THEY started their day with song and then turned their hands to ancient art, puppets and iron smithing.

This was a national teachers’ conference with a difference - one without the trademarks of mainstream teaching conferences - no staged platforms, halls of trade stands and no political jostling.

Steiner teachers from across the UK were holding their national conference at the Ringwood Waldorf School, which was hosting the prestigious event for the first time.

Keynote speakers and best-selling Steiner authors had travelled from across the globe to share ideas and know-how integral to Waldorf Steiner education.

And the 130 Steiner teachers attending the four-day conference also took the opportunity to further develop their skills.

They had a choice from more than ten practical workshops held mornings and afternoons covering areas including green woodworking, chemistry, handcrafts, dance, and using masks in drama.

Evening entertainments included storytelling at the Earthhouse at the Ancient Technology Centre in Cranborne, and Celidh in the school’s new hall.

“This is the major annual conference for Steiner education in the UK, and we are honoured to host it this year,” said Christine Polyblank, press spokesman for the school.

“Steiner teachers see this as part of their career development and eagerly take part in the training workshops. They are looking for meaning and truth in what they do.”
The school in Folly Farm Lane was only able to host the conference following the opening in 2006 of a £720,000 hall complex, thanks in great portion to energetic parental fund-raising and a project manager - a former parent at the school- who offered his time and services as a gift.

It makes Ringwood the only new purpose built Steiner school in the UK. The new complex contains a hall, theatre space, movement and green rooms, kitchen, staff room and administrative offices.

The conference was organised by the Ringwood school in partnership with the Steiner Waldorf Schools Fellowship.

Many thanks to Louise Isaacs of Deep South Media for the lovely photographs.

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We have Introductory mornings at the Ringwood Waldorf School please ring 01425 472664 for dates and to book a place.

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Summer Fair on Saturday June 14th - 10am - 4pm