Social Permaculture

by Erin Young Achieving our dreams and visions for a world that cares for earth, people, spirit and fair share of abundance and resources requires dynamic and effective organisation. This form of organisation is designed with transparency, effectiveness and equal-value, governed by a resilience resembling nature’s inherently sophisticated feedback loops, and provides connection, trust and fulfilment. Sociocracy is a social technology for the governance and facilitation of these groups and organisations. Based on circle process, the methodology allows a clarity of group purpose on macro and micro levels, bringing together all elements of the system through a balanced “power-with” autonomy. Founded on the both/and approach, Sociocracy allows for both flat-structure at the appropriate level and a hierarchy of focus. Each person is invited to become a leader in their domain of influence, collaboratively deciding on operational policy in semi-autonomous self-organising groups in order to achieve the organisational mission. Stay tuned …

Great feedback was received from participants in Robin’s two day Intro to ‘Dynamic Groups, Dynamic Learning’ course at Northey Street City Farm recently. Organised by the Education Coordinator of the farm, Emma Brindle, the course attracted people from as far away as Hong Kong while also catering to employees and teachers at the inner city Brisbane farm.  “In two days I feel I have gained a more comprehensive framework and set of tools than in my teaching degree.” Ken “As dense, tasty and wholesome as a slice of sourdough TOAST.” “The two day intro has opened up a world of possibilities when facilitating groups learning. A must for educators.” Gavin N.S.C.F. “This course gave me a toolbox of practical processes so I can facilitate exciting, effective learning experiences.” Ronnie Martin

Here’s an example of one of the Dynamic Groups, Dynamic Learning courses. We held this Course over the last week of August 2016. Below is the information if you are interested for 2021! Dates for the next one are 21st to 26th March 2021 at Crystal Waters SE Qld . Robin’s ‘Dynamic Groups, Dynamic Learning’ six day residential course in Australia for 2016 was held at Crystal waters. If you’ve been thinking for ages about doing this course, now’s the time. There’s a good number booked in and still a few places left. In short, it’s a professional development training to gain more skills, confidence and processes that inspire, inform and create success in all our groups and learning environments. It also increases the good work being done in education, group facilitation and leadership locally and globally. Click here to see the poster with details and costs Also see the Dynamic …

https://vimeo.com/gaiacraft/communitypermaculture Robin introducing Community Permaculture When people come together in groups or communities, they are capable of being an empowered force for positive change. Permaculture is a uniquely creative way to facilitate group dynamics and governance. Robin Clayfield has been facilitating holistic learning programs for individuals, groups and organizations for decades. She is one of the Pioneers of Permaculture and her life’s work has included bringing her dynamic educational methods and processes to people all across the planet. Her many offerings include training on Community Governance and Decision Making as well as Dynamic Learning.  Film produced by Dana Wilson gaiacraft.com Robin Clayfield dynamicgroups.com.au envoy : Delvin Solkinson  Team : Kym Chi and Annaliese Hordern Filmed on Location at the Sustainability Centre sustainability-centre.org  

Ross Mars, Convener of the Australasian Permaculture Convergence (APC) in WA in October has invited Robin to be the principle trainer of a five day Advanced Permaculture Teachers Course to be held from 10th to 14th October. Annaliese Hordern and Charles Otway will join Robin to present the course and Ross and others will have a Special Guest spot.  More information, bios about the presenters and bookings can be seen by clicking here on the APC13 Website. A quick transition will see Robin arrive at Fairharvest in Margaret River, hosted by Jodie Lane and team. She’ll be offering a one day Social Permaculture course on Sunday 16th October, joined by her good friend Robina McCurdy from NZ/Aotearoa. On Monday 17th she’ll also offer her ‘Dynamic Decision Making’ day, ideal for people involved in groups, teams, courses or organisations from any industry or genre. Click here to see the Social Permaculture Course …

Robin’s currently working on the ToolBox chapter of her new book, number 1 in the series of 5. Here’s one entry (unedited as yet) from the ‘Glue Processes’ section, complete with an activity and a process to try out.CELEBRATION  PROCESSESThis is one of the most important activities in the Tool Box for helping people integrate and be able to complete with the group and move forward. Celebrations can mark the end of a project or group, they can thank and honour a person who is leaving or they can acknowledge a job well done. It may be that a long term vision or goal is achieved and it’s time for the next phase of the group or that major funding has been received. Celebrations are like a ‘Rite of Passage’ which acknowledges transitions and supports the moving on. They often help people relax and step outside their usual roles and …