Level 1
This level is about developing your embodiment practice, developing relationship with yourself within the supportive structure of the training group. Through movement enquiries, you’ll discover a map of movement principles that support the great mystery of improvised dance to unfold.
Our next Level 1 training cohort begins in May 2027. You are very welcome to be in touch with expressions of interest, join a Q&A call on 7th December at midday, or apply here for the training.
You’ll begin a personal enquiry project, bringing alive the dance in your wider life. All trainees present these projects with time and space to be received with welcome from February – May 2028.
The potential of the Level 1 Personal Embodiment for Leadership enquiry and personal discovery cultivates the qualities of self-leadership – starting with our own sensations present – grounding, centering, finding balance and listening from the heart. We welcome creativity and movement to open non-linear pathways, understandings and collaborations. We widen the possibility to respond rather than react, to find greater perspective as we navigate life, to feel inspired by choices.
We follow a clear map that holds potential for each facilitator to individuate. The form holds space for improvisation and the mystery many of us have grown to love in the movement moment, the dance. Our map begins with somatic movement enquires (Points of View / POVs) that offer a doorway into the sensing body. We widen the exploration into key platforms (such as Pause, Orbit Orientation, Echo Inspiration) as we enter relational movement. Often we incorporate witnessing, or develop movement scores. The possibilities are vast for how this practice applies to a movement session, and for practitioners working with varying demographics.
Presenting this project in our own unique way to the group in the final module (Imbolc/ February onwards)
I want to share with you my deeply felt gratitude for the space you are holding Leela – the combination of structure and flow – and the lightness with which you offer this. It provides such an opportunity for me to travel ever inwards – and outwards. It really is such a blessing in my life and I cannot thank you enough.
I'm feeling very bowled over by the depth of love in the community – I've felt nothing like it before – so beautiful.
Starting May 2027, the training is structured as two consecutive weekdays each month (10am–3pm) during term time (excluding August and with a shorter online session for January), with peer reflections between to maintain connection and shared exploration within the group.
The monthly format opens the door for those travelling from further afield, while still supporting the “slow cook” approach that allows the work to root and mature over time.
We include outdoor practice in natural settings, from the coast to the moors.
This apprenticeship-style training is for those with a strong foundation in dance and movement who feel ready to deepen their practice and discovery. We’ll be exploring somatic practice, dance, and environmental site-specific practice, alongside a sustained enquiry into the art of improvisation.
The core apprenticeship is with Leela Fisk with strands woven throughout the training led by local colleagues.
To join Level 1, you need to have a total of 200 hours of in-person dance, movement & somatics experience; 20 of these hours need to be with Leela Fisk.
Participants need to have experience of Soul Motion outside of the training programme itself – we can explore this with you on an individual basis if you do not live in reach of Soul Motion classes.
We appreciate the wide diversity of movement and embodiment experiences the cohort will bring.
~ Reading list sent to you upon confirming your place.
~ Welcome video sent to you upon confirming your place – this contains starter enquiries to support you before attending the first module.
~ Peer meetings (fortnightly online class/ phone meetings) between training modules.
~ Development and delivery of personal project before the group in the final module (March 2027).
~ Reflective paper (3 sides of A4) on your learnings, or alternately a video edited to equal amount.
90% course attendance required for completion (allowing 10% for illness and emergencies).
The next Level 1 training begins in May 2027.
The training takes place over a series of two-day modules, on Mondays and Tuesdays, 10am–3pm.
2027
May 10th / 11th
June 14th / 15th
July 5th / 6th
September 13th / 14th
October 11th / 12th
November 8th / 9th
December 6th / 7th
2028
17th January (online 2hr session)
February 7th / 8th
March 13th / 14th
April 3rd / 4th
May 15th / 16th
Alongside these teaching days, there is a commitment to monthly peer meetings by voice or video call, supporting continuity, connection, practice and learning between modules.
Accommodation is not included in the Devon School of Soul Motion Training fee.
However, we have arranged and reserved accommodation options to support participants, particularly those travelling from further afield.
On-site affordable accommodation — The Bothy Hotel
15 basic, comfortable rooms are reserved on site and are a popular choice for those travelling from further afield.
Rooms are booked and paid for directly with Dartington Guest Services. Contact: +44 (0)1803 847000 guestservices@dartington.org
Please mention that you are booking a room reserved for the Leela Fisk — Devon School of Soul Motion Training.
On-site Dartington Hall Hotel
The Dartington Hall Hotel offers single and double rooms at a higher price point. Early booking is recommended – we have not reserved these in advance. More information: https://www.dartington.org/stay
Local Community Options
As the training progresses, participants may connect with the local dance community and arrange accommodation in spare rooms nearby. This can be a good option for later modules once you have settled into the training and area.
Food & Facilities
Several eateries are available on site, including The Green Table, Montréal Bagel Café, and The White Hart. Shared kitchen facilities are also available in the on-site most affordable accommodation.
50% alumni reduction for Soul Motion graduates from any school re-taking Level 1.
*Installment plans are available at an extra cost of £200.
How do I decide which rate to pay?
The Process:
Select your preferred payment plan on the application form.
Once we receive your application, we’ll send you a contract with full program details.
To secure your place, a £250 application processing fee is required.
Your chosen payment plan will then apply:
Those in need can apply for up to €500 support from ICMTA’s Diversity & Accessibility Scholarship (next round anticipated April 2027)
Discover the impact training at the Devon School of Soul Motion from our students.
Please complete this form to register your interest
Open to graduates of any Soul Motion school or certified dance practitioners of other forms
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info@devonschoolsoulmotion.org
Personal development, leadership and facilitation training for movement and dance
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