Ringwood Waldorf School is a co-educational independent school catering for pupils aged 3 to 18, on the edge of the New Forest. The school is dedicated to educating children according to the pedagogical principles of Dr Rudolf Steiner.

These guidelines place the developing child at the centre of all educational activities. Teaching is considered to be an art, through which a teacher can respond to the needs of each individual in a creative way. Ringwood Waldorf School provides a broad curriculum, balancing academic, artistic and practical subjects alike. In this way we address the whole child in thinking, feeling and doing, cultivating physical wellbeing, a rich inner life, flexibility in thinking and a joy for learning.

We aim to do this as a learning community that encourages children, parents and staff to unfold their potential in a safe, creative and inspiring environment.

We work out of respect for the dignity of each human being and strive to maintain a community where diversity and collaboration are promoted and celebrated. We work out of a wish to be inclusive of all, irrespective of circumstances. Our policies and development plans have been built on these principles.

Our vision is that Ringwood Waldorf School will continue to be a sustainable living community where learning is relevant to the challenges of the present and future, and where young people can develop into capable, confident adults who want to contribute positively to society.

“Our highest endeavour must be to develop free human beings who are able of themselves to impart purpose and direction to their lives. The need for imagination, a sense of truth, and a feeling of responsibility—these three forces are the very nerve of education.”

Dr Rudolf Steiner (1861 - 1925)