Upcoming Online Seminars
GENERAL NOTES
Online Seminars are open to everyone. Many topics directly support the material of the Faculty course modules, making them ideal for Faculty students. However, no previous affiliation with the Faculty is required in order to enrol.
Each seminar costs £35. You do not need to attend in real time. Your enrolment gives you access to a recording for 30 days – perfect for review or if you were unable to attend when the seminar was broadcast!
Select seminars for your level by this colour code:
Foundation Level
Intermediate Level
Advanced Level
All Levels
The Faculty uses Zoom as an online platform. If this is your first time enrolling, please read Joining an Online Seminar Using Zoom.
Prior to booking, see the
Conditions of Enrolment.
Questions? Please email
onlineseminars@astrology.org.uk .
19 October 2019
3.00–4.30pm BST
An Introduction to Medical Astrology
with guest Jane Ridder-Patrick
All Levels
Modern medical astrology helps us identify the underlying astrological and psychological patterns that link the sufferer and their symptoms. This can then show us why this particular person has this particular ailment at this particular time, and go on to provide a blueprint, unique for that individual, for greater health and wholeness.
This seminar will guide the student in a step by step fashion through the techniques and investigative process of psychological medical astrology and with the help of case studies will show how breathtakingly precise the mirroring of symptoms and psychology and astrology can often be.
Jane Ridder-Patrick PhD has trained as a pharmacist, naturopath, herbalist and psychotherapist. Active as a consultant astrologer for almost 40 years, her practice is in Edinburgh, where she also teaches astrology. She has a PhD from Edinburgh University for which she researched the history of 16thand 17thcentury Scottish astrology. Jane’s best-known publication is A Handbook of Medical Astrologyand her innovative approach for investigating the mind-body connection has received much acclaim. In 2018 Jane was the recipient of the Charles Harvey Award for Exceptional Service to Astrology for her work in this field.
26 October 2019
3.00–4.30pm BST
The MC–IC Axis
with Melanie Reinhart
Foundation Level
The MC/IC axis is like the ‘spine’ of the horoscope, representing our origins (IC) and aspirations (MC), and opening the doors to the 4th and 10th houses and our life-experience of these realms. Like all the twelve houses, these two offer a lamination of multiple associated meanings and will be explored accordingly, taking into account both the literal and symbolic levels. We will also consider the elements, mode and planetary rulers, plus any planets which aspect this axis, thus discovering ‘obstacles’ and ‘helpers’ on the road of the MC/IC axis.
2 November 2019
3.00–4.30pm GMT
The Secret Opening: Astrology and Myth
with Carole Taylor
All Levels
Joseph Campbell saw myth as ‘the secret opening through which the inexhaustible energies of the cosmos pour into human cultural manifestation’. Myth is thus universal and archetypal, yet it is also specific to time and place, a means by which the rituals, beliefs, values and emotional life of a culture can be preserved and passed on through the generations. Ancient oral traditions of storytelling are the wellspring of myth, before the gods gave to humankind the gift of writing.
In James Hillman’s view, mythology also represents ‘a psychology of antiquity’, a container for psychic life. This psychology of antiquity is fundamental to astrology, since astrology was devised to give voice to the edicts of the gods written across the ancient skies of Babylon. The myths contained within a birth chart are thus a mirror through which we see reflected the hidden patterns of life.
We will explore the nature of myth, its form and function. We will look at some of the key narratives such as creation myths, myths of heroes, and fertility myths. Along the way, through examples from my own client work and from case studies, we will see the power of myth alive and vital in the birth chart.
16 November 2019
3.00–4.30pm GMT
The Symbolic Landscape of the Zodiacal Signs
with guest Wade Caves
All Levels
Historically, special importance in chart delineation was placed on the houses. In modern times, we have shifted toward an emphasis on the zodiacal signs, though ironically may have stepped away from embracing their rightful scope. Through signs, we not only have behavioural characteristics, but also compass directions (did you know that all fire signs point east? and that Sagittarius points to the southeast, Leo to the northeast?), parts of the body (Gemini generally rules the arms, but did you know that with Mercury here it can also indicate the head?), and natural environments (did you know that Leo indicates lush parks whereas Capricorn points to barren fields?). The signs also boast traditional classifications like fruitful, barren, mute and violent – how did these assignations come about, and how might we use them today? Our understanding of the signs is further refined by the planets which rule them, both by sign and exaltation. We can improve our interpretations by layering these in with house placements. Together let's explore a deeper view into the signs, one which seeks to extract every ounce of symbolism available to us.
