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.