The Shala London

Baby Massage & Yoga | Mummy & Me Club IN STUDIO

Join us every Wednesday for this intimate session for mums & babies to learn and experience baby massage and yoga.

Baby Massage & Yoga | Mummy & Me Club

IN STUDIO in West Norwood / West Dulwich, South London

Our Mummy & Me baby massage club is an intimate session for mums & babies to learn and experience baby massage and yoga.

This class emphasises on connection and presence. Alexa provides a relaxed and supportive space for dedicated parent and baby time, learning a valuable skill for life to support you and your baby.

In our Baby Massage sessions, you’ll learn techniques to: 

  • relax the baby’s diaphragm for full and efficient breathing
  • bring flexibility to hips and shoulders
  • strengthen their back, arms and legs in preparation for sitting and standing. 
 

In our Mum & Baby Yoga sessions, you’ll enjoy this special way to connect with your baby, to gently aid your own post-natal recovery and get to know other mothers. Rhymes and rhythmic movement are used to enhance your baby’s well-being and development, while post-natal postures for the mother will enhance muscle tone, offer support for the back and boost energy levels. At the end of the class, there is time for mums to swap tips and share experiences over tea.

All of this happens in an atmosphere of loving, joyful play. This class is a perfect continuation of your journey into parenthood from our Pregnancy Yoga classes. Evolve your practice and connection with your baby from preparing for birth through delivery through the early months of your baby’s life.

Benefits of Baby Massage

  • reduces crying

  • helps relieve colic

  • improves sleep

  • encourages mother-baby bonding through physical contact

  • sensory and muscle stimulation

  • relaxes both parent & child

What you Need to Know

  • Please bring a towel for the baby and all bits and bobs including your own massage oil.

  • We recommend organic virgin coconut oil. Avoid commercial baby oils as these are usually highly perfumed. As mineral oil they are cheap derivatives of crude petroleum. They tend to feel greasy and gritty and have no organic value.

  • As a suggestion maybe also bring a teddy bear or doll next to you in case baby falls asleep or is not interested in baby massage so you can still practice the sequence.

  • We strongly recommend you arrive carrying your baby in a sling. Unfortunately, there is no space to leave prams in the ground floor. We apologise for any inconvenience.

  • We do ask that you take away any dirty nappies with you when you leave the studio after class

  • Partners are welcome for baby massage week (first week of every month). 

Benefits of Baby Yoga

Baby yoga, which complements infant massage, offers quality physical stimulation including flowing postures, holding, movement, touch, voice and deep relaxation. It induces a happy, care-free and lively parent-infant interaction which develops as the babies grow. The experience of movement combined with touch is probably the richest stimulation we can offer babies from birth.

In yoga, this stimulation occurs through the mutual involvement of parent and baby, at a pace at which the baby can absorb and integrate it. As yoga postures induce deep relaxation in adults, so in babies they bring a state of deep contentment and promote deep sleep. This playful stimulation through yoga-based exercise is the best possible way of helping babies relish life, with all its demands, as they grow.

  • During the class you will learn sequences with your child, which will stimulate the body’s systems and encourage co-ordination and flexibility. There will be a mix of dynamic exercises, special holds and relaxation techniques. This is “pure baby yoga” which originated from Dr Francoise Freedman’s work with the Peruvian Amazonian people.

  • in one short session, the baby is given as much physical activity as they would receive if they were handled and carried all day – this activity enhances deep sleep and more “settled” behaviour

  • a daily routine of activity is established through which the parent can engage constructively with their baby from birth

  • all the baby’s bodily systems are stimulated, including the digestive and nervous systems

  • the parent and baby get to know each other, enhancing communication and bonding between them and instilling confidence in the mother

  • birth traumas are healed and the baby becomes better equipped to deal with shocks

  • the baby’s enjoyment of the positive stress of yoga will increase the baby’s ability to cope with future challenges

  • through the high quality attention the baby receives from its parents, the baby learns to interact with others and play actively

  • the deep relaxation that is part of yoga helps parents cope with the stresses of early parenting.

upcoming classes

Yoga Teacher Training | 200-hour Foundation Course

in Studio in South London with some learning Online

This unique programme has evolved from more than 20 years’ experience of running a yoga centre. The course is accredited by the Yoga Alliance and is designed to  give you the skills, knowledge and motivation needed to thrive in today’s yoga environment. 

The teaching faculty comprises some of the UK’s most experienced and inspirational teachers including Gingi Lee, Kath Roberts, Melanie Cooper, Jennie Wadsten, Dr Matthew Clark & Stu Girling. The course offers a solid foundation for all students, whether you know you wish to teach yoga, or you are initially looking to enrich your own personal yoga journey. 

Course Overview

The Shala School of Yoga was set up in 2016 for our experienced teaching team to pass on their considerable knowledge and produce a new generation of inspiring and authentic yoga teachers. The programme crafts and intertwines traditional methods with a more contemporary approach and provides a non-dogmatic comprehensive immersion introducing the vast subject of yoga. We examine many aspects of the science of yoga, from the physical practices of asana, pranayama, kriya and anatomy to the mental, philosophical and spiritual nature of the practice. The asana study is influenced by ashtanga yoga but is broad in scope.  


Our wider teacher training  programme  is based on modules to allow you the flexibility to choose your own individual path of learning. We also study through a blended approach, with in studio, livestream and on demand options for many courses, which allows you to comprehend topics fully and with a variety of learning styles in mind. The course gives space for learning, reading, coursework and teaching practice. 