23 November 2019
3.00–4.30pm GMT
The Path of Destiny: The Nodes of the Moon
with Sue Farebrother
Foundation Level
A well-known astrologer once said that if he had only three minutes to say something meaningful about a chart, he would look at the Nodes first, as they carry an important life message. The Moon’s Nodes are an axis of the North and South crossing points in space of the two orbits of the luminaries, the Sun and Moon, as seen from here on Earth. They are sometimes known as the Path of Destiny.
Sue will explain the meaning of the North and the South Nodes on the birth chart in the context of the rest of the chart, with chart examples.
30 November 2019
3.00–4.30pm GMT
The Secret Worlds of the 8th and 12th Houses
with Deborah Morgan
Foundation Level
These two houses share a reputation for mystery, subtlety and seclusion that is missing from other, perhaps more prominent life areas within a natal chart. For this reason they can seem hard to interpret, as if their language is one of sensation and intuition rather than of words. Archetypally, both houses are linked to the element of water whether in a cycle of profound change and intensity in the case of the 8th house, or through dreams and mythology in the realm of the 12th house.
We will explore their potential for illuminating facets of the self and our deepest connection to others both individually and collectively and expand our interpretative approach to these fascinating and beguiling houses via case studies.
This online seminar is suitable for beginners and those keen to develop their understanding of houses further.
7 December 2019
3.00–4.30pm GMT
Using the Graphic Ephemeris
with Melanie Reinhart
All Levels
For considering transits, the Graphic Ephemeris is an ingenious and compact method of displaying an enormous amount of information on one single page. It is fun to work with and, used routinely by many astrologers. We look at how it is constructed, plus how to interpret and use the information it offers for personal chart work and as a research tool. Additionally, a few people will be offered the opportunity to have their own transits reviewed ‘live’ and interactively online, during the class. (To be chosen by an oracular method – please reply to the confirmation email stating whether you’d like to be included, and also send your full birth data.)
14 December 2019
3.00–4.30pm GMT
The Tree of Life
with guest Clare Martin
Annual FAS Christmas Seminar
The Tree of Life is one of the most ancient and universal symbols for the still centre of the world, the universal axis of rotation around which everything turns, and of the sacred connection between the heavens, the earth and the underworld. It represents the life force itself and the eternal recurrence of the annual cycles of death and rebirth.
The Sun crosses the terrestrial and celestial poles at the winter and summer solstices, the points of maximum darkness and maximum light.
As we approach the darkest time of the year, we will explore some of the many meanings of the MC/IC axis in the astrological chart. As the axis of incarnation, the gateway to our earthly existence, the Axis Mundi describes the parental and social environment into which we are born. But the MC/IC meridian also symbolises the incarnation of spirit and soul, the celestial chakra system, revealing deeper levels of connection to the universal life force.
11 January 2020
3.00–4.30pm GMT
Retrograde Planets
with Carole Taylor
Foundation Level
Ptolemy said that retrograde planets lack power, a reflection of the ancient idea that whatever moves contrary to normal motion in the sky is moving against the outer world’s usual laws of time and order. Yet, when a planet is retrograde, it is closest to the Earth in its orbit, a more palpable presence – and retrograde planets show themselves as a powerful force, albeit one which may be less conscious and harder to access because its path is inwards and down, towards the interior. Literally and symbolically, they are not straightforward; they look backwards into memory and they view the world from non-ordinary perspectives.
In this seminar, we will interpret what it means to have a planet retrograde in the natal chart, including the cycles of Mercury and Venus as morning and evening stars and the mythic journey to the underworld associated with them.
16 January 2020 (Thursday)
7.00–8.30pm GMT
Major and Minor Aspects:
How to Interpret Them Without Going Crazy
with Glòria Roca
Foundation Level
Differentiating between aspects when we interpret them can be tricky and difficult, and this is even more so when we include the minor ones. Some minor aspects seem to have an energy that is similar to some major ones or to some other minor ones too! We will try to shed light onto this intricate area of the interpretation work and give some clues to the interpretation of the aspects, both major and minor ones.
