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Diversity & Inclusion Bursary

Yoga should be made accessible to everyone, though often it is not reaching the communities that need it the most. Our bursary exists to support people from groups historically marginalised in the yoga world, who may not otherwise have access to yoga teacher training.

50% of training fee covered
25+ bursaries available a year
6–8 weeks before course to apply
7 days to secure your place
Our aim is to support those who will use their learning to create positive change in their communities and widen access to yoga for others.

We know that teacher training is a significant investment — financially and energetically. This Shala bursary covers 50% of the training fee and is open to applicants for our 200-hour, CPD & 300 hour modules.

If you feel yoga teacher training is out of reach, and you meet the criteria below, we warmly encourage you to apply. We want to hear your story and hope to support you to take yoga in to new communities.

Is this bursary a good fit for you?

Yes

  • You are part of an under-represented group For example: people from ethnic minority backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people from lower socio-economic backgrounds, individuals who have experienced discrimination or systemic barriers, or people with disabilities that have limited access to yoga spaces.
  • You are experiencing genuine financial difficulty You would not be able to take part in the training without financial support.
  • You are committed to using your training to support others For example, bringing yoga to underserved communities, running accessible classes, or contributing to positive social change.
  • You meet the entry requirements You are ready for the course and meet the general application criteria for the module or CPD you're applying for.

Unlikely

  • You are able to pay without financial strain You can fund the training in full or via a payment plan without significant hardship.
  • You are not part of an under-represented group You don't identify with a community that has experienced marginalisation or under-representation in yoga.
  • You are seeking primarily personal development You are mainly looking for personal growth rather than community impact.
  • You are applying on a non-qualifying characteristic The basis of your application is not, in itself, a criterion for under-representation.

If you're unsure, you're welcome to apply — but we encourage you to self-assess honestly and respectfully before doing so. We have one bursary per course and want the bursary to reach those who genuinely need it most and who are most likely to contribute to positive social change.

How to apply

1
Complete the bursary application form
A short video is welcome if it feels more natural. Your personal statement should cover your background and lived experience, your financial situation, how you meet the criteria for under-representation, and how you intend to create positive impact.
2
Shortlisting
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for a brief informal Zoom chat.
3
Selection
If a final decision cannot be made from the application alone, the recipient may be selected at random from the shortlist. Or occasionally, the bursary discount may be split into 25% for two people.
4
Notification
Successful applicants are notified 3–6 weeks before the course begins. A place is held for 7 days — your deposit will be required to confirm it.
Apply →

When to apply

Key Dates

Recommended 6–8 weeks before the course start date
Late applications May be considered up to 4 weeks beforehand, depending on demand
200hr deadline Usually 30 June
Notification 3–6 weeks before course begins

Further information

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Your Place

A bursary place is held for 7 days. You will be required to pay the deposit to secure your bursary place.

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What's Covered

The bursary covers 50% of the training fee. You may receive one bursary only from the Shala School.

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Reapplying

If you decline a bursary place, you may not reapply unless there are exceptional circumstances.

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Cancellations

If you cancel after accepting a bursary, standard Terms & Conditions apply and your deposit is not refundable.

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After the Course

We ask recipients to complete a short feedback form and, if comfortable, share a few words to inspire future applicants. Anonymous contributions are warmly welcomed.

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View Courses

Ready to explore which training you'd like to apply for? Browse all our upcoming courses and CPDs.

View all courses →

Bursary stories

The bursary provided me with this wonderful opportunity at the Shala which is such an awesome place to learn and practice. Everybody I met there was super kind and inspiring.

A.F. · Yin Yoga with Melanie Cooper
More stories

Receiving the bursary for the training has hugely impacted me and my students and the area we are based in. Without this help from the Shala I would really struggle to be able to afford the trainings — teaching in a low income and diverse area means I keep fees very low and even free for those who need it.

Stephanie R.Creative Sequencing

I am a strong believer of encouraging diversity within the studio space. I believe in the value of having a diverse mix of teachers within the yoga space, and one of the reasons why I wanted to be a yoga teacher is to encourage this. I am now teaching Yin Yoga in a few studios and gyms in London.

Liz M.Yin Yoga with Norman Blair

I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for being selected as a recipient of a bursary for the Yoga Nidra course. Your belief in my potential and commitment to supporting my journey means more than words can convey.

Sheraleigh S.Yoga Nidra

One of my most favourite spaces to learn and make meaningful connections with other yoga teachers. It genuinely radiates warmth, intention, and high vibrations. Every part of the centre feels like a safe space for embracing growth and deep transformation.

S.P.Creative Sequencing 2025

The 30hr Yin Yoga teacher training with Melanie Cooper provided the fire I needed to get going with my teaching. Generosity is definitely a word I would associate with my time on this course — the space, fellow students, staff and the generosity of knowledge being shared were all fantastic.

Lisa Y.Yin Yoga with Melanie Cooper

My 3 days with Anne and the other course attendees was wonderful. Anne teaches from the heart and she is so inspirational. There's so much more to this course than the practicals — learning about holding space, ceremonies, and not being afraid to show our true personalities.

Pam S.Sacred Sound & Ceremony with Anne Malone

Apply for a Bursary

Browse our upcoming courses, then submit your application. We'd love to support your journey into teaching.

Apply → View All Courses