Foundation Study Program
Take your practice deeper
The Foundation Program offers a structured approach to learning Buddhist meditation through the study of a particular book. Through in-depth study and practise, it helps us close the gap between the inspiring teachings we hear at the Centre and practising them in our daily life. We learn how to integrate all the meditation practises and wisdom advice from Buddha into our normal daily life. In this way we gradually find a deep inner peace and happiness in our lives.
By studying on this program we shall gain great confidence in meditation โ from simple Buddhist techniques for developing inner peace, to the profound insights which lead to lasting wisdom and joy.
At Kadampa Meditation Centre Wellington in Island Bay we have two separate Foundation Programmes: one runs on Wednesday evenings and the other on Sunday afternoons.

Wednesday Foundation Program
- Date: Wednesdays
- Time: 6:45-9:00pm
- Teacher: Kelsang Shechog
Join us on the Wednesday Foundation Program as we study part one of Geshe Kelsang Gyatsoโs extraordinary text How to Understand the Mind. This book offers us deep insight into our mind, and shows how an understanding of its nature and functions can be used practically in everyday experience to improve our lives. Part one is a practical guide to developing and maintaining a light, positive mind. By studying this text we learn how to recognise and abandon states of mind that harm us, and to replace them with peaceful and beneficial ones.
To find out more or to register for a trial please contact us at education@meditateinwellington.org

Sunday Foundation Program
- Date: Sundays
- Time: 4:00-6:30pm
- Teacher: Kelsang Shechog
At present we are studying the book Meaningful to Behold, a highly acclaimed commentary to the famous spiritual poem Guide to the Bodhisattvaโs Way of Life that was written by the 8th century Buddhist Master Shantideva. This poem reveals with poetic beauty and deep spiritual insight how to enter, make progress on, and complete the Buddhist path to enlightenment. By studying Meaningful to Behold we learn how to understand the poem correctly and how to practise the instructions contained in it in our own daily life, thereby transforming it into the life of a Bodhisattva.
To find out more or to register for a trial please contact us at education@meditateinwellington.org
Questions?
foundation program FAQs
The Foundation Program fee is $85 per month. By joining the Foundation Program, you will enjoy the benefits of Centre membership. This entitles you to free access to all classes at the Centre and discounts on certain events.
Joining FP involves studying an entire book or section and trying to attend all classes, one of which is an end-of-term exam. Each class consists of prayers, guided meditation, teaching and discussion. FP is open to everyone and you can join at any point in the year.ย
To find out more or to register for a trial please contact us at education@meditateinwellington.orgย
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