What is the purpose of Teacher Training Program?
The Teacher Training Program is designed for people who wish to train as authentic Dharma Teachers in the New Kadampa Tradition. In addition to completing the study of fourteen texts of Sutra and Tantra, including the six texts studied on the Foundation Program, students are required to observe certain commitments with regard to behaviour and way of life, and to complete a number of meditation retreats each year.
Enrolment is required
This is not a walk-in program and enrolment is required. Students must have received Highest Yoga Tantra empowerments within the New Kadampa Tradition in order to study most of the books in this program. When students sign up for this program, they have a strong intention and commit to complete the study of all the 12 subjects of the program without stopping.
We are now studying The New Guide to Dakiniland by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso. We have copies available in our bookshop, or you can order a copy from Tharpa.ca .
Commitments of the Teacher Training Program
When you join the Teacher Training Program, you make the following commitments:
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To attend every teaching class, group discussion class, teaching skills class, memorization assessment class and review class.
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To memorize the condensed meaning and the Root Text of the books and to sit a written examination at the end of each book or section of a book.
- To attend at least one prayer service (Puja) organized by the Centre each week.
- To prepare well for each class so discussion partners’ efforts are respected.
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In addition, you will be expected to practically help the Centre in various ways – such as by occasionally putting up daily water offerings, cleaning the meditation room and other areas as needed; also helping in assisting at short courses where possible and assisting or teaching at General Program classes from time to time. This aspect is as important as the study part of the program, as it allows you to put the teachings into practice supported by other practitioners.
Prioritizing your study program in your personal schedule
Making your study program a high priority is essential for your studies and meditations to be successful. Please note: valid reasons for non-attendance should not include avoidable appointments or holidays.
How to Register
To learn how to register, please email our Education Coordinator, Kelsang Lamden by clicking below:
For an extensive explanation of the benefits of the Foundation & Teacher Training Programs, you can read the transcript of a talk by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche:
If we just dabble superficially in a spiritual path we will never gain a deep and stable experience, and our wisdom will never develop to its full potential. This is why these spiritual programs are so important.