“To provide Freemasons in the Province of Northumberland with opportunities to increase their Masonic knowledge and skills.”
This mission guides everything we do – from structured learning programmes to informal workshops and digital resources, helping brethren explore and understand the depth and beauty of Freemasonry.
Learning & Development in Northumberland is designed to be accessible, flexible, and relevant to every Freemason, no matter their experience or background. We support brethren at all stages of their Masonic journey by:
Delivering workshops and sessions within and outside Lodge meetings, covering practical, ritualistic, and philosophical aspects of the Craft and Royal Arch.
Supporting Lodge Officers and Mentors with targeted resources and training that help them carry out their roles with confidence.
Encouraging curiosity through digital tools like Solomon and in-person events, making learning an ongoing, shared experience.
Responding to real needs, shaped by feedback from Lodge Mentors, Officers, and brethren, as well as the findings of our Provincial survey.
UGLE Initiatives
We actively promote learning programmes like Solomon and the Solomon Academy, as encouraged by the United Grand Lodge of England. These provide structured, nationally endorsed resources to help Masons grow in confidence and understanding.
Provincial Priorities
We support training set by the Provincial Grand Lodge, including leadership development, ritual proficiency, and Lodge Officer guidance.
Lodge & Chapter Requests
We welcome direct requests from Lodges and Chapters for presentations, Solomon “nuggets,” or other curated resources, tailored to suit specific occasions or member needs.
Support for Lodges of Instruction
We work closely with existing Lodges of Instruction to reinforce their efforts, assist with materials, and provide facilitation if requested.
Mentor Feedback
Our programme is responsive to the needs expressed by Lodge Mentors, who serve as vital links between individual members and the Province. This helps ensure we're offering what brethren are actively seeking.
Craft & Royal Arch Integration
We operate as one team across the Craft and the Royal Arch, providing unified support that encourages a full Masonic journey.
“Masonic learning deepens our appreciation of ritual, helps us grow in character, and strengthens the experience we offer within our Lodges. Whether you’re newly initiated or an experienced brother, engaging with structured development leads to greater confidence, insight, and fellowship”
Provincial Grand Learning & Development Officer
Bob Waddell
Bob leads the Province’s learning initiatives, working closely with lodges to promote accessible, relevant Masonic education for all.
Assistant Provincial Grand Master (L&D Lead)
David Armstrong
As APGM, David oversees the strategic delivery of learning across the Province, with a particular focus on mentorship and Light Blues development.
Deputy Provincial Grand Learning & Development Officer
Darren Bolton
A dedicated educator with a PGCE and QTLS, I lecture at Newcastle College University Centre and the Open University. My Masonic journey began in November 2012 at The St Anthony's Lodge No. 4423, where I've served as Worshipful Master for two terms. I'm also the current WM of The Lodge Justice No. 4421 and a subscribing member of several other lodges, including the Provincial Grand Stewards Lodge (PGSL), for which I am also the current Secretary.
My commitment to the Light Blues is clear from my past roles as Secretary (2017-2022) and Chairman (2022-2023) of the Light Blues Club. I was appointed a Provincial Grand Steward (PProvGStwd) in November 2023 and subsequently Deputy Provincial Grand Learning & Development Officer in May 2025.
In addition to my Provincial duties, I was recently appointed as the Local Secretary for Northumberland for the Quatuor Coronati Correspondence Circle (QCCC) - an affiliate body of the Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2027, the Premier Lodge of Masonic Research. In this role, I aim to promote engagement with Masonic research and encourage local brethren to explore the educational resources and membership opportunities offered by the QCCC.
I'm keen to support Light Blues, offering advice on Solomon and presenting talks and lectures in Lodges. I currently lead an initiative for Provincial Grand Stewards to deliver Solomon Nuggets and Ritual at Provincial Team visits, and I’m always happy to advise any Light Blues with aspirations of becoming a Provincial Grand Steward.
Solomon is the United Grand Lodge of England’s official Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) – a powerful platform designed to educate, inspire, and support Freemasons throughout their journey. With a rich collection of articles, presentations, quizzes, and resources, Solomon helps brethren build confidence, deepen understanding, and enhance the experience of Lodge meetings.
Expand your Masonic knowledge at your own pace
Discover practical insights into ritual, history, and symbolism
Support your Lodge by sharing materials and delivering engaging content
Earn recognition through modules like the Solomon Diploma
Important Note: You’ll need to register for a free account before accessing content. Once registered, we recommend starting with the “Getting Started with Solomon” module.
Solomon is modular for a reason. Each section is tailored to your current Masonic stage.
To preserve the integrity of future ceremonies, it’s essential to only access material appropriate to your degree.
These specially curated learning tracks are ideal for new members or those progressing through the Craft and Royal Arch
An overview of the Lodge structure and officer roles
Historical background to the ceremony
Exploration of signs, symbols, Tracing Boards, Charges, and Working Tools
Tip: Be sure to log in to your Solomon account before clicking any module link.
This module is designed for those who have recently been initiated. It introduces the structure and purpose of the Lodge, the symbolic meaning behind the Entered Apprentice ceremony, and explains early Masonic principles. It’s a perfect starting point to begin understanding the Craft and your role within it.
For brethren who have taken their second regular step in Freemasonry, this module explores the deeper moral and philosophical themes of the Fellowcraft Degree. It covers the symbolism of the working tools, the significance of the Tracing Board, and your growing role in Lodge life.
This module provides insight into the completion of your journey through the Craft Degrees. It offers guidance on the allegorical lessons of the Third Degree, the importance of fidelity and integrity, and helps deepen your understanding of the ritual, symbolism, and your responsibilities as a full member.
For those who have joined the Royal Arch, this module introduces the history, symbolism, and spiritual teachings of this important Order. It explains the structure of a Chapter, explores the meaning behind its ceremonies, and helps new Companions understand the continuation of their Masonic journey.
Our goal is to offer learning opportunities throughout the year, from lodge-based sessions to province-wide workshops.
Have a question, an idea for a future workshop, or want to get more involved in Masonic learning?
We’d love to hear from you.
Please speak to your Lodge Mentor or Secretary, who can connect you with the Provincial Learning & Development team. Whether you’re seeking guidance, resources, or looking to bring L&D to your Lodge, we’re here to help support your Masonic journey.
Email us directly at learning@pgln.org.uk with your questions or suggestions.
