About This Course
The inquiry process is central to the teaching of Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) and adapted Mindfulness based approaches. Unlike other elements of mindfulness teaching, inquiry can't be rehearsed and at times theories and various 'shoulds' can get in the way of what can be a fluid, fruitful and enjoyable process of discovery. This two-day training will provide an opportunity to further develop understanding, skill and confidence in the inquiry process.
The training is mainly experiential and will focus on bringing inquiry back to it's essence, supporting teachers to listen in, relax with and enjoy the inquiry process. As part of this we will explore the intentions of inquiry from both inside and outside of the process, and discover the beauty of inquiry as a support to bringing wonder into our lives. There will be plenty of opportunity to practice inquiry in small groups with fellow mindfulness teachers under the guidance of the training team.
This training is an element of the formal Mindfulness Training Pathway delivered in association with Bangor University and the certificate of attendance can be included in your Training Pathway Portfolio. This course can also be taken as a stand-alone training event as part of your own Continuing Professional and Personal Development. If you register on the training pathway after having completed this training, the certificate can be included retrospectively.
Who is this course suitable for?
The course is open both to experienced mindfulness-based teachers as an opportunity to refresh their personal and teaching practice, and newer teachers who are in the earlier stages of developing teaching skills.
Why study this course?
1. Deepen understanding of the inquiry process
a. Explore inquiry as a central and distinctive element of mindfulness-based teaching.
b. Clarify its role in MBSR, MBCT, and adapted approaches.
2. Develop confidence and skill in facilitating inquiry
a. Strengthen the capacity to hold inquiry as a fluid, responsive, and non-rehearsed process.
b. Build confidence in navigating inquiry without reliance on rigid theories or prescriptive “shoulds.”
3. Return inquiry to its essence
a. Emphasise presence, curiosity, and openness in the moment.
b. Encourage teachers to listen deeply, relax, and engage with inquiry as an enjoyable and creative process.
4. Explore the intentions and functions of inquiry
a. Investigate the purpose of inquiry both from within the participant’s experience and from the teacher’s perspective.
b. Understand inquiry as a way of fostering discovery, insight, and wonder.
5. Engage in experiential practice
a. Participate in small group exercises to practice inquiry in a supported environment.
b. Receive guidance and feedback from experienced trainers.
6. Support professional development
a. Integrate the training into the formal Mindfulness Training Pathway in association with Bangor University.
b. Gain a certificate of attendance for inclusion in the Training Pathway Portfolio or for Continuing Professional and Personal Development (CPPD).
How long does this course take to complete?
This course will be delivered online over two days on 10–11 February 2027, from 9.30am to 5.30pm.
Tutor
Dr Sophie Sansom
Sophie is co-director of the Centre for Mindfulness Research and Practice at Bangor University. As a senior lecturer Sophie teaches on the master's program and is passionate about social and environmental initiatives having recently co-developed the Inner Change Works (ICW) programme. Founder of SiTT (Support for Integrity in Teaching and Training) Sophie has established frameworks for community development and professional standards in the field. Having collaboratively developed a pioneering approach for the recognition of new MBP curricula Sophie chairs the International Panel of Acknowledgement (IPA) hosted by the European Association of Mindfulness-based Approaches (EAMBA). Leading on the scholarship and development of the Mindfulness-based Interventions -Teaching Assessment Criteria Sophie’s academic work explores ways of supporting pedagogical innovation and accessibility while upholding quality and integrity; a key focus in her role as Chair of the British Association of Mindfulness-based Approaches (BAMBA).
Course Cost
- The fee for February 2027 will be £377.00 (including VAT).
Entry Requirements
Pre-requisites for attending:
- personal experience of an MBCT or MBSR eight-week course
- an established personal mindfulness practice
- have participated in the Mindfulness Network Essentials training or equivalent
- to have some experience of teaching Mindfulness-based Interventions/Courses
Participants must commit to the entire online training. Unless there are exceptional circumstances, we are unable to negotiate late arrivals or early leaving. If this is not possible, please contact us to discuss before submitting an application.
Application
To register your interest in this course please click on the link:
Specialist Training - Inquiry Skills (2027)