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Apply to Join the Special Teacher Training Programme
It is not possible to study on the STTP at the same time as being on another FP or TTP programme. It is only possible to be on one of these study programmes at a time.
You can apply to join the programme whenever a new book or section of a book begins.
The programme is about to complete The New Eight Steps to Happiness Part 2 in April 2026, information about the next opportunity to join will be available soon.
Use the form linked below to apply.
If you wish to attend all 3 of the classes at Manjushri KMC or to train as a teacher you are required to join with commitments, otherwise you can choose whether to join with or without commitments. If studying without commitments you still undertake to keep up with the classes as they are taught.
There is now a possibility for those who are not enrolled on the in-person STTP or STTP by correspondence, with Venerable Geshe-la’s blessing - anyone who wishes to attend the STTP teaching classes (2 Classes) in-person in the Temple are now welcome to do so on a drop-in basis - just like you would attend GP.
To apply to join with commitments please complete all fields in form below.
To apply to join without commitments complete only the required fields.
Schedule of STTP Classes 2026
Class times:
Sunday 7 - 9pm - teaching class
Monday 7 - 8.45am - discussion/teaching skills class, not available online
Tuesday 7 - 8.45am - teaching class
Section 23 - Present Section: The New Eight Steps to Happiness Part Two (Part 2 p135 – 259 Wishing love – Dedication)
STTP Classes 2026:
Feb 8, 9, 10
Feb 15, 16, 17
Mar 8, 9, 10
Mar 15, 16, 17
Mar 22, 23, 24
Mar 29 - last teaching class
Mar 30, 31 - revision classes (in person only)
.
Exam:
Exam for Part Two TNESTH
-Resident Teachers exam between Monday 20 April and Friday 1 May.
-Online exam available between Saturday 18 April 8am (UK time) and Friday 24 April 10pm (UK time).
-Live Class exam April 12 at 6pm.
.
Retreats:Â There will also be retreats taking place during the year:
Refuge Retreat July 3 - 10
.
Further information
For more information please contact the STTP Coordinator at specialttp@kadampa.org
For more information please contact the STTP Coordinator at specialttp@kadampa.org
The STTP commitments
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To complete every study and meditation class
-
To memorize the condensed meaning of each text
-
To prepare for and take examinations at the end of each section of a book
Please note: Those attending the live classes at Manjushri KMC undertake to attend all 3 classes at the centre if studying with commitments.
In the previous STTP programme there were 6 books to be studied: How to Understand the Mind, Modern Buddhism, The New Heart of Wisdom, Tantric Grounds & Paths, Guide to the Bodhisattva's Way of Life (and it's commentary Meaningful to Behold) and Ocean of Nectar.
In addition a further 6 books have been added to the programme, the first of which began in September 2019:Â The New Guide to Dakini Land, The Oral Instructions of Mahamudra, The Mirror of Dharma, Essence of Vajrayana, The New Eight Steps to Happiness and Joyful Path of Good Fortune.
When signing up to the programme you are commiting to study the 6 books in the present STTP programme.
Studying by correspondence
Correspondence students receive audio downloads for all the study and meditation classes.
You can join the correspondence programme with or without commitments.
The cost of the correspondence programme is £70 per section of each book. There are in total 14 examined sections in the present 6 book programme.
Please note:Â Whether studying with or without commitments all correspondence students should be keeping up with the live classes as they are taught.
Apply to join the correspondence programme
Enrolment takes place at the beginning of a new book or a new section of a book, but you can submit the application form at any time.
Please note: There is a break in the STTP classes at present, classes will resume after the Fall Festival in October.
Use the form linked below to apply.
To apply to join with commitments please complete all fields in form.
To apply to join without commitments complete only the required fields.
Attending the live STTP classes
To attend the live classes at Manjushri KMC you can choose to take the STTP commitments and undertake to attend every class at the centre. There is now an option to attend only the 2 teaching classes each week on a drop-in basis like GP if not enrolled already in STTP.
Resident and non-resident attendance & fees
You can attend the live classes either by becoming a resident at Manjushri KMC or by living outside the centre and travelling in for classes.
For residents the fees are included in the standard monthly education fee. Non-resident attendees can also pay the monthly education fee.
Apply to attend the live classes with commitments
Please contact the the STTP Coordinator at specialttp@kadampa.org to begin the application process.
Founder ~ Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche
World-renowned meditation master
The Founder of Modern Kadampa Buddhism is Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche, a world-renowned meditation master who holds the very essence of Buddha’s teachings in his heart.
Venerable Geshe-la transmits this profound wisdom and compassion to the people of the modern world in very practical ways through the extremely accessible methods of modern Kadampa Buddhism, which he introduced.
A life of dedication
Since 1977, when he accepted an invitation to become Resident Teacher at Manjushri Centre in the UK, he has given thousands of teachings, composed twenty-three widely acclaimed books on Buddhism and meditation, established over 1,300 meditation centers, trained hundreds of qualified Teachers and developed practical study and meditation programs to suit the needs of the modern world.
