Consciousness Education explores perspectives on the source and nature of consciousness and their implications for being and knowing, teaching and learning. It invites educators and learners alike to examine their inner experience alongside outer knowledge — bridging science, spirituality, and creativity to foster a more compassionate and interconnected world. Our work draws on contemporary research in neuroscience, philosophy, quantum theory, and holistic education, as well as the wisdom of contemplative and Indigenous traditions.
HISTORY OF THE PROJECT
The Consciousness Education Project began in January 2024, initiated by Dr. Joan Walton (York St John University, UK), Dr. Laurel Waterman (University of Toronto, Canada), and Professor Marjorie Woollacott (University of Oregon, USA). Hosted initially through the Galileo Commission, three public webinars led to the creation of the Consciousness Educators' Network, which now includes more than 300 educators worldwide.
Over 2024-25, eight pilot projects were launched across schools, universities, and community learning environments, exploring themes such as: consciousness and wellbeing, embodied and heart-centred learning, environmental and intercultural awareness, and consciousness in leadership and creativity. The Network continues to expand as educators collaborate through monthly meetings, international presentations, and shared inquiry.
VISION
To reimagine education as a living exploration of consciousness awakening awareness, experiencing interconnectedness, and enhancing creativity in learners of all ages so that education becomes a path toward personal and planetary flourishing.
MISSION
The Consciousness Education Project brings together educators, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to explore how perspectives on consciousness can transform teaching, learning, and living. Through collaborative inquiry, research and practice, we seek to integrate scientific and spiritual understandings of consciousness into educational systems and everyday life.
PURPOSE
We believe that understanding consciousness as fundamental rather than a by-product of the brain opens a new frontier for education. Our purpose is to: Create and share transformative educational models grounded in holistic and participatory ways of knowing, Connect educators across cultures and disciplines who are experimenting with consciousness-informed approaches, Develop evidence, tools, and theory to establish Consciousness Education as a recognised field of inquiry and practice.
Join the Consciousness Educators' Network
Do you have a consciousness-based educational project? Would you like to learn how to integrate consciousness education into your classroom, university, or community? Do you have wisdom, research, or resources to share?
The Consciousness Educators' Network connects a global community of teachers, researchers, and practitioners exploring the inner and outer dimensions of learning. As a member, you'll: Connect with peers and pioneers through online gatherings and shared inquiry, Access resources, projects, and research from across the world, Be part of shaping a new educational paradigm that honours consciousness as fundamental to life. Join us in co-creating education that integrates meaning, love, and a sense of interconnectedness.
Consciousness Educators’ Network
Exploring postmaterialist perspectives on consciousness to transform education and deepen our understanding of what it means to be human.
A New Paradigm for Education
For too long, education has operated under the assumption that consciousness is merely a product of brain activity — and when neural activity ceases, consciousness disappears. But what if this foundational assumption is wrong?
An increasing body of evidence from neuroscience, quantum physics, and consciousness studies suggests that consciousness may be fundamental — not produced by the brain, but filtered through it. This understanding aligns with ancient wisdom traditions, and opens profound possibilities for how we approach teaching, learning, and human development.
“Our species will live or die on the back of the effectiveness of education. I think it is probably the most important human activity today. We will crash and burn or we will thrive depending on how we go about education.”
Why This Matters
The Consciousness Education Network brings together educators, researchers, and practitioners from around the world to:
- Challenge Assumptions
Question the materialist worldview that has dominated Western education and explore evidence-based alternatives. - Foster Connection
Cultivate a sense of interconnectedness with all living things and the wider cosmos. - Transform Learning
Integrate spiritual dimensions into education while maintaining academic rigour. - Build Community
Create a global network of educators exploring consciousness and its implications for how we live our lives across diverse cultures and contexts.