Why Train at MATTS: A Centre of Excellence for the Alexander Technique

Choosing an Alexander Technique Course: Why a Training Centre Matters

A first class professional training at an internationally recognised centre of excellence

MATTS has been a leading centre for the Alexander Technique for 25 years and has graduated 43 teachers (March 2026). We offer a STAT approved training course for teachers with a lead team with many years of experience in the training of teachers, an exceptionally high student:teacher ratio (an average of better than 2:1 over the past five years) and with an exceptionally large number of participating teachers. Students can expect to work with about 10 different teachers during a typical week of training, and on most training days there are two teachers with more than 35 years' experience. In addition, we regularly host notable teachers from elsewhere in the UK and abroad.

We offer intensive individual attention to the needs and development of each student and provide continuing outstanding support for our graduates, most of whom choose to take up teaching careers.

MATTS is an important centre, regionally, nationally and internationally. It is currently the largest training course in the UK and is one of the largest in Europe.

Certification by STAT, CHNC, PSA and nearly all international equivalents

MATTS graduates are certificated by The Society of Teachers of the Alexander Technique (STAT) and are eligible to join the Society as a Teaching Member. STAT is the oldest and by far the largest representative body for AT teachers in the UK and is affiliated with all of the major representative societies around the world.

Additionally, MATTS is one of only three STAT training courses whose graduates are also eligible immediately, without further exams (which are very demanding) to become members of the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), which is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA). CHNC membership is required to obtain referrals from, or to work in, the NHS and is increasingly preferred or required by other employers.

Students from other countries are particularly welcome at MATTS, and our qualification is recognised throughout the world.

A completely flexible training schedule for each student

MATTS offers unmatched flexibility compared to other STAT-approved courses. You can choose to train full-time or choose to attend the classes that fit your personal schedule, without notice. Our course is designed to accommodate a wide range of needs, so you can progress at your own pace.

A great environment

MATTS is known for its open, friendly, welcoming, inclusive and professional learning environment that is reliably supportive of trainees, post-graduate students and qualified teachers, strengthening the skills and confidence needed to build and maintain a successful teaching practice

The advantages of a large training centre

At MATTS, our trainees benefit from the dynamic environment that only a large training course can provide. We host a vibrant community of students and an exceptionally large group of affiliated teachers. Local teachers drop in daily, and we frequently welcome visiting teachers from across the UK and abroad.

World-Class Faculty & Diverse Perspectives
Each year, some of the most renowned teacher-trainers in the world visit our school to lead classes. This exposure allows you to observe a wide range of teaching styles and work with a diverse group of fellow trainees. You will also have regular opportunities to observe the Alexander Technique being applied to specific health conditions and complex patterns of 'use.' Furthermore, several of our graduates run local 'hubs' nearby, offering you opportunities to participate in other group working environments, often at no cost.

A Connected Community
Community engagement is a cornerstone of our school. We maintain two active WhatsApp groups—one for students only and one for the entire community—where we share general announcements, work opportunities, interesting news and articles and discussions on the history and principles of the Alexander Technique.

Hands-On Professional Experience
In your final year, you will be able to draw upon our extensive network to begin your transition into professional practice. You will have opportunities for shadow teaching in music conservatoires and other educational institutions. Additionally, you will gain in confidence and skills by delivering supervised "practice lessons" to our dedicated group of local volunteers.

A pleasant and well-connected location

Most of our classes are located in a large, sunny room at the Quaker Meeting House in Wilmslow, an attractive small town in Cheshire, at the edge of the Manchester suburbs. Manchester is a much less expensive place to live than London and is well-known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Wimslow has excellent transport links that include a mainline railway station (a 15 minute walk from the school) with direct high-speed trains all over the UK and several connecting motorways. Manchester Airport is by far the most important airport in the UK outside of London, with direct flights all over the world, and is only 4 miles from Wilmslow.

Outstanding post-graduate support

MATTS has a long tradition of being particularly supportive of our graduates, should they wish to continue to visit the school, where work experience, work exchange, individual work with senior teachers and supervised hands-on practice are all available for a small, voluntary contribution.

I am interested in finding out more, what should I do next?

Usually the best thing to do next is to visit us!

We invite prospective trainees and postgraduate students to join us for a morning at the school to observe a class in action, meet our teachers and experience their teaching skills, and speak with current students about their journey. There is no better way to discover if training at MATTS is the right path for your professional future. Whether you are curious about starting your training as a teacher or looking for advanced CPD opportunities, our doors are always open and the first visit is free. Contact us directly to arrange a suitable date.

Where possible, we encourage potential trainees to visit us several times before deciding to train. If you decide to train as a teacher, previous visits count towards the minimum hours of formal training required by STAT.

Please feel free to contact the course director at any time for more information or to discuss your individual situation.

FAQs about training