Our Programs
Although all Steiner schools teach using the same pedagogy (teaching methods) and with the same curriculum framework, each school develops its own authentic and unique character reflecting the expression of the families that make up the school community and the wider community.
The Steiner approach takes a unique view of child development and these understandings are woven into every element of teaching children as they grow to meet them where they are, giving room for each stage of development to be fully realised. In addition to academic progress, moral and ethical development is an integral part of planning and curriculum delivery. Three broad stages of development are
  • Learning to play (Early childhood, 0-7 years): Children of this age learn through imitation and creative play. Their play is purposeful, and they learn actively, acting out what they see and experience. They learn very differently than adults and older children and their understanding is deepened through replaying events and images. The focus in the classroom is on allowing for play in combination with careful role-modelling using strategies such as purposeful work and maintaining a sense of rhythm and balance.
  • Learning to work (Primary – Middle School, 7-14 years): At this age, children’s imagination comes to the fore, and it is their imaginative capacities that lead them to engage more deeply with academic material. Their emotional needs and development are carefully matched to the content, and they experience concepts from many angles, drama, art, singing, movement, to lay the foundation for future creativity, problem solving and innovation.
  • Learning to be themselves (High School and beyond, 14-21 years): Students of this age are motivated to learn through inspiration. Their capacity for critical thinking develops rapidly. The Steiner curriculum meets these needs through a curriculum which explores and exemplifies the strength of the human spirit. Young people develop courage, confidence and resilience to go out into the world with a strong sense of self and their values.
Additional Classes
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Arts
Art is used by class teachers throughout the entire day in a Steiner school to inspire a joy in learning within the students.  Creative expression through Visual Arts, Music, Speech and Drama, Creative Movement and Media Arts are woven through the main lesson and delivered as specialised subjects in the afternoon periods of the learning day.  Every student participates in singing, dance and instrument playing each day.
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Bush School and Outdoor Play
The natural environment is utilised in all areas of Steiner school education.  In addition to including outdoor experiences into the academic learning, the children also participate in outdoor education.
The includes gardening studies; field studies, immersion excursions to the Tasmanian wilderness; bush walking; camps for all year levels.