Now enrolling, please call 028 9042 8029 or email info@holywood-steiner.co.uk to arrange a walk-through.
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
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.
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.
Local musician, Nathan Connolly and local actress, Sarah Green, popped in to see the exciting new developments in our Music Department, with Music Teacher, Emily Dalzell.
Class 4 & 5 had a wonderful day at Mount Stewart, enjoying fire lighting, toasting marshmallows, and creating beautiful mandalas from natural materials. They also gained a fascinating insight into native animals and their uses, guided brilliantly by Rachel. More memories made!
Our Steiner Team of First Aiders have recently updated their training so they can help keep our school community safe and healthy. Thank you to everyone who attended.
Our Class 5 students crafted this magical creature entirely by hand, using a variety of skills taught in woodwork class. Through whittling, sawing, hammering & painting we witnessed their creativity come alive with hands-on learning which develops useful life skills and can lead to exciting careers in the trades, design, or creative arts. Simply magic.
Upper School tested their Michaelmas courage in the liminal space between land and sea this year. Some surfed the crests of their waves, while others paddled barefoot from one beach to another.
We are delighted to open our doors once again for local families to experience our holistic approach to education through an Open Week in June, including a special Open Day dedicated to Early Years. For more information, or to book a visit, please contact info@holywood-steiner.co.uk or call 02890428029
We are delighted to offer additional services to our school community to help with stress and anxiety via Nikki McMillen. Please get in touch directly with Nikki if you’re interested in learning more.
We are pleased to offer Creative Play Therapy sessions via Jemma Wemyss. Please contact Jemma directly for more information.