These introductory courses last four days (two weekends, 3 or 4 weeks apart) making up 24 training hours. We run occasional 5-day weekday courses.
The Foundation Course is a mixture of lectures and practical group sessions. Group sizes are kept to a maximum of 12. In the initial stages of training the emphasis is on safety and all attendees will be observed by an experienced demonstrator to ensure a safe needling technique.
Lecturing teams are made up of experienced medical acupuncturists. The performance of lecturers and group leaders is critically assessed to maintain a high standard. Teaching on the Foundation Course is based on scientific explanations of acupuncture as far as possible, but it also involves some traditional Chinese concepts.
The normal course fee includes tuition, a set of detailed course notes, 100 needles, lunches and daytime refreshments throughout the two weekends. Courses are non-residential but a list of local hotels and guesthouses can be supplied on request.
All Foundation and Intermediate courses are for External CPD by the Royal Colleges of Physicians.
Medical Students (4th and 5th year) can attend our Foundation Course. Student places are limited to one per course and there is a generous student discount.
Ladies
: There is no evidence that acupuncture is harmful in pregnancy. If you are or suspect you may be pregnant, however, you should bring this to the attention of the teaching staff as it may affect how much needling you receive in the practical sessions. 