 

Our objective for graduates who wish to teach yoga is to instill confidence, compassion and integrity. We aim for our graduate teachers to teach with passion and inspiration and for them to be able to spread yoga authentically to others in a meaningful way. Our 200-hour programme accepts 18-24 students per intake, allowing those involved to feel like they are part of a community and get the attention, nurture and guidance to take part in what is for most students a hugely transformational experience. 

 
Pranayama Practice, Teacher Training

Graduate Course Feedback

"Words can't describe how transformational this course has been. I would do it again and again!"
"I feel for me there has been a shift in my life and I feel uplifted and so grateful to Gingi, Kath, Ella and all the guest teachers. I’ve learned so much, through their passion enthusiasm and knowledge for the yoga."
"The experience that the teachers have in the field of yoga is priceless!"
"Fantastic course. All have put their heart and soul into it."
"I feel so well supported and nourished."
"Fantastic course structured around the many aspects of yoga, with teachers and speakers that are clearly leading in their field and passionate about what they do."
"Huge gratitude to the lead teachers who espouse the qualities of great yogis. And many thanks for all the guest teachers and everyone else in the background. It’s been a great journey."
"I will be forever grateful to you all for our training – it was just brilliant!"
"Perfect mix of teachers, every aspect is well covered, informative and taught with a clear love and passion for the subject! This course has been a real journey and I couldn't be more grateful to be part of it."
"I appreciate how you have all been so open and approachable. You are generous with your time and energy and excellent organisation makes it all flow. Your teamwork is one of many factors, which contribute to such a warm, lovely, supportive atmosphere."
"This training has been transformational to an extent that I didn't expect. The depth of knowledge shared has been a huge privilege and much more than I could have hoped for."
"what most surprised me was the amount of support and nurture from Gingi and Kath. I feel increasingly secure and confident in passing on the yoga teachings."
"I have finished the course brimming with confidence and looking forward to the future."
"The Shala TTC has been incredibly transformational and has given me insight into many different aspects of yoga. I feel I have benefitted from the wisdom of some incredible teachers and for that I am very grateful."
"I say, by experience, that it was by far the best yoga teacher training that I was ever involved with. I am finally at the point where I can say that Yes, I am a yoga teacher. The experience and nurturing and knowledge given by the Shala team was so impressive that I am sure that what I have learned is already encrypted in my teaching!"
"The knowledge of the teachers is incredible"
"The course has been transformational from every angle. I have been challenged at every step. However, I keep going because of the amazing support that I get from all of you."
"I am extremely grateful to Gingi, Kath and Ella for their passion and devotion in shaping the yoga teachers of tomorrow. Their wisdom and support are invaluable as is the safe environment they create for trainees to grow personally as well as as future teachers."
"This course already contains so much more than I hoped for!"
"I really appreciate all of the thought and preparation that has gone into the course. I have learned so much."
"I can't believe that I have been blessed with such amazing teachers."
"I've felt the whole team is really present and there for us individually and collectively."
"Completing this course was a deeply transformational experience for me; I learned so much about yoga and about myself. Practically, the course was assembled with evident care and informed by vast collective experience, and it covered a lot more material than I was expecting. I particularly appreciated the advanced pranayama and kriya techniques, voice exercises, metta meditation and qi gong. Personally it was delivered by all tutors with insight, care and compassion and deep personal commitments to sharing all the wonderful wisdom of yoga. I'm really excited to translate all of this into teaching!"
"It's an honour to be in the space with such compassionate knowledgeable people."
"an intense, inspiring and wonderful year studying at the Shala... huge gratitude to the beautiful teachers and fellow yogis who have guided me through this journey."
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Teaching Faculty

The Shala School of Yoga brings together an exceptionally experienced and gifted team of teachers giving a broad and diverse exploration of the subject. Leading the 2021 courses are senior Yoga Alliance registered teachers Gingi Lee and Kath Roberts and Melanie Cooper. Together the three of them bring over 75 combined years of teaching experience and each have themselves come from a strong lineage of teachers under whom they have studied.

Supporting Teachers

Also on the team are: Dr Matthew Clark who will delve into the History and Philosophy of yoga; Melanie Cooper who brings Anatomy and Physiology to life, Norman Blair who will introduce you to Yin practices and Hamish Hendry sharing his experiences and invaluable insight on Dharma Philosophy and teaching Ashtanga Yoga.  

 

Lead Teacher: Melanie Cooper

Melanie has been teaching yoga since 1997 and teaching on teacher trainings since 2010. She is a versatile and highly experienced teacher who teaches  on our Level 1 and Level 2 programme. She is passionate about the ability of yoga to heal and transform peoples’ lives and her deep connection to and love of yoga is evident in her teachings.

Melanie is a genuine and down to earth teacher who brings a vast breadth of knowledge to her trainings. She offers a place where you can find what works for you, a place where you will be welcomed as you are with no judgement or expectations – where you can find the practice and way of teaching that is truly right for you.

Melanie divides her time between the UK and Goa running teacher trainings and retreats in UK, Sweden, Crete and India. Sometimes she can be spotted dancing on the beach. She is the author of ‘Teaching Yoga Adjusting Asana’.

Gingi Lee Yoga

Lead Teacher: Gingi Lee

The founder of the Shala, Gingi has taught, trained and inspired many British and international yoga teachers over the last two decades. Gingi initially studied and taught martial arts and then moved on to study Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga with the late Derek Ireland. He has been teaching yoga for 25+ years and running his own centre for 21 years. In the last few years he has regularly trained with Bodyrolling innovator Yamuna Zake and he now incorporates this practice into his teachings. Read more on his Biography. 

