Student Testimonials
Mayo School of Astrology
Victor Olliver
I have a Certificate and Diploma (natal/mundane) from the Mayo School. A number of years back I was a full-time journalist and editor but thinking it was time I deepened my interest in astrology perhaps with a view to a career change. But would I have the time to study and the commitment? Would there be flexibility as my work life was demanding?
I assessed a number of correspondence schools in the UK and overseas and opted for the Mayo – partly because of its association with the great astrologer Jeff Mayo, and partly because I was impressed by the broad range of topics outlined in the school’s curriculum. It also weighed with me that Wendy Stacey, as Chair of the Astrological Association, is a major ‘player’ in the world of astrology, a teacher, travelling speaker and link to many other organisations.
I also sensed a worldly approach – in other words, a focus on using astrology for practical purposes.
The Certificate course provides an excellent grounding in astrology and it gave me confidence to tackle the subsequent two-year Diploma course. At all times I found the Mayo to be understanding of the fact that I was fitting study around work and home life so there were occasional delays in getting tests papers back to the tutor for assessment. From the history of astrology and the mathematical construction of a horoscope to the many forecasting techniques in modern approaches and the ethics of consulting astrology, I found the tests to be clear and well thought out.
My many questions (some of which I am sure were annoying) were answered thoroughly and patiently.
It should be understood that the Mayo course does require a level of commitment. The course at times can be challenging, not least in getting one’s head around chart interpretation which starts to make greater sense the more you immerse yourself in the subject – and the Mayo’s recommended books were a great help. The course is structured to help you through each stage of learning and the element of flexibility allows you to proceed at your own pace within reason.
I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending the Mayo School for the study of astrology.
Once I had graduated, I soon discovered that the Mayo had trained me very well. I felt confident in dealing with clients and landed my first media astrology column within a year of getting the Diploma. A little while later, in late 2014, I was appointed editor of the Astrological Journal. Among other things, this post requires me to be conversant with many techniques and approaches. And as I write I am still in post.
Astrology is a vast topic – and still growing. Old techniques are being recovered thanks to translations of ancient documents. But the starting point is a thorough understanding of astrology – which the Mayo offers if you also put in the time and commitment.
Victor Olliver
Diploma Graduate (UK)
Aly Dunne
The Mayo School of Astrology has been a godsend for me. It has allowed me to study Astrology in the comfort of my own home and under the guidance and tutorage of world renowned Astrologers – allowing me to become a professional Astrologer, in no short order.
Currently, I am working on my Diploma Thesis and plan to graduate in May/ June of this year. I was fortunate to complete the Mayo certificate course with Distinction, and I thoroughly enjoyed the course.
But I have to say, that it is Wendy Stacey who has made the real difference for me. Her encouragement and kindness has helped me so much along the way, and I consider her my Astrology Mentor. Working with her and getting her feedback on my reports has given me confidence to take on the mantle of being an Astrologer. Her support has helped to become more fluent in the symbology- making it more my own. I am very grateful that I found her.
If you are interested in becoming an Astrologer or just expanding your understanding of Astrology- you can do no better than The Mayo School of Astrology.
Aly Dunne
Sacred Air Astrology
Andreas Antaris
I decided I wanted to pursue a career as an astrologer, and I was looking for a quality faculty with good reputation. After a lot of research online, I decided The Mayo School was the one for me and I couldn’t be happier with my decision.
Studying at The Mayo School not only gave me solid foundations in astrological knowledge and practice, but also gave me the confidence to combine multiple pieces of information given by the natal chart, and interpret it correctly. It was completely worth of my time, effort and money, the course covered a vast field of information, which was surprisingly easy to absorb. The syllabus was clear, logical and well-written by professional and experienced astrologers, free from astrological clichés or prejudices.
The main benefits came from answering the test papers, receiving individual feedback and interacting with my assigned tutor, Ms. Wendy Stacey. Her kind words of encouragement as well as some advices I received along guided me through my studies. Whether someone is completely new to astrology, or has already advanced knowledge on the subject, The Mayo School’s syllabus is ideal.