In short, he has dedicated his entire life to laying the foundation for modern Kadampa Buddhism to flourish throughout the world in this and future generations.
All the auspicious developments illustrated on this website have arisen from the compassionate intention and extraordinary vision of this remarkable being.
International Teacher
Venerable Geshe-la is a truly international Teacher who presents Buddha’s teachings in ways that anyone, regardless of nationality, culture, gender or age can easily understand their meaning and apply them to their modern daily life.
Today, many thousands of people around the world are experiencing the immense, practical benefits of applying his life-transforming teachings.
Scientific methods to accomplish inner peace
Venerable Geshe-la’s message is as simple as it is profound - all the problems in this world originate in the mind, and the solutions to these problems and the causes of lasting peace and happiness are also to be found in the mind.
Only by developing inner peace in our minds through meditation can we solve our own problems and help others to do the same, and in this way create world peace.
Thanks to the extraordinary kindness of Venerable Geshe-la, the internal scientific methods to accomplish this inner peace are now available to everyone in the modern world.
This humble monk has touched the hearts of countless people around the world and inspired them to set out on a blissful journey to lasting happiness and inner peace.
Special Teacher Training Programme
Please note that from April there will be a break in the Special Teacher Training Programme,
classes will resume again after the Fall Festival in October.
The Special Teacher Training Programme (STTP) at Manjushri KMC was designed by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche to train qualified Teachers of Modern Kadampa Buddhism. It is taught by Gen-la Kelsang Dekyong.
The core of the programme is the study and meditation classes based on the books of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche.
The purpose of the study component is to enable students to gain an understanding of the deep meanings of Buddha’s teachings and learn how to apply them to modern daily life. The purpose of the meditation component is to enable the students to gain practical experience of the meaning of the teachings. Qualified Teachers need both.
Participation
There are two ways to participate in the programme:
- Attending the live classes
- Studying by correspondence
Current programme
The programme is completing the study of The New Eight Steps to Happiness Part 2 in April 2026.
Further information
For more information please contact the STTP Coordinator at specialttp@kadampa.org
Foundation Programme
NEW TERM, NEW BOOK STARTING APRIL 2026
How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
With NEW General Spiritual Director Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
The Foundation Programme (FP) at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre provides an opportunity for residential and non-residential students to engage in systematic study and meditation on the essential subjects of Kadampa Buddhism based on six books by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. The emphasis in the classes, which consist of teachings, meditation, and discussion, is on gaining practical experience of Buddha’s teachings that can be applied in daily life. If you have been coming to classes regularly and have been getting a lot out of weekly drop-in classes but feel you want to go a bit deeper with your study and practice - then systematic study of the essential Buddhist texts may be a perfect next step for you.
The Programme Teacher
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa is the New General Spiritual Director of New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union and the Resident Teacher of Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre. Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la’s guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world. Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.Â
The Programme Teacher
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa is the New General Spiritual Director of New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union and the Resident Teacher of Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre. Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la’s guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world. Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.Â
About the Study Book
This remarkable book offers us deep insight into our own mind, and shows how an understanding of its nature and functions can be used practically in everyday experience to improve our lives.
- Part One: A practical guide to developing and maintaining a light, positive mind.
- Part Two: Describes different types of mind in detail and how to use these in meditation and daily life.
- Part Three: Â Presents a series of meditations that form the stages of the Buddhist meditative path to enlightenment also known as Lamrim in Tibetan.
Weekly ClassesÂ
Mondays, 7.00 - 9.00 pm.
One month trial available
The study of How to Understand the Mind will commence with an Introductory talk on Monday 20 April 2026, 7.00 - 9.00 pm. The Introductory class will then be followed by 3 taster classes that everyone is welcome to trial before deciding whether to join the programme.
Class DatesÂ
Apr 20, 27, May 4, 11, Jun 8, 15, 22, 29 (Melodious Drum Puja)
Further information & enrolment
For more information and to enrol please contact the Education Programme Coordinator on: education@manjushri.org
The Foundation Programme (FP) at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre provides an opportunity for residential and non-residential students to engage in systematic study and meditation on the essential subjects of Kadampa Buddhism based on six books by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. The emphasis in the classes, which consist of teachings, meditation, and discussion, is on gaining practical experience of Buddha’s teachings that can be applied in daily life. If you have been coming to classes regularly and have been getting a lot out of weekly drop-in classes but feel you want to go a bit deeper with your study and practice - then systematic study of the essential Buddhist texts may be a perfect next step for you.
The Programme Teacher
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa is the New General Spiritual Director of New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union and the Resident Teacher of Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre. Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la’s guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world. Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.Â
About the Study Book
This remarkable book offers us deep insight into our own mind, and shows how an understanding of its nature and functions can be used practically in everyday experience to improve our lives.
- Part One: A practical guide to developing and maintaining a light, positive mind.
- Part Two: Describes different types of mind in detail and how to use these in meditation and daily life.
- Part Three: Â Presents a series of meditations that form the stages of the Buddhist meditative path to enlightenment also known as Lamrim in Tibetan.
