What makes Steiner Education Unique

  • Respect for the unique individuality and recognition of the spiritual essence of each student at evolving stages of maturation. This is our Special Character
  • HEAD HEART and   HANDS  - a  balanced teaching of  INTELLECTUAL, EMOTIVE /CREATIVE and PRACTICAL in all lessons. The curriculum is tailored to reflect and honour the maturation of developmental growth.
  • Non Computer based education in kindergarten and Primary school. Non ‘Modern Learning Environment’ classrooms.   ICT  developed in high school,  with BYOD  devices from  year 11 .
  • Unhurried development of literacy in primary years resulting in above average results in later years. i.e. formal reading doesn’t begin until children are six.
  • Primary school teacher stays with the same class for up to 4 to 7 years. A deep relationship between student and teacher develops. The family/student/school triangle important to educational success.
  • Emphasis on knowledge eg Science, literacy  and maths,  enveloped by beauty, wonder and respect  (often through artistry & creativity )
  • Teaching through imagination and stories so that facts, atmosphere, emotive involvement (and therefore long term memory) blend into one teaching process.
  • Low pupil/ teacher ratio in high school contributes to high level of NCEA academic success 
  • The MAINLESSON – an intense teaching technique. A unique blending of knowledge, culture, art, activity and thinking in each Mainlesson block.
  • Wide historical, geographical and scientific curriculum over the 12 year teaching period.
  • Specific techniques for developing deep, long term memory retention.
  • Eurythmy - a specific Steiner movement form
  • Practical subjects including handwork, gardening, woodwork (construction and wood carving), technologies, copper work, textiles, cooking and clay work.
  • Annual class play at each year level
  • EOTC camp at every level from class 3
  • Whole staff studies on specific child of concern.
  • Organic food in school cafeteria.

 

What is the same as other schools?

  • Fulfil all the National Curriculum Achievement Objectives – Annual Plans and Student Goals
  • NCEA levels 1,2,3  and UE
  • Wide range of academic, practical, arts based NCEA  subjects to choose from.
  • Extensive health, sexuality and social issues programme.
  • Sports programme with high involvement in inter-school sports.
  • Itinerant music tuition, choirs, and orchestra above the daily music work.
  • Playground health and safety procedures with an emphasis on bullying awareness.
  • Honouring the Treaty of Waitangi in both Te Reo language and integrated through school lessons.
  • Developed extensive behaviour requirements and non punitive processes for transforming unwanted behaviours.
  • Quality development and accountability systems within management.
  • Regular Assessment and reporting processes.