy and Sustainable Development and Goodenough College in London to present an international leadership seminar in the centre of London in April.
We are seeking to make a new appointment to enable us to address more effectively the urgent imperatives of climate change, economic crisis and social upheaval. As Open Learning Project Manager you will the project champion and leader in the ongoing development of a strategy and implementation plan for Open Learning for Schumacher College.
The Dartington Hall Trust will be officially unveiling its new hydro-electric turbine at Lower Tweed Mill at the Cider Press Centre at 9:30am on Wednesday, 10th March 2010.
Next week Schumacher College, UK in conjunction with Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (KFBG), Hong Kong will be delivering a transformative course, Seeing With New Eyes, led by Satish Kumar. Part of the Schumacher in China Programme
Challenging the status quo whilst retaining academic credibility is at the heart of what we do at Schumacher College. We are currently recruiting for our year-long Masters in Holistic Science degree programme for 2010/11, whilst we look forward to welcoming Fritjof Capra, Sean Kelly and Rupert Sheldrake to join our own Stephan Harding to teach our science-themed short courses this Summer.
Teachers on the Schumacher College Short Course Earth Jurisprudence and Community Resilience: Learning from Africa speak with Rosie Much. The programme will be tranmitted several times to cross global time zones on Glastonbury Radio during February.
Growth ‘drowns-out’ efficiency gains. Environmental ‘tolerance thresholds’ being pushed too far making a growing economy and a safe climate incompatible according to new modelling from nef (the new economics foundation) and Schumacher College.
People will be discussing the Copenhagen climate conference for years to come. Opinions will be mixed as to whether it was a step forward or a failure. Only history will tell whether it was a turning point or a tipping point…. What Copenhagen made blindingly clear is how the world has changed. Malini Mehra, founder and chief executive of Centre for Social Markets.
We need, in this new century, a radically different yardstick of progress and development, to measure what matters most: well-being and happiness. We need to adopt well-being and collective happiness as the orienting principles of our governance… Dasho Karma Ura
We leave you this year with a taste of our exciting course areas for the year to come including: organisational change, leadership and facilitation; refocusing after Copenhagen; and the meeting of Gaia and consciousness.
At this time we are living during with a “crisis of perception.” People tend to see the world’s problems as largely unrelated and fragmented, with limited understanding of their common ecological basis. At Schumacher College, we are continuously inviting visionary and inspired teachers who eloquently challenge these misperceptions. Our new year courses will explore this crisis through three approaches: science and spirit, economics and happiness, and the implications Copenhagen summit. The time to challenge the crisis of perception is here. Join us at Schumacher College.
How do we find a way through to a more enlightened understanding of our role on this planet, which embraces the wonderful intellectual achievements of our age whilst putting them in a context of responsibility, sustainability and wisdom?
The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15) taking place in Denmark in December of this year is viewed by many as a landmark in human history, whatever the outcomes. Future historians will point to it as the moment when global political leaders either had the courage to take drastic action to protect future generations’ wellbeing or failed to move beyond their own national self-interests and continued business as usual – with potentially catastrophic results.
As we approach the winter solstice, the longest night and the season for natural hibernation Schumacher College invites you to a Winter Warmer Week. Two courses will run during the week to inspire and nourish you: Baking for a New Food Culture and Darkness and Transformation.
Schumacher College was founded upon the convictions that the dominant world view has serious limitations, and that a new vision is needed for human society and our relationship to the Earth. Since it is our scientific understanding that largely informs this world view, Schumacher College has been dedicated to the exploration of a vision that is informed by a new “holistic science,” through a programme of science-themed residential courses and the revolutionary one-year Masters in Holistic Science degree programme.
A systemic disconnect: Money and happiness | The current economic crisis provides the opportunity to look at personal and group values in the context of our role in the world and our relationship with the planet. What exactly is the connection between money and happiness at a psychological and a systemic level?
Applications for the new Dartington Certificate in Sustainable have exceeded expectations. The high demand for this new course reflects the urgent need for new ways of running in the UK and across the world.
We are very sorry to announce that our great friend Frank Cook died on Wednesday 19th August.
Dartington and The School for Social Entrepreneurs (SSE) are delighted to announce the opening of the latest branch of the SSE here in Devon. The SSE in Devon will be based at Schumacher College, Dartington.
On Sunday 20th September, we will be remembering our dear friend and inspired teacher, Professor Brian Goodwin at a Memorial Celebration of his life, here at Dartington, Devon
“There is truth in each of us, but to see some of it we should be humble enough to accept that it is too big that we could get to see it all.”
Brian Goodwin, 25th March 1931 – 15th July 2009.
Last week for Autumn courses at early booking rate. So do visit our course pages for more information about our exciting programme which includes hands-on on topics like ethnobotany to creative approaches to educating on sustainability
On 15 July our dear friend and colleague Professor Brian Goodwin died peacefully in hospital with his wife Christel at his side.
