Steiner
Rudolf Steiner, Austrian philosopher, scientist and educator developed a school of thought based on the principle that education should support the development of the child in its physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual growth towards a becoming a free and responsible adult.
The focus of the Steiner ethos is unhurried and creative educational setting where children are given opportunities to encounter joys of learning and are provided with full ray of childhood experiences. Children learn co-operation, self-reliance, and independence, naturally through imitation in a caring and creative environment.
Here children combine imaginative and creative play with sharing of activities or tasks. There is a focus on a multi-cultural setting so children learn about other cultures and festivals. Natural materials are used for hand crafts dependent on the seasonal changes. Children share in age appropriate household activities such as baking and cleaning. Outdoor activities also have a huge role to play. Children learn how to tend their own vegetable patch, look after animals and learn about the natural environment around them.
Links and Resources
ALFA Project
Our curriculum is based on the Steiner/Waldorf curriculum, as devised by the Austrian Philosopher Rudolf Steiner and practised by 800 Waldorf Schools around the world
Irish Steiner Waldorf Early Childhood Association
The ISWECA website is Ireland's primary source of information about Steiner Waldorf education in early childhood for parents, our members, government and funding agencies