A Choice of Two Courses

We run two courses: the original ISC and Ignatian Enrichment (IE). The latter is for experienced spiritual directors whose initial training may have been in other traditions. 

On both courses participants learn experientially about Ignatian spirituality, develop and deepen their practice of spiritual direction, and study the theory  and practice of Ignatius’s Spiritual Exercises. Both courses equip participants to accompany others through the Exercises.

Our aim to help students to adapt the Spiritual Exercises to the many needs of people in today’s world, continuing to work within the spirit of the Exercises to the greater glory of God.

Please scroll down for information on both of our courses, and feel free to explore this site for more information on course content, applications, and other practicalities.

What is distinctive about Ignatian Spiritual Direction?

ISC : Original Three-Year Course

The three-Year Ignatian Spirituality Course offers Ignatian Formation and Training in Spiritual Direction. It introduces you to the richness of the spirituality of Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556) who was a pioneer in proposing ways for the individual to attain spiritual freedom. It makes an ideal foundation for those wishing to explore Ignatian spirituality in everyday life or for their own personal or professional spiritual practice.

ISC is an ecumenical Christian course and is open to people of goodwill from all traditions.

Whatever your starting-point, the course supports you as you seek to grow in intimacy with God and equips you to accompany others as they do the same. The course is experiential, combining teaching-input with personal reflection and group discussion. Course participants learn how to offer Ignatian spiritual direction, with its distinctive emphasis on discernment, and how to give Ignatius’s Spiritual Exercises to others.

We support you in discerning where God is leading you in your unique ministry, recognising that for some participants, this may be to work in forms of spiritual direction and giving retreats, while others may be led along other avenues. 

LAST FEW PLACES AVAILABLE FOR 29 SEPTEMBER START

Ignatian Spirituality Course overview

The three-year course is available in two iterations: in-person at the London Jesuit Centre, London, and online via Zoom. Each iteration has its own tutors and unique cohort. The ISC is led by an experienced staff of laypeople and clergy. It runs for one day a week (11:00 – 16:00 UK time) from September to July over three years, with Year 1 on Tuesdays, Year 2 on Wednesdays, and Year 3 on Thursdays. 

The in-person course is held at the London Jesuit Centre, 114 Mount Street, London W1K 3AH.

The online course is held on Zoom and welcomes participants from around the UK, Europe and beyond. A steady Internet connection is a prerequisite to join this course, and students are encouraged to join on a laptop camera where possible.

Ignatian Spirituality Course fees

We hope that no one is prevented from following the course through lack of money. Generous financial assistance for UK students may be available via the Society for Retreat Conductors (SRC). If you wish to be considered for this, please apply early and approach the SRC when you are offered a place. We regret that we are currently unable to advise on grants for international students.

Please email the Course Administrator for further details or to make an application. 

IE One-Year Course : For Experienced SDs

We also offer the very popular one-year Zoom course, Ignatian Enrichment or “IE”, for experienced spiritual directors. It is designed to form experienced spiritual directors in giving the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola. The Ignatian Enrichment Course is exclusively online, and we welcome participants from around the UK, Europe and beyond. The course runs annually from September to July, on Thursdays, 11:00 to 16:00 UK time. For 2026-2027 are £2000, payable in two instalments in the autumn and spring.

This specialised course offers a comprehensive exploration of the theory and practical application of the Spiritual Exercises. Participants will not only deepen their understanding of the text but also enhance their skills in spiritual direction, with the opportunity to practise St Ignatius’ Rules for Discernment of Spirits. The emphasis is on fostering competence and reflective practice essential for guiding others through the Spiritual Exercises in their daily lives (also known as the 19th Annotation).

Previous graduates of the 3-year Ignatian Spirituality Course find the Enrichment Course an excellent way of refreshing their proficiency in giving the Exercises. 

Join us on this enriching journey as we delve into the transformative practice of spiritual direction grounded in the wisdom of St Ignatius of Loyola.

Hear From Our Students

I enrolled in the courses to improve my skills in Spiritual Accompaniment, which surely has happened. But I find the application of my improved skills, my “mind and strength” if you will, is anchored in the transformation wrought in my “heart and soul” …. The instructors operate from the same paradigm. Their exceptional qualifications – in teaching, in the Spiritual Exercises, and in a range of associated disciplines – is equalled only by their total commitment to the students. The result is an educational experience with deeper, more solid roots than any other I have encountered.

Chuck W, Teaching Assistant for Year 1 Ignatian Spirituality Course

Whatever your past experience of faith or church, present circumstances or the questions you have about your future, if you are wondering about your life in and with God, I recommend this course. Packed with learning, depth, challenges, and encouragement. From toddlers needing to be spoon-fed we are now walking humbly but confidently through the world of spiritual direction. 

Mitzi J

Contact a tutor

For further information about course content or to discuss a prospective application, please feel free to contact one of our tutors.