Gingi is “a passionate and knowledgeable teacher, who engages with the students and creates an open and honest environment for sharing and learning.”

 

“I didn’t expect to go so deep with this practice on the TTC. Very intense and emotional experience. Gingi held such a safe supportive space it was really special.”

 

“I feel very lucky to learn from such a gifted adjuster. Gingi has such a lovely approach to this art.”

Kath Roberts Teacher Training

Lead Teacher: Kath Roberts

Kath has been an integral part of the faculty since its inception and has been teaching with Gingi at the Shala since 2003. With 30 years of experience on the mat and 20+ years of teaching experience, she brings an extraordinary depth and breadth of knowledge as a teacher. Kath’s far-reaching influences include Sivananda, Ashtanga and most noticeably Iyengar and she fuses these styles in her teachings, creating a rich and informed approach to yoga. Read more on her Biography.

 

“Kath is an outstanding teacher who combines a wonderful understanding of technique and purpose with great empathy and compassion.”

 

“Kath is an authentic and dedicated teacher who teaches with infinite humility, integrity and compassion.”

 

“kind, humble and her students are her priority.”

“Kath brings about a different energy… her nurturing qualities and quiet energy have been so crucial to the course”

I can't get enough of Asana foundations. The knowledge that Kath and Gingi share with us is invaluable. It's pure gold.
SD
Gingi’s and Kath’s knowledge is exceptional and unparalleled, and they both complement each other so well. Gingi gives the group a sense of energy and drive. And Kath guides the group to a space that is nurturing and accepting. I am extremely fortunate and grateful to have the two as the main teachers.
AM
A big shout to Kath's amazing knowledge of the foundations of the different asanas and to Gingi's focus on how to get the body moving with the breath, their teachings really do complement each other in a great way!
CB
The mix of Kath and Gingi is amazing!! Couldn't imagine better teachers.
ES
The knowledge that Kath has in pranayama is unparalleled in my opinion. And I love Gingi's chanting, it's for the soul. These sessions ground me so beautifully.
CB
The course is beyond beautiful because of two very distinct and beautiful individuals holding the space.
SS
this course has truly been life-changing. It was a journey to the depth of my soul, opening my mind and my heart. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity of community, connection and personal transformation during such a tumultuous year. It was incredibly challenging but even more rewarding. It was a privilege to have been guided and nurtured by Kath, Gingi and Ella who have an incomparable wealth of knowledge and experience. Each teacher and student generously created a space where it felt safe to laugh, to cry, to grow, to learn, to teach, to love, to share, to connect, to move, to trust, to overcome, to believe, to let go, to express, to shine, to simply be. There are no words to express how eternally grateful I will be for this life-affirming experience and each individual I shared every step of this path with.
ZS
The course was a watershed for me. I have been practising yoga for over twenty years, and was very reluctant to pursue teaching. The course gave me confidence and strengthened my love of the practice. I feel so grateful to Kath Gingi and Ella for the rigour of the training and the spirit of collaboration which they brought to the course. I learnt so much, and felt that the course had really helped me in my personal development as a human being.
VS
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Course Structure

Modules

The 200-hour programme comprises of four modules, all four of which must be completed if you wish to gain a 200-hour certificate

 

If you join the course then we reserve a space for you on all four upcoming modules. There is, however, flexibility for the Anatomy and the Philosophy modules to be deferred to a later date as long as all four modules are completed within 1 to 2 years to gain certification. Modules can also be done as stand-alone courses with no 200-hour certification. Click on the links above to read more about each individual module.

Mentoring

The course includes monthly small group mentoring by the lead teachers who will hold session via Zoom throughout the duration of Foundation 2. The aim of these sessions is to support you through the course and provide a safe and more intimite forum for discussion and answering any specific questions which may come up for you.  

Blended Learning

We understand that many students work full time at the same time as studying, while others may have caring responsibilities and other commitments, so we offer a degree of flexibility with the format of our course. The programme has some components of blended learning in the form of livestream online sessions and some pre-recorded content for philosophy and anatomy which can, should you wish to, be completed at later dates.

Foundations 1 and 2 take place in the studio and we do require students to attend in person. We feel strongly that these practices are best learnt and experienced in person where we can fully explore the deeper energetics and nuances, including communicating through touch. In instances where you are absolutely unable to come into the studio, then we can  accommodate the option to attend via Zoom livestream, but this should be in exceptional circumstances.


Elective Modules

As a Shala 200-hour student you have the added benefit of being able to study any of our additional specialist modules to allow you to also teach areas of yoga that are of particular interest to you. These specialist interest courses range from pregnancy yoga to sequencing, aerial, yin yoga, yoga nidra and restorative yoga. Students completing Foundation 1, 2 and Philosophy 1 and Anatomy 1 who also do a specialist module would be qualified to teach these as specialist subjects (although there are some exceptions to this rule).  See other elective modules here.

Syllabus

This 200-hour course is a foundation yoga course which will introduce students to the vast subject of yoga. The Asana module will be influenced by ashtanga but will be broad in scope using the ashtanga sequence as a framework to explore postures and hands-on adjustments in more depth. We will explore an accessible beginners vinyasa sequence, in addition to the full ashtanga primary sequence and students will be equipped to go on to teach ashtanga or to explore vinyasa sequencing of their own. The approach will be non-dogmatic and will touch on the traditional and more contemporary approaches to yoga. You will learn some hands-on adjustments, detailed alignment and technical break down of the postures.


