Careful observation of the developing child reveals a series of discernible developmental stages, both physical and emotional. Steiner’s educational principles, which are based on his insight into these developmental stages of childhood, are expressed pre-eminently in the Steiner (or Waldorf) Curriculum, whose aim is therefore to foster and strengthen the unfolding individual capacities of the child in accordance with their actual developmental and psychological needs. Through this approach, practical, artistic and intellectual capacities are awakened in the child through which they can grow in confidence, initiative and imagination. By thus avoiding cramming, premature specialisation or a tendency to fill the child with information, which they are unable to digest adequately, we aim to develop positive, practical, resourceful and enthusiastic human beings, in whom capacities have been nurtured that can be developed in later life. Considerable emphasis is placed throughout upon art in the wider sense; and the creative ability and imaginative powers of the child are strengthened by artistic presentation of the various topics.

 

A co-operative rather than a competitive atmosphere is fostered in the classrooms where respect for each child’s gifts and unique individual capacities and impulses is encouraged.

 

The School provides a caring atmosphere, which nurtures the children’s sense of well-being and encourages them to relate to their peers and others within a socially structured and harmonious environment.

 

Over the years, teachers at Philpots have revised the Steiner Waldorf curriculum to meet the particular needs of the children they have been teaching. Each teacher will differentiate their work to meet the varying ability levels within a class.

 

To meet the needs of a wide range of academic ability in the School, a number of different methods are used to accredit the work of pupils. Most pupils are entered for examination at GCSE or Entry Level in English, Maths, Science and Art at a time that is appropriate for each.

 

Open College Network (OCN) Courses for post-16 pupils accredit a wide range of subjects that most pupils study. Continuous assessment by the teachers avoids examinations for those pupils who least benefit from additional stress in their lives. Current courses include Stable Management, Weaving, Pottery and Handwork.