‘The priority of the Steiner ethos is to provide an unhurried and creative learning environment where children can find the joy in learning and experience the richness of childhood rather than early specialisation or academic hot-housing.’
I had the fantastic opportunity of visiting a Steiner School in Dartington today. There was an amazing atmosphere at the school's xmas fair; a real sense of community as the parents were supporting the event whole-heartedly. I was really interested in finding out about the school's setting and I have to say, it was beautiful. The children have a huge amount of space to learn practical skills outside the classroom. These included creating their own plots of land to grow plants, vegetables, herbs and fruit, making coal, metal work and wood work. It is nice to see that the Steiner approach gives equal attention to all areas of learning and not just 'the core' subjects of Numeracy and Literacy.
‘Steiner schools have a reputation for producing well-rounded and balanced human beings who are able to cope with the demands of a fast-changing and uncertain world.’
The holistic and experiential approach really allows children to be children. Childen are encouraged to use the beauty of nature to learn about the world around them. It is so important to give children a secure and warm environment to learn in and I feel that the Steiner approach ensures this. I would like to thank some new-found-friends for inviting me to this fantastic school.
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