A typical day starts with pranayama, meditation and/or chanting and an asana practice. There are 205 contact hours in total in addition to about 50-75 non-contact hours required for assignments and coursework. For more on how the course breaks down please see the drop down menu on Syllabus Breakdown below.

What you can expect from the Course

By the end of the course you can expect to:

  • be able to confidently teach a dynamic led Level 1 and Level 2 class influenced by the ashtanga system 
  • be able to safely adjust many of the postures in the ashtanga primary series
  • have an understanding of anatomy & physiology and be able to translate this into your teachings
  • have a connection with the philosophical and historical roots of yoga and be able to transmit this into teaching
  • have a full grasp of the ethics of yoga and how this translates into being a teacher
  • be confident to lead simple pranayama, meditation and chanting within the class
  • have a deeper connection to yoga and be living yoga beyond the mat
Ashtanga Yoga Primary Series

The Shala School of Yoga Teacher Training Programme

The Shala teacher training has blown my mind wide open. The course is carefully structured, includes brilliant guest expert yogis and provides you the space to learn not just how to be a good yoga teacher - but to be your own kind of yoga teacher. It has been a great honour to be led by Gingi and Kath..
JA
The Shala has provided a beautifully balanced teacher training course and one of the most worthwhile experiences I've ever had. They have created an exceptional learning environment with wonderful teachers whose devotion to the art, science and discipline of Yoga is matched by their gift and expertise in teaching it.
LC
I can honestly say that The Shala TT course is one of the best things I've ever done. It's helped me so much personally and it's such a privilege to be learning from such exceptional teachers, at such an incredible studio. I firmly believe that it is one of the best in the country.
SD
Life changing...I knew that the Shala's Yoga TT was going to be good; just not how good. Gingi and Kath are such a perfect pair to lead the course - their compassion, coupled with their unbelievable depth of knowledge and experience, really makes the course. The quality of the whole team is unbelievable.
ES
The professionalism and attention to detail is exceptional, but also the team’s ability to create a space that is nourishing and accepting was equally important. Ella, Gingi and Kath gave us that.
AM
The best thing I have ever done in my life was to embark on this journey and the YTT @theshalalondon. All of the Shala team are just amazing. This beautiful space has a very special place in my heart.
AM
Every step has become a moment that I will cherish forever.
SS
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2022 Course Dates

  • The dates of our 200-hour modules are set out below and will not change unless there are exceptional circumstances. 
  • It is essential that you are available to attend all days of each module to fulfil your requirements and graduate from the training. 
  • If accepted on to the course you will be reserved a place for all four upcoming modules (Foundations 1, Foundations 2, Anatomy 1, Philosophy 1).
  • It is possible to sign up for the modules one by one and spread them out over a longer period of learning though this is a less economical way to do the course.
  • As long as all modules are successfully completed within a period of 2 years you can still attain a 200-hour accreditation. 
  • Your starting point should always be Foundations 1 which usually runs twice a year. 
  • When IN STUDIO, the course takes place at the Shala in West Norwood. 
  • The hours for Foundations 1 & 2 are usually 9am–6pm in the studio. In extenuating circumstances it will be possible to attend via Zoom but this is not encouraged. 
  • Here are the upcoming dates for Foundations 1 & 2. You can choose to do both modules with the same lead teacher(s) or you can opt for different lead teachers for each module.

Foundations 1 with Gingi Lee & Kath Roberts IN STUDIO

  • Saturday 8 January 2022
  • Sunday 9 January 2022 
  • Friday 11 February 2022
  • Saturday 12 February 2022
  • Sunday 13 February 2022
  • Friday 18 March 2022
  • Saturday 19 March 2022
  • Sunday 20 March 2022

Foundations 2 with Gingi Lee & Kath Roberts IN STUDIO

  • Saturday 30 April 2022
  • Sunday 1 May 2022
  • Monday 2 May 2022
  • Saturday 4 June 2022
  • Sunday 5 June 2022
  • Monday 6 June 2022
  • Saturday 2 July 2022
  • Sunday 3 July 2022
  • Monday 4 July 2022
  • Saturday 10 September 2022
  • Sunday 11 September 2022
  • Monday 12 September 2022

Foundations 1 with Melanie Cooper IN STUDIO or ONLINE

  • Friday 30 September 2022
  • Saturday 1 October 2022
  • Sunday 2 October 2022
  • Monday 3 October 2022
  • Friday 18 November 2022
  • Saturday 19 November 2022
  • Sunday 20 November2022
  • Monday 21 November 2022

Foundations 2 with Melanie Cooper IN STUDIO

    • Friday, 13 January 2023
    • Saturday, 14 January 2023
    • Sunday, 15 January 2023
    • Monday, 16 January 2023
    • Friday, 24 February 2023
    • Saturday, 25 February 2023
    • Sunday, 26 February 2023
    • Monday, 27 February 2023
    • Friday, 24 March 2023
    • Saturday, 25 March 2023
    • Sunday, 26 March 2023
    • Monday, 27 March 2023

For the next Anatomy and Philosophy Module dates please see respective module pages.

Or Click here for a pdf of whole schedule with all modules for our next course.

