The coven meets fortnightly on Tuesday for training classes, which include various topics relevant to Wicca and Magic. We also have a structured outer-court system of individual learning and training, that incorporates monthly printed lessons (or 350+ page training manual) to help direct study, reading and practice. Needless to say the real learning that happens is experiential and spiritual and not solely intellectual, however as participation in coven rituals and ceremonies is not possible at the earlier stages it is beneficial to have a good grounding and understanding of the Craft - historically, theoretically and practically to prepare for future participation in a working group.

After a probationary period of approximately 3-5 months it may be possible to undergo a dedication ceremony into the outer-court of Wicca which allows the Neophyte to attend the Lesser seasonal Sabbats (4 times a year). Initiation into Wicca is not open to all and in normal cases a period of a 'year and a day' must have passed before this can be considered. Initiation is never offered but must be asked for by the applicant. Once initiated, the full moon 'Esbat' rites and Greater Sabbats may also be attended in addition to the Lesser Sabbats and further training and copying of the traditional Book of Shadows by hand may begin.

TRAINING SYLLABUS

The following curriculum of training is for use in the preparation of candidates for initiation into the mysteries of Wicca and magic as practiced within our tradition. Trainings usually start with a basic ritual blessing (candles, incense etc) and end with a guided pathworking or meditation.

Once an aspirant is found suitable for training they may attend fortnightly training sessions on subjects which are important for progression on the path. This may seem daunting to a seeker, but rest assured you will learn gradually with support over time.

RECOMMENDED READING:

1. What Witches Do, by Stewart Farrar
2. A Witch Alone: Thirteen Moons To Master Natural Magic, by Marion Green
3. Circle of Fire:The Symbolism & Practices of Wiccan Ritual By Sorita D'Este & David Rankine
4. The Elements of Ritual: Air, Fire, Water & Earth in the Wiccan Circle, by Deborah Lipp
   

DEDICATION CEREMONY:
To be performed on the evening of a Sabbat. On completion the Neophyte may attend any of the lesser Sabbats (solstices and equinoxes) and continue to study the following lessons in preparation for the First Degree initiation.

RECOMMENDED READING:

1. Eight Sabbats for Witches, & The Witches' Way J & S Farrar - combined into one volume as A Witches Bible.
2. Wicca: The Old Religion in the New Millennium, Vivienne Crowley.
3. Natural Magic or ABC of Witchcraft Past & Present, Doreen Valiente

Also one of the following Fictional works:

INITIATION CEREMONY:
To be performed on the Esbat ceremony of the Full Moon, or on the evening of a Sabbat providing that no Neophytes are present. Once the Neophyte has completed their 1^st degree initiation they are a full member of the Coven and a Priest or Priestess of the Craft. The initiate is now eligible to take part fully in coven activities and meetings except council meetings which are for Elders only. The participation includes continuing with the monthly trainings and Sabbats but also includes the Full Moon esbats which are restricted to initiates.

RECOMMENDED READING: