Waldorf education, founded by Rudolf Steiner (sometimes referred to as Steiner-Waldorf or Steiner education), is a holistic approach to education that focuses on the development of the whole child—intellectual, emotional, practical, and artistic. It emphasises creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.

Bristol Steiner School provides a nourishing and supportive environment for children aged 3-11, from Kindergarten through Primary Years. Children younger than 3 can attend our Parent and Child groups. We are working hard to open a Middle School (equivalent to years 7-9) and will provide updates as the work progresses.

The Waldorf curriculum is designed to align with the natural developmental stages of children. It integrates academics with artistic, practical, and physical activities promoting a balanced and well-rounded education. There is a strong emphasis on imagination, creativity, and experiential learning.

One of the unique features of the Waldorf curriculum is the Main Lesson. Each day begins with a two-hour Main Lesson, focusing intensively on a single subject for a period of three to four weeks. This immersive approach allows children to explore topics in depth, fostering a deeper understanding and connection to the material. The Main Lesson integrates storytelling, art, music, and hands-on activities, making learning both engaging and meaningful.

Play is considered essential in Waldorf education, especially in the early years. It fosters creativity, social skills and emotional development. Through imaginative play, children explore the world, develop problem-solving abilities and build relationships.

The UK’s national body for Waldorf education Waldorf UK has recently undertaken significant development and modernisation of both the reading and maths approach, taking into account the latest understanding of child development and learning.

Reading and maths are taught in an integrated and holistic manner. For example, storytelling, drawing, and rhythmic activities are used to introduce letters and numbers. Learning is made engaging and relevant to children's experiences and developmental stages.

Emotional wellbeing is a cornerstone of Steiner Waldorf education. The school creates a supportive and nurturing environment where children feel safe and valued. Small class sizes and strong teacher-pupil relationships ensure personalised attention and emotional support.

The school takes an attachment-based approach to supporting positive behaviour; in other words, we focus on developing strong relationships and understanding between children and teachers to inspire children to cooperate while allowing for early intervention which minimises disruptive behaviour.

Teachers in Waldorf schools are trained in Waldorf education principles and practices. Many have specialised training from recognised Steiner Waldorf teacher education programmes and bring a deep understanding of child development and holistic education.

In the early years, Waldorf education minimises the use of technology and screen time, focusing instead on hands-on activities and direct human interaction. The school is a ‘phone-free zone’; parents and visitors are asked to leave their phones at reception, thus modelling a healthy detachment from our tech.

This approach supports healthy development and reduces the risks associated with early exposure to screens.

The exception to this is where technology is required to facilitate a child’s engagement with the curriculum due to their specific needs.

Yes, parental involvement is highly encouraged. The school fosters a strong sense of community and partnership with parents through regular communication, meetings, and involvement in school activities and festivals.

Bristol Steiner School is committed to supporting all children, including those with special educational needs. We work closely with families and external professionals to provide tailored support and ensure every child can thrive. Our approach includes individualised learning plans and a supportive, inclusive environment.

No, Waldorf education values academic learning and integrates it with artistic, practical, and physical activities. The curriculum is designed to develop intellectual, emotional, and physical capacities in a balanced way, fostering a deep love of learning.

Waldorf education is non-denominational and inclusive. It respects all religious and cultural backgrounds, fostering a sense of spirituality and reverence for life without promoting any specific religious beliefs.

Waldorf education provides a structured environment with a clear rhythm and routine. The curriculum is carefully designed to meet the developmental needs of children at each stage, offering both freedom and guidance in learning.

Children in Waldorf schools begin learning to read when they are developmentally ready, typically around the age of six or seven. This approach ensures that reading is introduced in a way that supports a lifelong love of literacy, rather than as a pressured early milestone. Children of this age are intrinsically motivated to learn to read and write and don’t require compulsion.

Waldorf provides an education that benefits all children, not just those who are artistically inclined, appealing to diverse interests and abilities The curriculum includes a broad range of subjects including sciences, mathematics, languages, art and physical education.