18 January 2020
3.00–4.30pm GMT
Speaking to the Times
with Dragana Van de moortel-Ilić
Annual FAS Mundane Astrology Seminar
Observing the great cycles of slow-moving planets, we can discover many patterns which happen on both the collective and individual levels. In 2020, two new cycles created by planetary pairs will begin. In January 2020, Saturn will make a conjunction with Pluto in Capricorn and, in December 2020, Jupiter will make a conjunction with Saturn at 2° Aquarius. The end of 2020 also brings the beginning of a period of more air: since 2011 Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto and Chiron were not in air signs. Without air, on both the mundane and personal levels, we possibly lost a great deal of diplomacy, kindness, an easy-going attitude and, a clear vision of the future. During this seminar we will discuss the current mundane affairs which might be linked with these mundane aspects and planetary positions. The participants will be asked to share own individual experiences.
8 February 2020
3.00–4.30pm GMT
Relationship Potential in the Chart
with Toby Aldren
Foundation Level
As Cupid is poised to do his work, just how can we make sure he is aiming at the right target? Let’s explore what the natal chart has to say about attraction and learn something about the kind of people we tend to draw into our life. The purpose of this seminar is not to see if two specific people are a perfect match for each other, but rather to shift the focus inward to uncover the criteria we tend to set for our personal and professional relationships.
22 February 2020
3.00–4.30pm GMT
The Progressed Moon
with Carole Taylor
Intermediate Level
Progressions reflect the changing shape of our inner world, and perhaps none more powerfully than the movements of the progressed Moon. We encounter each successive dimension of life as it moves through the houses, experiencing and absorbing through soul and body, and weaving it into memory. In addition, we have the progressed Moon’s cycle in relation to its own place, a cycle of emotional development – and also its cycle in relation to the Sun, in which the world of everyday (lunar) experience becomes incorporated as part of the great alchemical work of the Sun. Along the way, the progressed Moon touches each natal chart factor in turn, bringing a soulful awareness to each part of our personality.
The progressed Moon is where we feed at any given time, or where we seek a sense of belonging or connection, where what is unfamiliar becomes familiar and ingrained. This seminar will explore the meaning of the progressed Moon – through its aspects to other chart factors, its progress through the houses, and its cycles in relation to itself and to the Sun.
14 March 2020
3.00–4.30pm GMT
Using House Rulerships
with Stevi Gaydon
Foundation Level
The sign on a house cusp reveals the area of life in which the principle of that sign is likely to be manifested and learned. The planetary ruler of the sign also brings the energy from the house it rules to the house in which it is placed and vice versa. So, the houses in the birth chart are linked together in different ways.
The ruler of a house indicates how we may express ourselves in the area of life associated with the house. It also suggests how the matters of that house are likely to be manifested and so relates to experiences. This idea can be confusing to students initially but once it is understood, house rulership exploration brings added depth and life to interpretations.
In this seminar we will look at the mechanics of the technique and, through case study examples, discover the insights that can be gained from their use.
21 March 2020
3.00–4.30pm GMT
A Place for the Soul:
Working with Astro-Cartography Maps
with Carole Taylor
Advanced Level
An astro-cartography (ACG) map shows where in the world each of our planets would have occupied one of the four angles, had we been born in that place. It is part of the suite of ‘astro-geography’ techniques which together acknowledge the dynamic influence of geography on our development as individuals. We all have places we long to visit and some we are fearful of; others draw us in, as if catching us in the web of fate – our psychology is linked inextricably to the effects of place: to the people, culture and patterns of life we find in different parts of the world.
The lines on an ACG map speak of a potential in the natal chart which opens to us when we engage with the energy of another location. This seminar explores the technique of astro-cartography and the related technique of chart relocation.
18 April 2020
3.00–4.30pm BST
Transits to Aspect Patterns:
These Special Periods in Your Life
with Glòria Roca
Intermediate Level
When a transit occurs it does not only produce some activity in relation to one particular planet or area in the chart. Unless the natal planet transited is unaspected, it is related to other parts of the chart through the aspects it makes to other planets. The latter will be indirectly activated by the transit, and this is particularly strong when aspect patterns are concerned, making the transits to aspect patterns turn into something special and of a longer effect.
25 April 2020
3.00–4.30pm BST
Unaspected Planets
with Stevi Gaydon
Foundation Level
At the Faculty we define Unaspected Planets as those that make no aspects to other planets or, have only one minor aspect.