Fees

  • £2,985 course fees for the entire course comprising of all four modules taken consecutively - once your application has been approved you will be reserved a place on all four upcoming modules.
  • £3485 If you do not commit to upcoming dates and choose instead to book the modules individually on an ad hoc basis
  • £495 non-refundable deposit on being accepted on the 200-hour course, this guarantees you a place on each upcoming module. Places will not be held without a deposit
  • Further payments can be set up on a BACS transfer payment plan to be arranged. Full payment for each individual module needs to be paid in full before starting each module.
  • Fees include: the course manual and other material, training and assessment by a qualified Yoga Alliance Professional SYT: certificate if you successfully complete the course. The fee does not include travel, accommodation, food or insurance.

Discount on Shala classes

  • During the period you are enrolled on Foundations 1 and Foundations 2, you will be eligible for a 20% concession discount on 1, 5 and 10-class passes and workshops that take place.

Practicalities

Course Requirements & Recommendations

  • You should have a regular and committed asana practice (minimum of three years) with knowledge of the ashtanga primary series.
  • Recommendation from your main teacher.
  • We strongly advise you attend classes with the lead teachers before applying.
  • We expect you to have some understanding of yoga beyond the physical practice.
  • Successful applicants should be in good health and have stable personal circumstances

Application Process

  • If you would like to be considered for our next intake, please submit your full application form here.
  • Early applications are highly recommended as we are usually heavily oversubscribed.
  • Places will be allocated in stages so we will not be able to consider late applications if all places have been allocated.
  • On acceptance of your place we will send you bank details to pay the deposit to confirm your place on the course and you will be registered for the next dates for each of the four modules.
  • Please email if you have any specific questions or if you would like to book a call to discuss the course in more detail.
  • Please email if you have any specific learning requirements and we will do all that we can to support you.
APPLICATION FORM

Open Days

We invite you to join us for our Open Day which will take place IN STUDIO and will also be livestreamed. Alternatively you are welcome to book a call with one of the lead teachers or the course organiser. Just drop us an email with suggested times and a phone number.

OPEN DAY IN STUDIO SIGN UP
OPEN DAY VIRTUAL SIGN UP

Yoga Teacher Training | 200-hour Foundation Course

in Studio in South London with some learning Online

This unique programme has evolved from more than 20 years’ experience of running a yoga centre. The course is accredited by the Yoga Alliance and is designed to  give you the skills, knowledge and motivation needed to thrive in today’s yoga environment. 

The teaching faculty comprises some of the UK’s most experienced and inspirational teachers including Gingi Lee, Kath Roberts, Melanie Cooper, Jennie Wadsten, Dr Matthew Clark & Stu Girling. The course offers a solid foundation for all students, whether you know you wish to teach yoga, or you are initially looking to enrich your own personal yoga journey. 

Course Overview

The Shala School of Yoga was set up in 2016 for our experienced teaching team to pass on their considerable knowledge and produce a new generation of inspiring and authentic yoga teachers. The programme crafts and intertwines traditional methods with a more contemporary approach and provides a non-dogmatic comprehensive immersion introducing the vast subject of yoga. We examine many aspects of the science of yoga, from the physical practices of asana, pranayama, kriya and anatomy to the mental, philosophical and spiritual nature of the practice. The asana study is influenced by ashtanga yoga but is broad in scope.  


Our wider teacher training  programme  is based on modules to allow you the flexibility to choose your own individual path of learning. We also study through a blended approach, with in studio, livestream and on demand options for many courses, which allows you to comprehend topics fully and with a variety of learning styles in mind. The course gives space for learning, reading, coursework and teaching practice. 

 

Our objective for graduates who wish to teach yoga is to instill confidence, compassion and integrity. We aim for our graduate teachers to teach with passion and inspiration and for them to be able to spread yoga authentically to others in a meaningful way. Our 200-hour programme accepts 18-24 students per intake, allowing those involved to feel like they are part of a community and get the attention, nurture and guidance to take part in what is for most students a hugely transformational experience. 