Another very important benefit from my studies with The Mayo School was that as a student I could register to numerous and very interesting astrological webinars completely free of charge (or at an exceptional discount). My Certificate was awarded last year (2019) and I was amazed by the professionalism I met from The Mayo School. I am currently looking forward to continuing my studies at The Mayo School and to complete the Diploma Course. I have already recommended Mayo to many people in Greece and if you are looking for quality astrological courses, delivered by professionals, at the convenience of your home, then Mayo School is the one for you.
Andreas Antaris
Certificate Graduate, Diploma Student (Greece)
Wenjia Cai
I graduated with the Mayo certificate in 2018 and have continued with the two-year diploma course afterwards. The three years I have been with the Mayo, I found the school helpful with an educational structure that is systematic and where the tutorials are extremely helpful . We gather together once per week in every six-week semester where we share and learn astrological knowledge and interpretation techniques are always delivered in detail. There are also quite a lot of discussions and extra Q and A sessions before each new semester starts. What I feel highly beneficial is that all webinars are recorded and the many handouts and links are sent weekly.
The courses are very flexible and all students are able to learn and review at their own pace. We have assignments each week and we receive timely feedback. What’s more, students are able to register for rich and educational lectures and some of these are even free of charge. There are also regular communications and news on astrological conference and scholarships, which provides further opportunities to broaden students horizons. With the very professional lecturers and guest lectures, I have made the best decision to study at the Mayo.
Wenjia Cai
Diploma Student (China/Germany)
Liz Hargreaves
My name is Liz and I graduated with a distinction diploma from the Mayo School in 2016. I had wanted to be a professional astrologer for many years and, although I had read quite a lot about astrology, I decided I wanted to study more formally and obtain an internationally recognised qualification. I could then be more confident I knew what I was doing in my astrological work and also gain respect in the astrological community, which was important to me.
I looked at several astrology schools and settled on the Mayo School because I liked their straightforward and organised approach and they offered me the opportunity to achieve an internationally respected qualification with a well-established school. I did the Certificate Course and then went on to do the Diploma.
Wendy Stacey (Chair of the Astrological Association and Principal of the Mayo School) was my tutor for the diploma. She guided me through the coursework and helped me achieve my very best work. It is necessary to work hard and be self-motivated, but I can say gaining the Mayo School diploma was a very important part of developing my new career as a professional astrologer and it also helps because your astrologer colleagues will recognise and respect your qualification.
Once you are qualified, this can open up a whole new world for you. I knew I wanted to write and I found the Mayo School diploma the perfect grounding for giving me the confidence I needed. With the support of colleagues, I have now achieved my dream of being published in the Astrological Journal.
You can also be fully confident in your abilities when approached by a potential client and when promoting your practice. You can use your letters DMS Astrol. on business cards, in the bio on your website, and for other marketing purposes, such as on your social media. You can also display your certificate in your consulting room if you have one.
When you have achieved your diploma, you can apply to join the Association of Professional Astrologers International (APAI). This will offer you not only more letters after your name, but also the opportunity to become an APAI approved astrologer. Your astrological services and qualifications can then be advertised on their website, which is invaluable when starting out and beyond.
I was early retired when I started the Mayo diploma course and I think it’s a perfect course to do if you want to start building a second career as an astrologer while in semi-retirement. Compared to the cost of other higher education fees, such as university tuition fees or Open University fees, the Mayo School offers good value for money with full tutorial support and access to supporting student webinars.
I can thoroughly recommend studying with the Mayo School and I wish you all the very best with your studies.
Liz Hargreaves
Diploma Graduate (UK)
Robert Anderson
Having been active in a number of astrological societies both local and national for several years, I decided it was about time I studied for an accredited diploma in Astrology. There were a number of schools to choose from but I was drawn to the Mayo School for a number of reasons. Firstly it had been established for many decades. Secondly it had a good reputation and was a popular choice among those friends of mine who practised professionally. Thirdly it offered options at diploma level to qualify in Natal Astrology, Mundane Astrology or both. In addition, my personal circumstances made it inconvenient to be away from home – so the facts that the Mayo course could be completed entirely via correspondence/offline and in a reasonable time-frame were major plus points – as were the affordable course fees.