Coverage of the new Certificate in Sustainable Horticulture being offered by Dartington and Dutchy College on the BBC. In an oil scarce world the art of growing your own food will be an invaluable skill…
UK Guardian: Green fear over deal for Amazon squatters
Brazil’s president Lula has approved a controversial law which grants land rights to squatters occupying land in the Amazon — campaigners fear it will result in a further increase in deforestation of the Amazon region…
As part of its rapid growth in the UK, and with recently secured funding, a new Devon SSE is being set up led by Dartington working with a coalition of county wide organisations. This new post of Learning Manager is integral to the success of Devon SSE in its first phase of development.
Autumn booking open – early booking discounts available on many courses
There are early booking discounts for a limited number of applicants, and normal pricing will resume after 24 July. Take advantage of early booking – go straight to on-line booking for all courses
Through the Dartington Diploma in Sustainable Horticulture, Dartington is to revive its proud history of horticultural education, with a new course designed to equip growers with the skills necessary for 21st century food production. The course combines theoretical with practical education as students gain real-life experience working alongside three gardening projects on the Dartington estate; the main gardens, School Farm and the forest garden around Schumacher College.
Telegraph newspaper coverage
We humans like to think we’re pretty good at design and technology – but we often forget that Mother Nature had a head start of 3.6 million years. Now, the way that geckoes climb walls, or hummingbirds hover, is at the centre of a burgeoning industry: biomimicry, the science of “reverse-engineering” clever ideas from the natural world.
On June 1, the theologian Thomas Berry passed away peacefully at the age of 94. The following day, participants on our Small is Beautiful Revisited course remembered him at the morning meeting, with a reading from one of his books, The Great Work.
Where biomimicry seeks design solutions from the natural world, Community Ecological Governance looks to Nature to derive human governance systems, built upon a foundation of ecoliteracy.
The Dartington Schumacher College Think Tank took take place on 15th and 16th May to discuss a forward strategy for Dartington Schumacher College.
Maintaining biocultural diversity is an act of supreme collective intelligence according to Gary Martin, Director of the Global Diversity Foundation. Local community knowledge may hold the keys to addressing global challenges like climate change, ecosystem health and food security.
Courses for the autumn include Biotecture in Practice: Building an Earthship; Exploring Ethnobotany: Plants as healers; and Growth and Consequence: Rethinking our economic future. We have released the initial course details so you can put the dates in your diary. Why not register your interest in one or more courses and you will be the first to know when the courses open for booking, with further details and any early-bird discounts.
May marks my first six months at Dartington. I joined the Trust following five years as CEO of the Carnegie UK Trust, where amongst other initiatives we launched the influential Carnegie Commission for Rural Communities and the Carnegie Commission on the future of Civil Society… The opportunity to move to Dartington to lead the Trust’s work on sustainability and to run the internationally respected Schumacher College was a challenge I’ve relished…
Salad-loving staff and tenants will be well aware of fresh salad sprouting in the entrances of many buildings around the estate. These are just some of the fruits of the recent hard work at School Farm where pioneer horticulturalist, Nick Gooderham, has been breathing new life into the previously unoccupied premises.
Living Classroom Educator (part time)
We are seeking to make this new appointment to enable us to address more effectively the urgent imperatives of climate change, economic crisis and social upheaval.
Activities at Schumacher College continue as normal. We are monitoring the situation. We suggest you visit the WHO site for regular and updated information http://www.who.int/en/
Welcome to the Dartington Schumacher College newsletter. We have ideas on G20 and the relevance of Schumacher today, eletric vans as a way forward, information about employment opportunities at Dartington, and extract from Frijof Capra’s new book and further details on our pioneering course – Valuing Diversity.
In his famous book, Small is Beautiful: Economics as if people mattered, E.F. Schumacher brilliantly articulated the need to align economics with natural resources.
Spring has now arrived in the Northern Hemisphere and the day are lengthening and getting warmer. During May we are delighted to be welcoming back Fritjof Capra and Thomas Moore who are both returning to Schumacher after a few years.
The opening weeks of 2009 have been optimistic at Schumacher College as participants joined us for two challenging yet highly rewarding courses Exploring Science, Matter and Consciousness and the timely Embedding Holistic Economics: For a global community. The forthcoming courses for spring/summer 2009 are equally relevant and inspiring.
On 12 March, Dartington Hall, in association with Business Network (SW), is hosting a Sustainability Networking Dinner for regional businesses.
A few hours ago James Lovelock, world famous scientist and founder of Gaia theory was speaking on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme. He is just one of an impressive and at times controversial group of visiting teachers who teach on the MSc in Holistic Science at Schumacher College.
Welcome to a special seasonal issue of the Schumacher College newsletter. As we celebrrate the season and look forward to the New Year we have news of staff changes, exciting courses and a wonderful range of events, where we invite you to meet our tutors, visit the college and discuss the hot topics of the day.
Schumacher College is inviting applications for the new Certificate in Sustainable Health which starts in February 2009.
The closing date for applications to the Schumacher Certificate in Education for Sustainability is 30th November 2008.
In the last year, The Dartington Hall Trust which includes Schumacher College, has made fantastic progress in its aim to become a carbon and waste neutral ‘living classrom’.