 
Pranayama Practice, Teacher Training

Graduate Course Feedback

"Words can't describe how transformational this course has been. I would do it again and again!"
"I feel for me there has been a shift in my life and I feel uplifted and so grateful to Gingi, Kath, Ella and all the guest teachers. I’ve learned so much, through their passion enthusiasm and knowledge for the yoga."
"The experience that the teachers have in the field of yoga is priceless!"
"Fantastic course. All have put their heart and soul into it."
"I feel so well supported and nourished."
"Fantastic course structured around the many aspects of yoga, with teachers and speakers that are clearly leading in their field and passionate about what they do."
"Huge gratitude to the lead teachers who espouse the qualities of great yogis. And many thanks for all the guest teachers and everyone else in the background. It’s been a great journey."
"I will be forever grateful to you all for our training – it was just brilliant!"
"Perfect mix of teachers, every aspect is well covered, informative and taught with a clear love and passion for the subject! This course has been a real journey and I couldn't be more grateful to be part of it."
"I appreciate how you have all been so open and approachable. You are generous with your time and energy and excellent organisation makes it all flow. Your teamwork is one of many factors, which contribute to such a warm, lovely, supportive atmosphere."
"This training has been transformational to an extent that I didn't expect. The depth of knowledge shared has been a huge privilege and much more than I could have hoped for."
"what most surprised me was the amount of support and nurture from Gingi and Kath. I feel increasingly secure and confident in passing on the yoga teachings."
"I have finished the course brimming with confidence and looking forward to the future."
"The Shala TTC has been incredibly transformational and has given me insight into many different aspects of yoga. I feel I have benefitted from the wisdom of some incredible teachers and for that I am very grateful."
"I say, by experience, that it was by far the best yoga teacher training that I was ever involved with. I am finally at the point where I can say that Yes, I am a yoga teacher. The experience and nurturing and knowledge given by the Shala team was so impressive that I am sure that what I have learned is already encrypted in my teaching!"
"The knowledge of the teachers is incredible"
"The course has been transformational from every angle. I have been challenged at every step. However, I keep going because of the amazing support that I get from all of you."
"I am extremely grateful to Gingi, Kath and Ella for their passion and devotion in shaping the yoga teachers of tomorrow. Their wisdom and support are invaluable as is the safe environment they create for trainees to grow personally as well as as future teachers."
"This course already contains so much more than I hoped for!"
"I really appreciate all of the thought and preparation that has gone into the course. I have learned so much."
"I can't believe that I have been blessed with such amazing teachers."
"I've felt the whole team is really present and there for us individually and collectively."
"Completing this course was a deeply transformational experience for me; I learned so much about yoga and about myself. Practically, the course was assembled with evident care and informed by vast collective experience, and it covered a lot more material than I was expecting. I particularly appreciated the advanced pranayama and kriya techniques, voice exercises, metta meditation and qi gong. Personally it was delivered by all tutors with insight, care and compassion and deep personal commitments to sharing all the wonderful wisdom of yoga. I'm really excited to translate all of this into teaching!"
"It's an honour to be in the space with such compassionate knowledgeable people."
"an intense, inspiring and wonderful year studying at the Shala... huge gratitude to the beautiful teachers and fellow yogis who have guided me through this journey."
Previous
Next

Teaching Faculty

The Shala School of Yoga brings together an exceptionally experienced and gifted team of teachers giving a broad and diverse exploration of the subject. Leading the 2021 courses are senior Yoga Alliance registered teachers Gingi Lee and Kath Roberts and Melanie Cooper. Together the three of them bring over 75 combined years of teaching experience and each have themselves come from a strong lineage of teachers under whom they have studied.

Supporting Teachers

Also on the team are: Dr Matthew Clark who will delve into the History and Philosophy of yoga; Melanie Cooper who brings Anatomy and Physiology to life, Norman Blair who will introduce you to Yin practices and Hamish Hendry sharing his experiences and invaluable insight on Dharma Philosophy and teaching Ashtanga Yoga.  

 

Lead Teacher: Melanie Cooper

Melanie has been teaching yoga since 1997 and teaching on teacher trainings since 2010. She is a versatile and highly experienced teacher who teaches  on our Level 1 and Level 2 programme. She is passionate about the ability of yoga to heal and transform peoples’ lives and her deep connection to and love of yoga is evident in her teachings.

Melanie is a genuine and down to earth teacher who brings a vast breadth of knowledge to her trainings. She offers a place where you can find what works for you, a place where you will be welcomed as you are with no judgement or expectations – where you can find the practice and way of teaching that is truly right for you.

Melanie divides her time between the UK and Goa running teacher trainings and retreats in UK, Sweden, Crete and India. Sometimes she can be spotted dancing on the beach. She is the author of ‘Teaching Yoga Adjusting Asana’.

Gingi Lee Yoga

Lead Teacher: Gingi Lee

The founder of the Shala, Gingi has taught, trained and inspired many British and international yoga teachers over the last two decades. Gingi initially studied and taught martial arts and then moved on to study Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga with the late Derek Ireland. He has been teaching yoga for 25+ years and running his own centre for 21 years. In the last few years he has regularly trained with Bodyrolling innovator Yamuna Zake and he now incorporates this practice into his teachings. Read more on his Biography. 

Gingi is “a passionate and knowledgeable teacher, who engages with the students and creates an open and honest environment for sharing and learning.”

 

“I didn’t expect to go so deep with this practice on the TTC. Very intense and emotional experience. Gingi held such a safe supportive space it was really special.”

 

“I feel very lucky to learn from such a gifted adjuster. Gingi has such a lovely approach to this art.”

Kath Roberts Teacher Training

Lead Teacher: Kath Roberts

Kath has been an integral part of the faculty since its inception and has been teaching with Gingi at the Shala since 2003. With 30 years of experience on the mat and 20+ years of teaching experience, she brings an extraordinary depth and breadth of knowledge as a teacher. Kath’s far-reaching influences include Sivananda, Ashtanga and most noticeably Iyengar and she fuses these styles in her teachings, creating a rich and informed approach to yoga. Read more on her Biography.

 

“Kath is an outstanding teacher who combines a wonderful understanding of technique and purpose with great empathy and compassion.”

 

“Kath is an authentic and dedicated teacher who teaches with infinite humility, integrity and compassion.”

 

“kind, humble and her students are her priority.”