As soon as I enrolled on the course I was impressed by the study manuals supplied – both as regards their detail, quality and clarity. There were plenty of practice exercises as well as the marked questions. After I made contact with my assigned tutor (Graham Ibell) and started to receive feedback on submitted papers I was enthused by his depth of astrological knowledge, constructive criticisms of my work and positive comments.
Approaching the end of the course, it was time to decide on the topics in which to specialize. My tutor encouraged me to qualify in both Natal and Mundane Astrology. Being aware of the high standards required, I was somewhat daunted initially but decided to go for it. You can imagine my delight when I was awarded a distinction diploma in Natal and Mundane Astrology!
Mayo graduates are eligible to apply for full membership of the Association of Professional Astrologers International (APAI) which will further enhance their professional standing. But whether you wish to practise professionally, or just extend and deepen your knowledge of the subject, I thoroughly recommend the Mayo diploma course to serious students of Astrology.
Robert Anderson
Diploma Graduate (UK)
Lianne McCafferty
After a long search for an Astrology course I intuitively kept returning to the Mayo School, eventually choosing to enrol due to its respected international reputation, broad syllabus & value for money.
The Diploma course contains a comprehensive range of subjects & techniques, excelling in offering the opportunity to graduate in both Natal and Mundane Astrology. The course notes are substantial and of an excellent standard, written by highly acclaimed astrologers. My tutor was always available to answer any questions, even by text, and her coaching inspired me to stretch my perspective further than I thought possible – not only did it expand my astrology, writing & research skills, but encouraged me to “bring myself to the table” through developing my own ideas and style. Even now I often refer back to the course notes, my papers and tutor’s feedback as a valuable resource when in need of some inspiration.
I graduated with the Diploma (Distinction) in both Natal & Mundane Astrology in Jan 2019 feeling empowered & very well equipped for the next stage of my Astrology career – the Mayo Diploma also enabled me to register as a member of the APAI. But importantly, the relationship with my tutor continues, now as a valued mentor.
I have since gone on to speak at such places as the 2019 Astrological Association Annual Conference & the Astrological Lodge of London as well as tutoring for the Mayo School and continuing to build my own practice now consulting with international clients.
Whatever the level of Astrology you aspire to, I highly recommend the Mayo School as a solid, challenging but thoroughly enjoyable learning experience, but also a way of opening yourself to new possibilities & opportunities!
Lianne McCafferty
Diploma Graduate (UK)
Page Amber Smith
Presented with an opportunity to provide a testimonial for the Mayo School of Astrology, I saw an opportunity to thank those who opened the gate to my journey of self-discovery. It all began with this story of my search for identity.
From a young age I continually questioned my existence and I considered this enthusiasm to be shared by everyone. It bothered me that I couldn’t find an answer to the meaning of life – my life – a speculation which later became more deeply embedded in my inner world. I was the youngest of a middle-class Australian family, a serious-natured child surrounded by those whose worldview seemed quite different to my own, or so I thought. Before long, my ‘need to know’ began to cultivate puzzling questions, dismissed by my parents with colloquial endearment; I was swiftly surveyed as ‘the black sheep of the family’ which, of course, only added fuel to my fiery quest. But as the years passed, I realised I had set out on a great race to find meaning and truth through a relentless line of enquiry which became obtusely threaded throughout the demands of daily living. I grazed on endless publications themed as spirituality, astrology, eastern philosophies and esoteric teachings. The mysteries of life became a distraction.
By the time I reached my early 50’s I hadn’t truly lingered long enough to nurture my inner world until an impenetrable roadblock in the form of a crisis fell onto my path. In astrological terms, the year that planet Chiron (‘my’ Chiron) returned to his position in the heavens at the time of my birth, tragedy rolled in on an icy wind`. Chiron’s planetary influence became a major astrological factor at this time of crisis in my life. This painful event of suffering marked a significant turning point, yet presented as an unexpected opportunity to reorient towards my deeper self. It took a number of years before I was in a position to break through but when the time arrived, the ancient science of astrology provided all the tools I needed to begin to foster the growth of a new way of becoming.
