Birthlight promotes well-being in the transition to parenthood through yoga based practices which have been standardised in training courses within one unified structure.
Our aim is to promote a high standard of teaching and to offer quality attention to all parents to be, babies and new parents who attend our Birthlight classes. We have put a great deal of thought into designing a course structure that reflects our common values and facilitates overlap between the various Birthlight classes.
Birthlight Diploma
The Birthlight Diploma is the full teaching qualification recognised by Birthlight (with the exception of the Baby Nurture Diploma Part 1). Part 1 Diploma holders who do not obtain their Part 2 Diplomas cannot be registered as Birthlight teachers. Completing part 2 is mandatory in order to be listed as a certified teacher.
Experienced, qualified teachers can go on to obtain a Tutor Training Diploma, which entitles them to train certified instructors and qualified teachers within the Birthlight course structure.
As all our courses are derived from yoga, those who take them are expected to have an interest in the practice and philosophy of yoga even if they are not experienced practitioners.
Part 1 Diploma Courses are tutor assessed, Part 2 Diploma courses are external tutor assessed and an expert panel assesses Tutor Training courses.
All Birthlight courses include training with volunteering guests and babies (where appropriate). Early instruction on the Baby Yoga Course and the Infant Aquatics Course is done with training dolls but we encourage parents to train with their own babies.
Our Range of Courses
We offer courses in:
Course Work and Case Studies
Diploma Part 1 holders have a period of six to 12 months (with a maximum of 24 months) to apply their knowledge to case studies of individuals and small groups, and to deepen their understanding by doing coursework. The six-month period before completing the Diploma Part 2 is an important time for putting into practice the contents of the Part 1 course and to develop personal teaching experience through observing and documenting group and individual situations.
Quality in teaching and attention to individual needs are highly valued in Birthlight. Diploma candidates are assisted through a watchdog system involving their peers and more experienced teachers in their area, and they have access to a help line and the Birthlight website discussion forums.
Diploma Part 2 Courses
Diploma Part 2 courses are usually held over two days in which the course work and case studies, which will have been assessed and carefully annotated, are discussed. Practical issues are clarified and examined in depth. Participants will also have an opportunity to compare notes and share their experiences. All Part 2 courses include a taught module incorporating further knowledge within the teaching area.
Each candidate is individually assessed through a practical test with an external examiner in a group situation. The creation of a positive learning atmosphere in which everyone can give and take constructive criticism, as well as praise, is an important component of the Diploma Course.