Our onsite and online courses costs just $50 and is payable during the online enrolment or by cash or EFTPOS at the first onsite session.

Our aim is to discover and realise in life the truth about one’s self and the unity that lies within creation. This study leads our students to a conclusion that all religions and philosophies reflect differing aspects of the one truth. This can help us in practice to find our own inner strength, freedom, intelligence and happiness. Qualities which then reflect naturally in life.

We draw inspiration from many philosophies and religious traditions from around the world including the Platonic tradition, the Judaeo-Christian. We are particularly inspired by the ancient concepts of Advaita Vedanta.

Practical Philosophy is a journey of discovery through study, discussion and reflection. Where the truth of what we have learnt is then applied to and tested against the experience of everyday life.

The Greek philosopher Socrates defined philosophy as “the love of wisdom”. Our goal is to discover truth and develop wisdom by the practical application in our daily lives of what has been discovered through philosophical teaching.

No. Our practical approach to philosophy is open to everyone, from all walks of life; working, professional, at home or academic. Our courses deal with the experience and challenges of everyday life. If you are interested in this practical approach, willing to join in discussions and ready to enter into the spirit of the investigation then that is all you need. If you have studied philosophy before in an academic setting you may find this a different and intriguing approach.

The group sessions take on a different topic each week. In each weekly class a discussion is facilitated to combine relevant excerpts from a variety of philosophers and as each student’s own experience of the topic. Students are asked to observe what goes on in and around them during the week in relation to the topic and these observations form the basis for the following week’s discussion.

The basis of the approach is reasonable enquiry and students are asked to neither passively accept nor reject what is discussed but to actively seek to discover for themselves whether what is proposed is true or false.

Many students find a greater sense of purpose, peace of mind, contentment and understanding of themselves and the world around them as well as the discovery of new abilities and talents.

Our courses are not academic qualifications. The only test that is given is everyday life: are we happier, more effective, more peaceful? There are no certificates, diplomas or qualifications; just the opportunity to examine life and keep growing and learning.

Our classes are open discussions based on readings and observations where we encourage group participation facilitated by a course tutor.

Yes, our courses are open to anyone regardless of age, race, sex or religious or other belief. Many students actively practice their own faiths and beliefs and are supported in this by our tutors in an open and inclusive manner.

Generally, we would advise that the level of maturity required within our group sessions would not be suitable for children. We have no upper age limit for attending our courses. If you would like to discuss your own situation with on of our team please fill in our form on the contact page.

We provide all of the information you will require when you begin the course so no advanced reading or previous study is required.

Yes, if you have already attended one or some of our courses there are even more on offer. Most people find substantial benefit in expanding their knowledge of philosophy both in general and in some of more specific courses that cover topics such as; True happiness, Love, Presence of mind and Freedom. We have students who have been participating in the School’s courses and retreats since it was founded in the 1960 and find a strong sense of community.

To sign up for your next course you speak to your course tutor or get in touch through our contact page.

Our tutors are all men and women who have studied philosophy in the School of Philosophy for many years. They come from all walks of life, united by a shared love of wisdom, and volunteer their time to teach. Tutors are selected for the breadth of their understanding, their character and their devotion to principle. Every tutor in the School remains a student in their own group to help them grow in their own understanding.

Our course Introduction to Practical Philosophy and Mindfulness is held on Tuesdays in Auckland and on a Tuesday in Hamilton. For details about the next introductory course dates and times please head to our enrol page.

*The same material is taught in each of the sessions during the week so it is possible to vary your attendance between the different sessions. For further courses, your course tutor will give you information directly.

For information about the next Introduction to Practical Philosophy and Mindfulness course please head to our enrol page.

To find out about the dates for any other courses please contact us on 0800 610 539.

If we haven’t answered your questions on this frequently asked questions page already then please head to our Contact Us page and fill in our online form. Alternatively, if you would like to call us you can get in touch on 0800 610 539.

You might also be interested to read some comments from students about their experiences at the School of Philosophy.

You can also find our details in the Citizens Advice Bureau directory.

We approach mindfulness by learning how to practically develop a better understanding around self-awareness. Mindfulness is first explored in our introductory course and throughout later courses and students are encouraged to practice mindfulness techniques to experience a positive impact on their daily lives. Want to find out more? Head to our information page about mindfulness here.

“Perhaps the simplest way to describe it is to say that mindfulness is the practice of paying attention: knowing where our attention is and being able to choose where to direct it” – Dr C Hassed.

Meditation allows the experience of deep inner peace and happiness and, over time, can make these qualities part of everyday life. We teach and practice mantra meditation based on the Advaita Vedanta tradition because we’ve found through long experience that it works. About twice a year students of the school are invited to receive the meditation system we offer. There is a full briefing offered about meditation before it is introduced in a short, time-honoured ceremony.

A once-only donation is requested for receiving our meditation system. Following the introduction, the School offers free and continued care and support for meditation as long as you want it, even if you stop attending courses.

Meditation is only offered to students attending our philosophy courses. Those who accept attend a Zoom class once a week for 4 weeks. This course covers the key benefits of meditation, and the type of meditation available through the school. There are no one-off meditation classes, and we do not offer meditation publically.

We appreciate all feedback (both good and bad) as it lets us know what we are getting right and where we can make your experience even better. If you have something to share please head to our contact us page https://philosophy.nz/contact/ and share your comments there.

Alternatively, you can review us on our Facebook page here: www.facebook.com/schoolofphilosophynz/reviews.

The School of Philosophy has a sister school that offers courses in Wellington, and Masterton . The online course option also means you can partake anywhere in the country. We also have a list of schools that we can recommend internationally.

To find out how to get in touch with these schools please head to our affiliations page.

The original school is the School of Economic Science in London, England, founded in the 1930’s. As students relocated over the years, new schools began around the world, each reflecting the society in which it is established. Like our Auckland school, each is legally autonomous and administered by the more senior students. The Schools maintain regular contact with each other and share a common approach to the subjects studied.

The answer is yes. Get in touch through our contact page or by calling us on 0800 610 539 and let us know your details and the last course you attended and we can let you know about your next course and upcoming start dates.

We understand that from time to time it is helpful to take a break from studying and we want to make returning to the school as straightforward as possible.

The School of Philosophy is entirely supported by course fees and donations. As a not-for-profit, charitable organisation our funds go entirely to support courses, events and retreats, to maintain buildings and to advertise courses. All our tutors and administrative team are volunteers who do not receive payment for their services to the school. Over the 50 years that we have been in existence we have purchased two buildings, funded by fees, donations and loans.

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Yes, find us on Facebook here and please give us a like to keep up to date with what is happening at the school.

Subjects such as; Sanskrit, and Greek Philosophy are explored in greater depth in study groups formed by interested students. If you would like to find out what groups are happening near to you and how to contact them please call us on 0800 610 539 or speak to your course tutor.

No, although we do welcome all people from all beliefs and religions. The school of philosophy has a simple goal – to facilitate classes and discussions for thoughtful people that cover key areas of philosophy.

Though we are affiliated with other similar organisations around the world we are legally and financially autonomous and have intentionally structured the school to be transparent in its role as a facility for study.

Under special circumstances* we can make the centre available for hire. To enquire please fill in the form on our contact page, or call us on 0800 610 539.

*Please note that this facility is in frequent use by the school and we reserve the right to decline a booking enquiry.