An astute student with high expectations of achievement will carefully choose a teaching institution which is recognised as an innovator in its field of excellence. The Mayo School of Astrology continues to uphold this long-held tradition of teaching excellence by endowing its students with the gift of knowledge. Before making my decision to enrol in the Mayo Diploma course, I knew that teaching support was as vital to my learning as my willingness to commit. And I was not disappointed; student support is a major focus within the Mayo School. I was continually motivated by the content of the course material and thrived on a soundly-structured programme. Communication between tutors and students was highly encouraged and staff were friendly and easily accessible at all times. I flourished on the encouragement and guidance of my dedicated tutor, Wendy Stacey, whose magnetic personality is guaranteed to inspire you; I will be forever grateful for Wendy’s unwavering support.
As a Mayo student it quickly becomes clear that you are recognised as a valued member of this institution’s learning environment and its community of colleagues; I firmly believe students prosper from a tangible sense of belonging .
I chose to graduate at the 2016 Mayo Student Conference held in London and travelled from New Zealand where I live. On receiving my Diploma during the evening’s dinner service, I felt deeply attuned to that little black sheep – my Sun in Aquarius.
Page Amber Smith
Diploma Graduate (New Zealand)
Sally Lloyd
Studying with the Mayo School was one of the best things I have ever done in my long years of using astrology. Not only because it brought my existing knowledge up to date but also because it renewed and revived my passion for astrology.
Despite my previous knowledge I took the Certificate Course, which took me back to the basics of calculating, hand drawing and interpreting a natal chart and I can honestly say that it was well worth doing. The calculations process had changed so much since I first learned to do them! Having to complete test papers that would be marked by a personal tutor meant I could see how I was progressing and where I needed to do more study and reading.
The material in the Diploma Course was wide ranging taking me deeper into what I had learned in the Certificate Course – and into areas I had never studied before. A wider world of astrology literally opened before me as the course progressed, and I began to avidly explore it.
Without a doubt studying was a challenge but so much fun and when I went to my first Student Conference I found a world full of like-minded friends, too!
I’ll always be grateful to the Mayo school and my tutors for the gifts of their encouragement and support, for sharing their knowledge and experience. The confidence they have given me in my passion for astrology is priceless. I have turned it into a career and it is part of my everyday life now, as there is always more to learn.
Sally Lloyd
Diploma Graduate (UK)
Işın Kemancı Işıklar
Astrology takes an important place in my life. I started studying it at Ilhan Astrology Institute in Istanbul. Then, I realised that there were university level astrology degrees in Europe which are globally recognised. That’s when I decided to continue my studies at The Mayo School of Astrology in London which turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve made since I have been in this field.
The Mayo School of Astrology encourages and inspires students while teaching Astrology to the highest standard with a well-disciplined manner. I received my diploma together with an award of merit. Meanwhile, I was qualified for the membership of Association of Professional Astrologers International (APAI).
During my studies with them, I enhanced my knowledge with the supportive and instructive approach of each tutor. I kept in touch with them after graduating and continued to learn from their knowledge. Today, I am proud to be an alumni of The Mayo School of Astrology.
Işın Kemancı Işıklar
Diploma Graduate (Turkey)
Susan L. Miller
I feel very fortunate that I was able to study Astrology with the Mayo school. I completed both the Advanced Certificate and Diploma programs from 2013 to 2016. The tuition is very affordable and a great value. The program is highly organized and structured. Starting with fundamental astrological concepts, building to advanced topics, the Mayo school offers an extremely extensive and thorough astrological education. The source material in their syllabus is brilliantly laid out. Each student is assigned a tutor whose feedback is invaluable. The text books and additional suggested reading are written by some of the leading Astrologers in the world. I now have a library of material I can refer back to, now and into the future.
I spent 10 years learning astrology on my own. While studying with the Mayo school I realized I had overlooked some fundamental concepts. There are many schools of thought in astrology, due to the fact it is an ancient subject developed over thousands of years. The education you receive at Mayo gives you the ability to quickly grasp any alternative methods you may be interested in. Whether you are new to astrology, aspire to become a professional Astrologer or merely have a passion to learn the subject, The Mayo school offers a world class astrological education.