“Kath brings about a different energy… her nurturing qualities and quiet energy have been so crucial to the course”

I can't get enough of Asana foundations. The knowledge that Kath and Gingi share with us is invaluable. It's pure gold.
SD
Gingi’s and Kath’s knowledge is exceptional and unparalleled, and they both complement each other so well. Gingi gives the group a sense of energy and drive. And Kath guides the group to a space that is nurturing and accepting. I am extremely fortunate and grateful to have the two as the main teachers.
AM
A big shout to Kath's amazing knowledge of the foundations of the different asanas and to Gingi's focus on how to get the body moving with the breath, their teachings really do complement each other in a great way!
CB
The mix of Kath and Gingi is amazing!! Couldn't imagine better teachers.
ES
The knowledge that Kath has in pranayama is unparalleled in my opinion. And I love Gingi's chanting, it's for the soul. These sessions ground me so beautifully.
CB
The course is beyond beautiful because of two very distinct and beautiful individuals holding the space.
SS
this course has truly been life-changing. It was a journey to the depth of my soul, opening my mind and my heart. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity of community, connection and personal transformation during such a tumultuous year. It was incredibly challenging but even more rewarding. It was a privilege to have been guided and nurtured by Kath, Gingi and Ella who have an incomparable wealth of knowledge and experience. Each teacher and student generously created a space where it felt safe to laugh, to cry, to grow, to learn, to teach, to love, to share, to connect, to move, to trust, to overcome, to believe, to let go, to express, to shine, to simply be. There are no words to express how eternally grateful I will be for this life-affirming experience and each individual I shared every step of this path with.
ZS
The course was a watershed for me. I have been practising yoga for over twenty years, and was very reluctant to pursue teaching. The course gave me confidence and strengthened my love of the practice. I feel so grateful to Kath Gingi and Ella for the rigour of the training and the spirit of collaboration which they brought to the course. I learnt so much, and felt that the course had really helped me in my personal development as a human being.
VS
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Course Structure

Modules

The 200-hour programme comprises of four modules, all four of which must be completed if you wish to gain a 200-hour certificate

 

If you join the course then we reserve a space for you on all four upcoming modules. There is, however, flexibility for the Anatomy and the Philosophy modules to be deferred to a later date as long as all four modules are completed within 1 to 2 years to gain certification. Modules can also be done as stand-alone courses with no 200-hour certification. Click on the links above to read more about each individual module.

Mentoring

The course includes monthly small group mentoring by the lead teachers who will hold session via Zoom throughout the duration of Foundation 2. The aim of these sessions is to support you through the course and provide a safe and more intimite forum for discussion and answering any specific questions which may come up for you.  

Blended Learning

We understand that many students work full time at the same time as studying, while others may have caring responsibilities and other commitments, so we offer a degree of flexibility with the format of our course. The programme has some components of blended learning in the form of livestream online sessions and some pre-recorded content for philosophy and anatomy which can, should you wish to, be completed at later dates.

Foundations 1 and 2 take place in the studio and we do require students to attend in person. We feel strongly that these practices are best learnt and experienced in person where we can fully explore the deeper energetics and nuances, including communicating through touch. In instances where you are absolutely unable to come into the studio, then we can  accommodate the option to attend via Zoom livestream, but this should be in exceptional circumstances.


Elective Modules

As a Shala 200-hour student you have the added benefit of being able to study any of our additional specialist modules to allow you to also teach areas of yoga that are of particular interest to you. These specialist interest courses range from pregnancy yoga to sequencing, aerial, yin yoga, yoga nidra and restorative yoga. Students completing Foundation 1, 2 and Philosophy 1 and Anatomy 1 who also do a specialist module would be qualified to teach these as specialist subjects (although there are some exceptions to this rule).  See other elective modules here.

Syllabus

This 200-hour course is a foundation yoga course which will introduce students to the vast subject of yoga. The Asana module will be influenced by ashtanga but will be broad in scope using the ashtanga sequence as a framework to explore postures and hands-on adjustments in more depth. We will explore an accessible beginners vinyasa sequence, in addition to the full ashtanga primary sequence and students will be equipped to go on to teach ashtanga or to explore vinyasa sequencing of their own. The approach will be non-dogmatic and will touch on the traditional and more contemporary approaches to yoga. You will learn some hands-on adjustments, detailed alignment and technical break down of the postures.


A typical day starts with pranayama, meditation and/or chanting and an asana practice. There are 205 contact hours in total in addition to about 50-75 non-contact hours required for assignments and coursework. For more on how the course breaks down please see the drop down menu on Syllabus Breakdown below.

What you can expect from the Course

By the end of the course you can expect to:

  • be able to confidently teach a dynamic led Level 1 and Level 2 class influenced by the ashtanga system 
  • be able to safely adjust many of the postures in the ashtanga primary series
  • have an understanding of anatomy & physiology and be able to translate this into your teachings
  • have a connection with the philosophical and historical roots of yoga and be able to transmit this into teaching
  • have a full grasp of the ethics of yoga and how this translates into being a teacher
  • be confident to lead simple pranayama, meditation and chanting within the class
  • have a deeper connection to yoga and be living yoga beyond the mat
Ashtanga Yoga Primary Series

The Shala School of Yoga Teacher Training Programme

The Shala teacher training has blown my mind wide open. The course is carefully structured, includes brilliant guest expert yogis and provides you the space to learn not just how to be a good yoga teacher - but to be your own kind of yoga teacher. It has been a great honour to be led by Gingi and Kath..
JA
The Shala has provided a beautifully balanced teacher training course and one of the most worthwhile experiences I've ever had. They have created an exceptional learning environment with wonderful teachers whose devotion to the art, science and discipline of Yoga is matched by their gift and expertise in teaching it.
LC
I can honestly say that The Shala TT course is one of the best things I've ever done. It's helped me so much personally and it's such a privilege to be learning from such exceptional teachers, at such an incredible studio. I firmly believe that it is one of the best in the country.
SD
Life changing...I knew that the Shala's Yoga TT was going to be good; just not how good. Gingi and Kath are such a perfect pair to lead the course - their compassion, coupled with their unbelievable depth of knowledge and experience, really makes the course. The quality of the whole team is unbelievable.
ES
The professionalism and attention to detail is exceptional, but also the team’s ability to create a space that is nourishing and accepting was equally important. Ella, Gingi and Kath gave us that.
AM
The best thing I have ever done in my life was to embark on this journey and the YTT @theshalalondon. All of the Shala team are just amazing. This beautiful space has a very special place in my heart.
AM
Every step has become a moment that I will cherish forever.
SS
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2022 Course Dates

