Jane Barclay

The Trauma of Boarding at School

Being transported from home to a place utterly strange, and left there, is a traumatic experience of being rendered unsafe in an instant. The initial startle, unless activated into Fight or Flight (the instinctive physiological response to any situation that threatens safety,) turns into prolonged shock; this position of tension will last as long as it’s needed, until deemed safe to release. Children away at school are forced to fend for themselves; whatever the help from peers and encouraging supervision from staff, the very process of adaptation that is so highly-regarded as character-building having to be independent, reliable, tough, on the outside at least carries a psychological price that can lead to life-long problems in adulthood, if not sooner.

‘Teaching? Me? Never.’ The Process of Becoming Continues…

SYNOPSISIn this article Jane draws on her personal process to track the experience of expanding her practice into facilitating workshops.

What does black treacle have in common with riding a Harley-Davidson?

SYNOPSISIn her personal account, Jane Barclay demonstrates how the process of self-integration is alive in every relationship—including, and perhaps especially, the one with her 1200cc Harley. The story is one of emergence from the patriarchal world of boarding school, of reclaiming, becoming and enjoying herself as an empowered woman.

‘I Can't Get no Satisfaction’

I settle down to write this piece with a strong cup of black coffee at my side—wondering with wry humour how much this simple action is about choice, habit, addiction…