Susan L. Miller
Diploma Graduate (USA)
Anastassia Tassoula Fragkia
I studied at the Mayo the years among 2013-2017, first getting my Certificate and then my Diploma Astrology Degree. In 2012 I did a little research on which astrology school to choose for my astrological education, and I found out that the Mayo was the best and the most known astrology school world while. Fortunately, they had the most convenient way of teaching (distance learning program) for me. As I lived and worked in Greece as an agriculturist, I needed a school that I could attend remotely in my own time and Mayo offered that to me.
While I have had a broad education, A bachelor’s degree, Two Master’s degrees and two Diplomas along with further certifications, I can strongly say that Mayo has a very well-structured and comprehensive curriculum. The course content covers a wide range of subjects and is so well organised (and given astrology is such a complex and multilateral subject). I surely have to mention the warm embrace I always felt from my teachers, always being there always when I needed, ready to explain every detail and solve any question I had and truly encouraging whenever I needed it. My first tutor was Christine Chalklin and later Wendy Stacey (Principal of the Mayo School of Astrology). I am particularly pleased that we still keep in touch and they are willing to help me with anything I need even after my studies have finished. One more of the benefits having studied at the Mayo is that it meets the criteria for joining the Association of Professional Astrologers International. The school’s prestige and recognition is so high that as long as you say that you are a Mayo graduate all doors seems to open automatically.
For all the reasons above, I would choose The Mayo School for learning astrology. I can say that my love, excitement and passion for Astrology found the best place to grow within Mayo, and I am very thankful for all the people who helped create this along with the vision of a high-quality astrology practice.
Anastassia Tassoula Fragkia
Diploma Graduate (UK)
Sarah Louise Swindells
I cannot recommend this course highly enough, it’s fantastic! I’m on the final stretch of the diploma course with one unit to go and a dissertation to complete and I’m thoroughly enjoying every minute of it. There is such a variety of astrological topics which you are taken through incrementally at a pace that is very manageable. Theory is mixed with practical tasks, so you get the opportunity to apply what you’re being taught. The tutors are extremely knowledgeable and dedicated to their subject, each with their specialisms and unique styles, and they are always on hand with helpful tips, suggestions and feedback to aid the learning process. They are also very friendly and approachable.
Throughout the course I’ve found myself living and breathing astrology, it’s become so much part of my everyday life and thoughts and to be honest before doing this course I didn’t realise that there was so much to it. You are provided with so much food for thought which then sets you off down other paths of learning and research which broadens and enhances the whole experience. A truly fascinating, all-pervading and meaningful subject, unlike no other. If you’re interested in astrology but not sure whether to take the step towards more serious study then all I can say is go for it, you won’t regret it!
Sarah Louise Swindells
Diploma Student (UK)
Dimitra Mazioti
Studying astrology with The Mayo School was one of the best experiences in my life. It was a kind of enlightenment and it opened my mind to new ways of understanding reality. The course was demanding, but it was worth it. The tutors were very supportive and willing to answer any questions at any time. During the courses, I was taught the basic principles and techniques of astrology. I was asked to write dozens of tests which gave my the chance to express everything I was taught but also my own way of seeing and understanding things. This was very important to me. The school and the tutors allow for the students personal opinion and judgement. The courses are very methodical. Even a person without any previous knowledge of astrology could follow the flow of information. I already had some knowledge of astrology, so the courses enabled all my knowledge to be organised in the right order and position in my mind. I was able to establish solid foundations and a dynamic structure of knowledge which was almost impossible to have it before. I am very thankful to Mayo school and its tutors for giving me this opportunity.
Sarah Louise Swindells
Diploma Student (UK)
Pinar Pir Söderlund
With Mayo School of Astrology and my instructors wonderfully considered teaching and material I feel so much more confident of my abilities as an astrologer. The curriculum is well designed, program and material introduces concepts gradually. I love learning online, in my own pace. Teachers were wonderful. There was a lot of homework, but with each step, with each homework I enjoyed a lot of learning. Also I liked the webinars much, I learnt from them a lot. I have already recommended Mayo School of Astrology to many of my friends.
