Aim to be an Sogetsu teacher

This section explains the way to become a certified Sogetsu teacher.

30 Lessons in about 10 months.
After completing all the studies of the four curricula, lessons continue for acquisition of a Teacher’s Diploma (to be officially certified as Sogetsu teacher). At this stage, the curriculum composed of the four key words “Technique,” “Materials,” “Placement,” and “Creation” learned to get a more confident foundation of skills, knowledge, and greater creativity. At the same time, training is required to gain mental preparedness as a teacher. Upon completion of Curriculum 5, application can be made for Teacher’s Diploma Fourth Grade (the first stage of teacher’s diploma), a Hand-carved Kanban/Name board, and Hand-carved Sekisatsu/Nameplate.

Application for Certificates/Diplomas is made by the teacher to Sogetsu Headquarters in Japan. The application procedure requires approximately 3 months for Certificates/Diplomas, and 8 months for a Hand- carved Kanban/Name board and Hand-carved Sekisatsu/Nameplate.

As natural wood is used, grain/texture/color/burning brand mark of each name board or name plate varies depending on the area of production, natural environment, etc.

More lessons are necessary for acquiring a higher grade.

• Teacher’s Diploma 4th Grade
• Teacher’s Diploma 3rd Grade
• Teacher’s Diploma 2nd Grade Sanyo
• Teachers Diploma 2nd Grade Jonin Sanyo
• Teacher’s Diploma 1st Grade Somu
• Teacher’s Diploma 1st Grade Jonin Somu
• Teacher’s Diploma 1st Grade Komon
• Teacher’s Diploma 1st Grade Riji

To acquire Teacher’s Diploma 1st Grade Komon and Riji, based on the teacher’s recommendation, it is necessary to pass the qualification examination held by Sogetsu Foundation. The examination is held once a year.

It is necessary to join Sogetsu Teachers’ Association and a local branch/study group as a teaching member. By doing so, the members can gain the most updated information of Sogetsu School and keep on improving their skills together with co-members.

Please contact us to find out how to join.

Sogetsu Teachers’ Association, under Sogetsu Foundation, consists of Sogetsu Teacher’s Diploma holders (who are at or higher than Teacher’s Diploma Fourth Grade). Its activities are not limited in Japan but widely organized all over the world. The STA has been working for further diffusion and development of Sogetsu Ikebana through various programs and events to deepen understanding of Ikebana and to upgrade the Ikebana skills and spirit among the members, including the ones directly held by Iemoto.
The STA is joined by both teaching and non-teaching members.

• The member is entitled; To be officially certified to teach Sogetsu Ikebana by registering as a teaching member.
  To receive our bimonthly “So” magazine and “So Newsletter.”
• To have various opportunities of further Ikebana studies, including seminars, workshops, demonstrations, participation in exhibitions.
• To take part in the local Sogetsu activities by joining a local branch.
• To get a membership discount when purchasing the Sogetsu magazines, books and containers.

To join the Sogetsu Teachers Association, please contact:

Sogetsu Foundation, Services for Membership Department
TEL：+81-3-3408-1120
FAX：+81-3-3405-4947
E-mail：members@sogetsu.or.jp

Consisting of STA members, the Branches and Study Groups (SGs) were established globally to provide a base for members to exchange information, learn ikebana techniques, and provide local communication.
There are 120 Branches and SGs in 38 countries and regions.