Weekly ClassesÂ
Mondays, 7.00 - 9.00 pm.
One month trial available
The study of How to Understand the Mind will commence with an Introductory talk on Monday 20 April 2026, 7.00 - 9.00 pm. The Introductory class will then be followed by 3 taster classes that everyone is welcome to trial before deciding whether to join the programme.
Class DatesÂ
Apr 20, 27, May 4, 11, Jun 8, 15, 22, 29 (Melodious Drum Puja)
Further information & enrolment
For more information and to enrol please contact the Education Programme Coordinator on: education@manjushri.org
Foundation Programme
NEW TERM, NEW BOOK STARTING APRIL 2026
How to Understand the Mind by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso
With NEW General Spiritual Director Gen-la Kelsang Jampa
The Foundation Programme (FP) at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre provides an opportunity for residential and non-residential students to engage in systematic study and meditation on the essential subjects of Kadampa Buddhism based on six books by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. The emphasis in the classes, which consist of teachings, meditation, and discussion, is on gaining practical experience of Buddha’s teachings that can be applied in daily life. If you have been coming to classes regularly and have been getting a lot out of weekly drop-in classes but feel you want to go a bit deeper with your study and practice - then systematic study of the essential Buddhist texts may be a perfect next step for you.
The Programme Teacher
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa is the New General Spiritual Director of New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union and the Resident Teacher of Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre. Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la’s guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world. Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.Â
The Programme Teacher
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa is the New General Spiritual Director of New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union and the Resident Teacher of Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre. Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la’s guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world. Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.Â
About the Study Book
This remarkable book offers us deep insight into our own mind, and shows how an understanding of its nature and functions can be used practically in everyday experience to improve our lives.
- Part One: A practical guide to developing and maintaining a light, positive mind.
- Part Two: Describes different types of mind in detail and how to use these in meditation and daily life.
- Part Three: Â Presents a series of meditations that form the stages of the Buddhist meditative path to enlightenment also known as Lamrim in Tibetan.
Weekly ClassesÂ
Mondays, 7.00 - 9.00 pm.
One month trial available
The study of How to Understand the Mind will commence with an Introductory talk on Monday 20 April 2026, 7.00 - 9.00 pm. The Introductory class will then be followed by 3 taster classes that everyone is welcome to trial before deciding whether to join the programme.
Class DatesÂ
Apr 20, 27, May 4, 11, Jun 8, 15, 22, 29 (Melodious Drum Puja)
Further information & enrolment
For more information and to enrol please contact the Education Programme Coordinator on: education@manjushri.org
The Foundation Programme (FP) at Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre provides an opportunity for residential and non-residential students to engage in systematic study and meditation on the essential subjects of Kadampa Buddhism based on six books by Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. The emphasis in the classes, which consist of teachings, meditation, and discussion, is on gaining practical experience of Buddha’s teachings that can be applied in daily life. If you have been coming to classes regularly and have been getting a lot out of weekly drop-in classes but feel you want to go a bit deeper with your study and practice - then systematic study of the essential Buddhist texts may be a perfect next step for you.
The Programme Teacher
Gen-la Kelsang Jampa is the New General Spiritual Director of New Kadampa Tradition - International Kadampa Buddhist Union and the Resident Teacher of Manjushri Kadampa Meditation Centre. Gen-la Jampa has been a student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for many years, and under Geshe-la’s guidance has taught at many centers and events around the world. Gen-la is well-loved for his clear and inspiring teachings and his ability to touch people’s hearts through his sincerity and loving-kindness.Â
About the Study Book
This remarkable book offers us deep insight into our own mind, and shows how an understanding of its nature and functions can be used practically in everyday experience to improve our lives.
- Part One: A practical guide to developing and maintaining a light, positive mind.
- Part Two: Describes different types of mind in detail and how to use these in meditation and daily life.
- Part Three: Â Presents a series of meditations that form the stages of the Buddhist meditative path to enlightenment also known as Lamrim in Tibetan.
Weekly ClassesÂ
Mondays, 7.00 - 9.00 pm.
One month trial available
The study of How to Understand the Mind will commence with an Introductory talk on Monday 20 April 2026, 7.00 - 9.00 pm. The Introductory class will then be followed by 3 taster classes that everyone is welcome to trial before deciding whether to join the programme.
Class DatesÂ
Apr 20, 27, May 4, 11, Jun 8, 15, 22, 29 (Melodious Drum Puja)
Further information & enrolment
For more information and to enrol please contact the Education Programme Coordinator on: education@manjushri.org
General Programme
Everyone, regardless of their level of experience or background, can benefit from the classes & courses offered on the General Programme. It is a highly accessible programme designed to address everyday problems with simple and practical advice that makes sense according to our daily experience.
These classes and courses provide a basic introduction to Buddhist teachings and meditations. Through these we can learn how to use Buddha's advice as a solution to our daily problems. In this way we come to experience a sense of peace and happiness in our lives.
Everyone is welcome – you do not need to be a Buddhist to attend.