The updated Teacher Development Service Seminar (TDSS) is now being offered in a hybrid format, with both in-person and online participation. At this time, the course is available only in English.

Please note the following important details about access and participation:

•  The online course content will be made available only to individuals who are enrolled in the full course—whether attending in person or online

• Once enrolled, participants will have ongoing access to these materials for personal study and review.

• Certificates of Completion for the TDSS will be given to all individuals who successfully complete the course, both online and in person modules

We are currently experimenting with various modes of delivery for the TDSS to be made available in the future. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we offer the most comprehensive experience currently possible.

Online Facilitators: Venerable Lozang Yönten and Namdrol Adams
In-person Facilitators: Andy Wistreich & Annelies van der Heijden

The 2026 FPMT Teacher Development Service Seminar (TDSS) marks the next step in the evolution of training and support for Dharma teachers in the FPMT. Building on nearly a decade of collaborative effort within our community, this seminar embodies the insights, aspirations, and lived experiences of senior teachers, students, and the wider FPMT community around the world.

The foundations of this seminar were established in 2017, when experienced Dharma teachers and senior students came together to shape a shared vision for teacher development. Their work culminated in the first TDSS, piloted in various regions and contexts. It laid the groundwork for this iteration, now informed by refined pedagogy, flexible formats, and emerging best practices.

The 2025 & 2026 TDSS have been shaped by fresh feedback and evolving priorities identified at the April 2025 CPMT meeting, where FPMT teachers emphasized the need to better support emerging teachers, integrate contemporary pedagogy, and balance lineage fidelity with accessibility. This TDSS draws on the expertise and best practices developed across the international FPMT community.

In response to evolving needs, this TDSS has been designed as a hybrid-learning program combining online and in-person participation, to increase flexibility and accessibility. With a mix of asynchronous and in-person modules, it aims to support diverse learners, reduce travel demands, and pilot new pedagogical approaches. This shift reflects a broader commitment to offering high-quality Dharma education beyond traditional formats, while preserving the integrity of the teachings and the value of in-person experience.

This training is grounded in the heart advice of Lama Zopa Rinpoche, Founder of FPMT, Khen Rinpoche Geshe Chonyi, Abbot of Kopan Monastery and member of the FPMT International Board, and Yangsi Rinpoche, Founder of Maitripa College. Their shared vision guides the development of compassionate, ethical, and skillful Dharma teachers prepared to meet the world with wisdom.

We welcome you and deeply appreciate your aspiration to teach and serve. May this seminar support your personal growth, confidence, and joyful commitment to the Dharma.

The 2026 FPMT Teacher Development Service Seminar will contain:

1. Pre-Seminar Online Modules – Takes about 15 hours. To be completed by 20 September : Self-paced foundational teachings, reflections, and preparatory materials to ground your learning ahead of the live seminar. 
2. Live Seminar - In-person at Kalachakra Retreat Center, 24-26 September 2026: An immersive, community-based learning experience featuring teachings, discussions, hands-on practicum sessions, and reflective practice. 
3. Post-Seminar Module - To be completed by 16 October: Integrative follow-up to support reflection & embodied learning, deepen understanding and help translate insights into your teaching practice.