History

Find out more about the origins and the history of the School in the 7 minute video below.

History timeline

1937
School History
School Founded

Henry George School of Economics founded in London by Leon MacLaren. It was renamed the School of Economic Science in 1942.

1954
First Philosophy Courses
Philosophy Courses

First series of Philosophy courses offered, developed from the teachings of Ouspensky and Gurdjieff.

1957
Overseas Schools
First Overseas Schools

First overseas school established in Wellington, NZ. Since then associated schools have opened in North America, Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Germany, Holland, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Malta, S Africa, Spain, Trinidad and Venezuela.

1959
Meditation
Meditation

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi visits the UK, bringing the next stage of development, Meditation.

1965
Meetings
Meetings

First of many meetings of Leon MacLaren and Shri Shantananda Saraswati.

1976
Courses in Colchester
Courses in Colchester
Practical Philosophy Colchester 1976

Philosophy courses first offered in Colchester.

1994
Mr MacLaren passes away
New Senior Tutor

Mr MacLaren passes away. Mr Donald Lambie succeeds him as Senior Tutor.

1997
Shri Shantananda passes away
New Teacher

Shri Shantananda passes away. First meeting with Shri Vasudevananda Saraswati.

1997
School name change
School name changed

The name of the school is changed to the School of Philosophy and Economic Science.

How it works on our educational courses

A tutor presents material, and leads a discussion based on what arises. Being practical rather than academic, the emphasis is on personal knowledge. Students are encouraged neither to accept nor reject the ideas put forward, but to test them in practice for themselves, in the light of their own experience.

Frequently asked questions

The course is practical in the sense that it takes philosophical ideas and shows how they can be of direct use in our everyday lives. The intention is to stimulate enquiry and through this expand the way we look at the world and ourselves.

Click ‘Enrol Today’ on this page or emailing [email protected]

Once enrolled you will receive a confirmation email with your day of attendance and receive a receipt confirming your registration.

Yes, we have a local Colchester venue where you can attend the course face-to-face.

No, all you need is an open and enquiring mind. The course is intended for everyone, regardless of education, occupation, race, political or religious belief.

Face-to-face meetings will be held safely following the latest updates relating to all Health & Safety guidelines for your complete peace of mind.

Yes, we also offer the course as an online course via Zoom, ask for details.

First you need to enrol on a course. The in-person courses are available in Colchester and at many other local venues up and down the country.

If you have any questions simply email us at [email protected]

practical philosophy courses local Norwich

Introductory Courses

The courses have limited spaces and can get fully booked up in advance, so to save disappointment it is advisable to reserve your place on the next course well in advance.

Choose your preferred course below...