Now enrolling, please call 028 9042 8029 or email info@holywood-steiner.co.uk to arrange a walk-through.


Welcome to Holywood Steiner School

 
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Our school was founded in 1975 and is situated on a beautiful campus on the outskirts of Holywood. Since opening our doors, we have been a co-educational, independent and one of the first ‘integrated’ schools in Northern Ireland, welcoming students from ages 3-17.

Holywood Steiner School is immersive, inspiring and creative in the truest sense, as children experience a hands-on, experiential approach to learning.

The school provides a rounded education that inspires children to develop a love of learning, the courage to question, the ability to express their individuality and to make a positive contribution to the world around them.

Recognising that each child is unique, the Waldorf curriculum is designed to be unhurried and age appropriate, using the outdoors, song, music and art, alongside traditional teaching methodologies, to educate and inspire your child.

The Waldorf curriculum provides the time and space for each child to learn and grow at their own pace, allowing them to fully grasp a concept or achieve a skill when they are ready. Our independent school provides a rich, diverse and integrated education, where cooperation takes priority over competition.

We are part of the world’s largest independent school network, with over 1400 schools spanning 75 countries. There are currently 22 Steiner schools in the UK and 6 Steiner schools in Ireland. We are the only one in Northern Ireland and celebrated our 50th year in 2026.

Peter Chambers – Headteacher

 

Why choose our school?

Who is this school “right for”? The answer is; every child. For the child who is “advanced” and moves rapidly through academics, it provides a balance into the opposing realms of their brain – dexterity, spatial dynamics and social-emotional strengths. For the child who struggles with academics, the curriculum allows the space for growth at the student’s own pace without the pressure of being labelled, while inspiring the student to reach their full potential. The Waldorf curriculum, more than anything, provides a balance that helps to nurture a well-rounded student into a happy and successful adult.

 
 

Education Reimagined. Our School on Best of Belfast Podcast.

Our Headteacher Peter Chambers recently talked to the Best of Belfast podcast about our school being an alternative to mainstream education.

In the episode, Peter talked about:

  • How the school has doubled in budget, size and staff since 2020

  • Why most people aren't aware of alternative education in Northern Ireland

  • The power of delaying "sitting at a desk” until 6-years-old

  • Teaching kids how to cook three-course meals, woodworking and a second language

  • Why having smaller class sizes makes a big difference

  • Creating an environment where teachers can actually teach instead of constantly managing poor behaviour

  • Why his pupils call teachers by their first names and don't wear a school uniform

  • His countercultural policies on screens in the classroom

  • And the importance of creating an environment that encourages (and celebrates) failure.

Here’s a small preview of the discussion:

You can watch the full video of the podcast by clicking here or by visiting the Best of Belfast website which can be found here.

Our beautiful school recently enjoyed a celebration evening to mark 50 years of education. Watch the fantastic news coverage below to get a flavour.

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