This year we were honoured to host the renowned specialist in archetypal psychology, Laurence Hillman, who presented a course entitled Embodying Your Astrology: An Archetypal Approach. Participants explored archetypes in a creative and playful way through physical exercises, and concluded the weekend with clear and practical guidance on how to activate archetypes in their lives.

In this track, participants explored living in archetypal synchronicity, aligning with the psyche’s natural rhythms and the universe. The Archetypes at Work system gave new perspectives for professionals, while the values of the emerging Age of Aquarius were considered. Drawing on the work of C.G. Jung and Jeffrey Young, participants reflected on anima, animus, and the integration of psychodynamic, behavioural, and humanistic psychology. Narcissism was examined as a path of transformation, and finally, the symbolism of alchemy was linked with astrology, revealing its depth as a science of the soul.

This track explored how relationships with certain individuals — family, partners, strangers, or even those who disappointed us — could profoundly shape our lives. Participants studied astrological factors such as fixed stars, synastry challenges, the 12th house, the Ascendant, and Mercury, while also reflecting on inspiration from mentors, gurus, and mystical ties with daimons or deities. The sessions offered deep insights into the complexities of human connection, encouraging participants to approach life’s relationships with creativity and wisdom.

This track examined traditional astrological techniques with roots in medieval and earlier periods, showing how they had been adapted for modern, client-centred practice. Participants studied accidental dignities, firdaria, directions, profections, primary directions, and solar returns, applying them to client work and their own charts. Other themes included aspect patterns, unaspected planets, the role of the Sun, and electional astrology for healing and practical use. The track concluded with an exploration of the upcoming Saturn/Neptune conjunction and its impact on natal Mars.

A well-established feature of the Summer School programme is the Interpretation Modules, offering an engaging, immersive, and highly rewarding way to earn valuable Course Credits toward the Faculty’s prestigious Diploma. This year, Module 3 – Natal Chart Interpretation: Putting the Pieces Together – was led by Toby Aldren and Itziar Azkona, while Module 9 – Advanced Chart Interpretation and Astro-Consultancy – was delivered by Stevi Gaydonand Deborah Morgan. Students in Module 9 had the exciting opportunity to practice live client readings, working directly with delegates from the Astrology in Action tracks, gaining practical experience and confidence in their interpretive skills.

Original, creative and captivating evening talks were given from Saturday to Wednesday by Frances Clynes, Tereza Bártová, Dragana Van de moortel – Ilić, Lindsay Gladstone, and Itziar Azkona. We were fascinated by the horoscope of Dracula and learned how Death never dies,  we visited Prague discovering its astrological background, observed angels from the Christian Orthodox iconography from another angle, were blown by the winter wind and were initiated in the idea that the Age of the Aquarius actually do not exist. 

The Gala Dinner has always been a standout event of the Summer School, and this year continued the tradition. The evening opened with a stirring organ recital in the stunning Chapel, performed by Mark Brafield. This was followed by an exquisite three-course dinner, elegantly presented by the skilled catering team, creating a truly celebratory atmosphere. Our cherished guest tutor, Lindsay Gladstone, delivered an inspiring after-dinner talk, and many delegates joined in the lively disco afterwards, bringing the evening to a joyful conclusion.