Questions and Answers
Do I need to complete years one and two before I can begin year three?
Yes. We have students from all different levels of experience and places on their journeys join us on our course from the first year. Our second and third years build directly on the specific skills and knowledge developed in the preceding years of the course, not just from the perspective of the contents explored, but also how herbalism is learned, emphasising embodied, elemental and experiential ways of reawakening the herbal wisdom within each of us. Our cohorts go on this journey together, forming a strong bond and community, which we honour by upholding the continuity of the group from year to year.
How much time do I need to commit outside the course sessions?
As much or as little as you want! There are no formal assignments, papers to write, assigned reading to do or exams to revise for. We go through all of the knowledge and skills live together between our in-person gatherings and Zoom sessions, so even if you didn't read, do or make anything outside of that time (although I'm sure you won't be able to resist!), you will still get a deep and solid foundation in the knowledge and skills of herbalism. Whatever you feel inspired to read, do or make beyond our sessions together is completely up to you and very welcome for discussion and questions within the cohort. It's your journey! Still wondering about the time commitment? Read more here.
Which energetic systems will we be working with?
As the original medicine, herbal medicine spans all cultures, continents and civilisations. We are fortunate so many of these ancient lines of observing the natural world - both plants and people - are intact today and that we are able to explore and consider so many valuable perspectives that contribute to our better understanding of how all of nature can thrive together. Each practising herbalist finds their own inspiration and creates their own alchemy, and you will, too. On this course, you will have the opportunity to explore the energetics, concepts and terminology of both Western herbal medicine and Ayurvedic perspectives, intimately woven together in a way that facilitates embodied, elemental and experiential learning. Curious to learn a bit more about how we work with Western and Ayurvedic energetic systems? Read more here.
Is catering provided?
Yes! Catering for our in-person gatherings is included in the course fees, and there will be plenty of herbal tea available to drink when we are together.
When and how do I apply?
Applications for the 2026 Year One cohorts will be open from June 2025.
Our application process is simple and straightforward, intended to give us a sense of who you are, what is inspiring you and what you are hoping to gain from your experience to help us determine if our school and the journey we offer is a great match for you. As you work through your responses, just be yourself. There are no prerequisites or official requirements for joining our course.
We aim to let you know the outcome of your application within one week.
If successful, you will be offered a place on one of our first-year cohorts. All places are offered and filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
Please note submission of an application is non-binding and does not guarantee you will be offered a place on our upcoming cohorts.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes! You can split the cost into two equal instalments of £698.50 or you can pay in four equal instalments of £349.25. Instalments for all payment plans are charged automatically in accordance with the timing of the plan. For the two instalments plan, the second payment is charged on the same date one month after the initial payment. For the four instalments plan, successive payments are charged on the same date of the initial payment for the following three months. The final payment for deposit plans, when offered, is charged automatically on the specified date. If you have any questions about timing and payment plans, please contact us.
What if I can’t make all of the dates?
You are strongly encouraged to join in all of our sessions, as there is a tangible benefit to attending live and in a cohesive group. All of our live online sessions will be recorded for future reference or if missing any sessions are unavoidable due to life circumstances or schedule clashes. Plan to be fully present to your journey, but if there are a few small (or regular) diary clashes that are unavoidable, don’t let that hold you back from joining. You are still very much welcome! If you're still wondering about your scheduling and making the live Zooms, read more here.
Is there an opportunity to progress beyond the third year?
Awaken Herbal Wisdom has been created as a three year journey. You can explore what the first and second years of the journey look like here and here. After you complete the course, you are welcome to continue to be part of our community and attend events for alumni and current students.
Is this a certification/qualification course?
This course and its preceding years have intentionally not been designed as a formal qualification because we believe the wiser we become in ourselves, our homes and our communities, the more we are able to lift each other up to create a stronger society organically. There are many brilliant clinical training courses available across the globe; however, not everyone wants to complete 500 clinic hours, conduct a research project and sit exams. Whilst not everyone wants to become a clinical herbalist, many do want to develop a high level of skill and knowledge for personal reasons - and that's the journey of empowerment we love to provide.
For any further questions, do feel free to contact us and ask.