  • The dates of our 200-hour modules are set out below and will not change unless there are exceptional circumstances. 
  • It is essential that you are available to attend all days of each module to fulfil your requirements and graduate from the training. 
  • If accepted on to the course you will be reserved a place for all four upcoming modules (Foundations 1, Foundations 2, Anatomy 1, Philosophy 1).
  • It is possible to sign up for the modules one by one and spread them out over a longer period of learning though this is a less economical way to do the course.
  • As long as all modules are successfully completed within a period of 2 years you can still attain a 200-hour accreditation. 
  • Your starting point should always be Foundations 1 which usually runs twice a year. 
  • When IN STUDIO, the course takes place at the Shala in West Norwood. 
  • The hours for Foundations 1 & 2 are usually 9am–6pm in the studio. In extenuating circumstances it will be possible to attend via Zoom but this is not encouraged. 
  • Here are the upcoming dates for Foundations 1 & 2. You can choose to do both modules with the same lead teacher(s) or you can opt for different lead teachers for each module.

Foundations 1 with Gingi Lee & Kath Roberts IN STUDIO

  • Saturday 8 January 2022
  • Sunday 9 January 2022 
  • Friday 11 February 2022
  • Saturday 12 February 2022
  • Sunday 13 February 2022
  • Friday 18 March 2022
  • Saturday 19 March 2022
  • Sunday 20 March 2022

Foundations 2 with Gingi Lee & Kath Roberts IN STUDIO

  • Saturday 30 April 2022
  • Sunday 1 May 2022
  • Monday 2 May 2022
  • Saturday 4 June 2022
  • Sunday 5 June 2022
  • Monday 6 June 2022
  • Saturday 2 July 2022
  • Sunday 3 July 2022
  • Monday 4 July 2022
  • Saturday 10 September 2022
  • Sunday 11 September 2022
  • Monday 12 September 2022

Foundations 1 with Melanie Cooper IN STUDIO or ONLINE

  • Friday 30 September 2022
  • Saturday 1 October 2022
  • Sunday 2 October 2022
  • Monday 3 October 2022
  • Friday 18 November 2022
  • Saturday 19 November 2022
  • Sunday 20 November2022
  • Monday 21 November 2022

Foundations 2 with Melanie Cooper IN STUDIO

    • Friday, 13 January 2023
    • Saturday, 14 January 2023
    • Sunday, 15 January 2023
    • Monday, 16 January 2023
    • Friday, 24 February 2023
    • Saturday, 25 February 2023
    • Sunday, 26 February 2023
    • Monday, 27 February 2023
    • Friday, 24 March 2023
    • Saturday, 25 March 2023
    • Sunday, 26 March 2023
    • Monday, 27 March 2023

For the next Anatomy and Philosophy Module dates please see respective module pages.

Or Click here for a pdf of whole schedule with all modules for our next course.

Fees

  • £2,985 course fees for the entire course comprising of all four modules taken consecutively - once your application has been approved you will be reserved a place on all four upcoming modules.
  • £3485 If you do not commit to upcoming dates and choose instead to book the modules individually on an ad hoc basis
  • £495 non-refundable deposit on being accepted on the 200-hour course, this guarantees you a place on each upcoming module. Places will not be held without a deposit
  • Further payments can be set up on a BACS transfer payment plan to be arranged. Full payment for each individual module needs to be paid in full before starting each module.
  • Fees include: the course manual and other material, training and assessment by a qualified Yoga Alliance Professional SYT: certificate if you successfully complete the course. The fee does not include travel, accommodation, food or insurance.

Discount on Shala classes

  • During the period you are enrolled on Foundations 1 and Foundations 2, you will be eligible for a 20% concession discount on 1, 5 and 10-class passes and workshops that take place.

Practicalities

Course Requirements & Recommendations

  • You should have a regular and committed asana practice (minimum of three years) with knowledge of the ashtanga primary series.
  • Recommendation from your main teacher.
  • We strongly advise you attend classes with the lead teachers before applying.
  • We expect you to have some understanding of yoga beyond the physical practice.
  • Successful applicants should be in good health and have stable personal circumstances

Application Process

  • If you would like to be considered for our next intake, please submit your full application form here.
  • Early applications are highly recommended as we are usually heavily oversubscribed.
  • Places will be allocated in stages so we will not be able to consider late applications if all places have been allocated.
  • On acceptance of your place we will send you bank details to pay the deposit to confirm your place on the course and you will be registered for the next dates for each of the four modules.
  • Please email if you have any specific questions or if you would like to book a call to discuss the course in more detail.
  • Please email if you have any specific learning requirements and we will do all that we can to support you.
APPLICATION FORM

Open Days

We invite you to join us for our Open Day which will take place IN STUDIO and will also be livestreamed. Alternatively you are welcome to book a call with one of the lead teachers or the course organiser. Just drop us an email with suggested times and a phone number.

OPEN DAY IN STUDIO SIGN UP
OPEN DAY VIRTUAL SIGN UP

Upcoming Classes