Unaspected planets, unmodified by connection to other planets are not integrated into the chart. The individual with an unaspected planet is often unaware of how they express this planet although, paradoxically, it may be an area of compulsion, fascination and yearning for them. The placement can be indicative of innate talent and when the individual recognises this energy and understands how to use it, their potential can be developed and realised.
In this seminar we examine, via example charts, the possible manifestation of unaspected planets in people’s lives. We will also consider how we can support our clients in their understanding and appreciation of their natural ability in this area.
2 May 2020
3.00–4.30pm BST
Developing Chart Interpretation Skills
with Carole Taylor
Foundation Level
We need a variety of skills to interpret a chart. We must learn to read each symbol and placement, and then appreciate how these components might interweave into potential themes. In doing so, we gain an idea of what moves and motivates this particular individual. Then we need to develop the skill of conveying this in a way which appreciates the flesh-and-blood person behind the archetypal pattern. We need to develop breadth, depth, and sensitivity.
In this seminar, we will explore one chart, working first to find the key chart factors and potential themes. We will then take a few of the most important features of the chart and explore these more fully, developing a richer understanding and expression for our work. In the process, we will consider very closely matters of style and sensitivity. We may have many wonderful ideas about a chart, and many of them may even turn out to be true! Yet not all of our ideas will be suitable to convey to the person and we must learn to tread with care and discernment.
16 May 2020
3.00–4.30pm BST
Rectification
with Deborah Morgan
Advanced Level
We all know that the time of birth is a vital piece of information when constructing a birth chart. Together with date and place, the moment of birth grounds us in the physical world of planet, society and family and the realm of our personal experience. But what if this moment is not known?
Many clients don’t know their birth time and rectification is an extremely useful skill for the consultant astrologer which enables this issue to be addressed effectively. Even if a birth time is provided, its accuracy often cannot be guaranteed and can be problematic. In short, which time is the ‘right’ time?
This online seminar will provide a clear methodology for rectifying a chart that provides an effective birth time for astrological purposes and introduce the philosophical background to this intriguing technique.
It is recommended that attendees are familiar with natal chart work and forecasting methods in some depth in order to benefit fully from the online seminar.
23 May 2020
3.00–4.30pm BST
Solar Arc Directions
with Carole Taylor
Intermediate Level
Solar arcs employ the movement of the progressed Sun, applying this to every planet, angle and factor in the chart. With everything moving at the same pace, preserving the original pattern of the birth chart, the result is like the slow movement of a clock or dial, a stately dance in perfect synchrony with the progress of the shining Sun. Solar arcs thus offer a particular quality of experience – unlike the subtle inner flow of secondary progressions, they often coincide with outer events and key moments of progress, growth or change, giving us a sense of something ‘fated’ but which ultimately serves our solar purpose. We will explore this technique and how to use it alongside other forecasting tools.
6 June 2020
3.00–4.30pm BST
The Consultation Chart:
Illuminating the Importance of the Moment in Client Work
with Deborah Morgan
Advanced Level
A chart drawn up for the start of a consultation can indicate the prevailing astrological weather and its symbolism can interweave with the dialogue between astrologer and client, shedding light on topics likely to arise and the overall experience of the consultation in question. It can contrast issues that may be a preoccupation on the day with the questions asked by the client in advance and provide valuable insights, especially when compared with the natal charts of the astrologer and client, indicating their individual and shared experience of the consulting room.
The popularity of online consultations raises interesting questions about the technicalities of consultation charts, especially when participants are in different time zones and continents. The online seminar will consider these and their implications for virtual interactions, in addition to the supportive role that consultation charts can play in such situations.
This online seminar is suitable for attendees wishing to begin seeing clients or seeking to expand their practice.
27 June 2020
3.00–4.30pm BST
Eclipses: Myth, Meaning and Interpretation
with Cat Cox
Intermediate Level
Solar and lunar eclipses can evoke a powerful sense of awe, as the new or full moon aligns with the mysterious nodal axis and celestial light meets shadow. Viewed as gateways into the hidden territory of the inner world with its potency for deep seeding, catalytic change and transformative action we can find ourselves experiencing powerful shifts at these times. In this seminar we will explore the mythology, symbolism and meaning of these powerful celestial events which resonate deeply within the imagination and we will look at their patterns, consider technicalities for use and explore their interpretation in natal forecasting.