Steiner schools hold conference

Press, 3 September 1982, Page 5

Steiner schools hold conference

PA Wellington Forty teachers from New Zealand's four Rudolph Steiner schools are holding their first annual conference this week at Lower Hutt. The conference started on Monday and will end today. New Zealand's four Steiner schools, at Lower Hutt, Christchurch. Auckland, and Hastings, had not met previously on a formal basis, said a conference organiser. Mr Paul Denford. He said that while the schools were independent, the conference was a means

of sharing information on lessons; materials, and resources. and ascertaining the educational needs of the New Zealand child. Improved communications between the schools will be discussed and long-term policy. Mr Denford said that the Hastings Steiner school, which had reached seventh form level, would share its experience with the other schools. The Christchurch and Auckland schools intended to cater for postprimary pupils next year. The 40 teachers at the conference are mostly fulltime teachers. With parttime teachers, the Steiner schools have a full complement of about 70 teachers, and about 800 pupils. Rudolph Steiner schools aim to provide a complete education based on the teachings of the early twentieth century Austrian artist, scientist, and philosopher, Dr Rudolph Steiner.