Trainees will learn through the lens of ‘Practical Skills Therapeutic Education’, the method of the Ruskin Mill Trust. Learning will be primarily experiential through vocationally relevant practical activities, supported by a series of taught sessions and seminars.
Trainees will also have the opportunity to engage in artistic activities, to support learning and personal development. Self-reflection is a key feature throughout, to support personal enquiry and growth.
Independent study and field trips are also included within the programme, to promote self-leadership and provide an opportunity to see biodynamic agriculture, farming and horticulture in varied environments within the context of therapeutic education.
Through the programme, Trainees will:
- Work alongside and receive direct vocational guidance from trained and experienced biodynamic practitioners and tutors
- Work alongside and engage with Ruskin Mill Trust students, supporting them in their development
- Participate in seminars on biodynamic practice and the Trust’s unique therapeutic education method.
- Have the opportunity to visit different organic and biodynamic farms and gardens, in order to deepen understanding of agriculture and therapeutic pedagogy in other geographical settings and environments (for example, rural farms and a city roof top garden).
- Engage in relevant artistic and craft activities, to enhance learning.
- Be expected to study independently and evidence learning through a final project and portfolio on animal husbandry or growing
The programme will be delivered over two years through a series of week and weekend teaching blocks per year consisting of formal lectures, practical workshops, seminar discussions and tutorials.