About the College
The college was established in 2004 following the closure of the long-established and internationally respected Burren School of Homeopathy. It is directed by two experienced practitioners and educators in homeopathy, Clare Sheehan and Kate Chatfield who have both been involved in running successful homeopathy courses for many years. The course has been designed to meet the need for quality homeopathic education in Ireland and both directors are engaged at both at national and international level with setting and upholding standards in the education of homeopaths.
Course Philosophy
The course philosophy is firmly rooted in the classical homeopathy tradition as described by Samuel Hahnemann in his "Organon of Medicine". In addition we recognise the need to create an educational environment that encourages free thinking and critical awareness to a high level. We firmly believe that the practice of homeopathy is both a science and an art thereby making study of the subject an exciting and challenging use of both the left brain and right brain. The course curriculum encompasses both aspects equally, recognising that the practice of homeopathy requires sensitivity, empathy, and care. The substances used as medicines in homeopathy take the student on a journey through the entire worlds of the animal, mineral & plant kingdoms. Most importantly because we believe that it is only through truly knowing oneself that one can see another, the course requires all students to truly regard him/herself. The teaching of therapeutic skills and reflection are core components of this course so that students are fully equipped for the challenges of practising homeopathy.
"It may be a lifetime's work but I would invite you to ask yourself whether you have something better to do with your life than to improve your relationships with your family, beloved friends, patients and fellow man in general".
Brian Kaplan, A Homeopathic Conversation
Attendance
Part –Time attendance at the college allows students to continue their present career and/or cope with family commitments whilst developing the skills and expertise needed to become a professional homeopath.
Teaching methods
Tutors are committed to teaching homeopathy in a student-centred way and classes are small, the atmosphere informal. Formal lectures are few and discussion is welcomed. Students come to study homeopathy from many walks of life and bring a variety of life experiences with them, creating a unique atmosphere within each student group. We seek to teach and learn in an environment which supports students to find their own particular style of practising homeopathy as an expression of their own personalities.
Assessment
We recognise each of our students as individuals and this as an adult education course and so we have developed suitable methods of assessment which meet the professional requirements of the course whilst facilitating the development of safe, effective and competent practitioners of Homeopathy.
Examinations are not considered to be an effective method of assessment in homeopathy education and so all modules are assessed within their own framework.
Our assessments are carefully selected in a student-centred manner, to provide a variety of strategies for learning and to enable you to explore conventional as well as innovative ways of expressing yourself. Assessments include conventional essays, short answer tests, projects, portfolios, diaries, case history notes and self-assessment forms. At the end of each year we ask for feedback from each of the students to ensure that each assessment is an effective use of their time in studying homeopathy.
Our aim is to provide sufficient support to enable all students, from whatever background, to learn. Help is provided for assessments where needed. Assessment is continuous and graduation from the course entails the passing of both academic work and clinical practice.
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