Pinar Pir Söderlund
Diploma Graduate (Turkey)
Olympia Christodoulis
For me, studying in Mayo was a dream come true. I have been reminding myself ever since I started doing astrology that I wanted to learn at one of the best schools in the field of astrology. Years later and when I was able to start my astrology course, I found that The Mayo school of Astrology was truly one of the best of its kind. Starting from the rich reading materials, lessons with my tutor, who was always by my side to help me with any questions I had, the exercises I was given, I had complete guidance which helped me understand and study this wonderful art of astrology from the best in the field.
The tasks I had to process each time were extremely demanding and multifaceted which impressed me. I was confronted with issues I had never imagined existed in astrology, and most importantly, through the Mayo, I acquired a thorough knowledge of astrological issues and education that prepared me working in the field.
Throughout, I had help and guidance from my tutor, who was always close to me, willing to advise me and expand my knowledge. Certainly it was and is a very demanding and I had to work hard to complete the course, but that is what sets it apart and made me study the subject in the best way. Finishing and acquiring the diploma, I have had a thorough knowledge of the subject, which has helped me to make astrology my main profession.
Studying astrology never stops, but it is very important to study it with seriousness, responsibility and to apply the knowledge and experience of a serious and reliable astrology school. The art of astrology is a very serious one, and The Mayo School of Astrology provides a flesh-and-bone courses, worthy of its place in science.
Olympia Christodoulis
Diploma Graduate (Greece)
Denise Kastoudi
I really enjoyed studying with the Mayo School of Astrology. I had no doubts about choosing the Mayo since it has a high reputation in Greece and some exceptional Greek astrologers have attended it in the past.
My experience with the Mayo goes back to 2011 when I decided to pursue studies on a subject that was to become my passion. Distance learning is really convenient for me since it makes it easy to balance work, family and studies. Upon enrolment I received all the course materials and the truth is that I got stuck in from the beginning. All the modules were well structured, helping me to gradually gain knowledge in the field. The course material was easy to follow, and the essay tests properly designed to help put this knowledge into practice. I should mention the extensive bibliography as well, which stimulated me to study further and find my own interests within the various fields of astrology. I chose to finish both natal and mundane astrology, which I think gave me a more complete perspective of astrology’s interpretive depth.
Feedback from my tutors were regular and I never felt it difficult to communicate with them, to ask for help or clarification on any assignment. They were always supportive and encouraging and thanks to their guidance I feel I have achieved my astrological knowledge to a high standard.
I have also participated in the various webinars that obviously help get to know other students and the tutors and are very informative, covering a wide range of astrological issues. I didn’t miss the chance to meet Wendy Stacey and Frank Clifford and other distinguished astrologers at the weekend conference for the Mayo students in February 2016 in Athens. I also joined the Astrology Student Conference in June 2017 in London, with all the excitement of graduating with the diploma and receiving it during the conference.
I would highly recommend The Mayo School to anyone who is looking to gain knowledge on the fascinating subject of astrology and for anyone who wishes to prepare himself for a career as a qualified astrologer!
Denise Kastoudi
Certificate & Diploma Graduate (Greece)
Alison Cearns
I began studying with the Mayo School in 2014 and completed the Certificate course in 2015 and the Diploma in 2017. I had already been studying in an informal way from my own books for many years, but the Mayo course gave me a more solid basis of understanding and enabled me to move beyond the stock phrases of horoscope interpretation derived from reference books towards a deeper understanding, and to synthesise the many features in a chart, some of which will contradict each other and demand a thoughtful and nuanced interpretation. It must be said that this is a process that continues well beyond any course of study with one’s own further reading and reflection. Like anything really worth knowing, astrology is difficult and requires a lot of work.
I received a very comprehensive set of manuals which explained all the technical elements essential for drawing up and interpreting natal charts, as well as a wealth of background information about the history of astrology and the astronomy that underlies it. I still find this material useful now, and make regular use of it, after 5 years of continuing practice and study (I have gone on to qualify as a horary astrologer).
The course of study involved 24 written tests for each of the Certificate and Diploma courses, and these were marked by my tutors with comments which I generally found helpful and thought-provoking. The Mayo School also offers some very interesting webinars on both general astrology and specialised topics.
I can recommend studying with Mayo as an excellent introduction to this fascinating subject.
Alison Cearns
Diploma Student (UK)
