FAQs
What is the Main Lesson?
The Main Lesson runs from 8.45 – 11.00 every day. The uninterrupted 2-hour lesson at the beginning of each day is the cornerstone of the Steiner curriculum, when one topic is studied in depth for three to four weeks. The main lesson begins with a routine of poetry, singing and rhythmical exercises to bring about a mood of concentration before pupils settle down to participate in the subject of the Main Lesson.
After discussing the subject material that has been delivered through the narrative that day, the pupils record the ‘story’ in their hand-written and illustrated main lesson books. These main lesson books are treasured by their young authors and remain a testimony to each pupil’s creative interpretation and ownership of the subject.
Pupil Age
4 - 5 years
5 - 6 years
6 - 7 years
7 - 8 years
8 - 9 years
9 - 10 years
10 - 11 years
11 - 12 years
12 - 13 years
13 - 14 years
14 - 15 years
15 - 16 years
Year Group
Reception
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Year 5
Year 6
Year 7
Year 8
Year 9
Year 10
Year 11
Class
Kindergarten
Kindergarten
Class 1
Class 2
Class 3
Class 4
Class 5
Class 6
Class 7
Class 8
Class 9
Class 10
How does the Year Group correspond to the Class in SAF?
The Steiner Academy Frome will provide a seamless transition for one class of pupils to move right through the school together until they reach class 10. The table below maps the State School year to the Steiner School Class.
What is the role of the Class teacher?
From age 6 the children remain with the same Class Teacher who will be responsible for the pastoral care of that group of children and the teaching of the Main Lessons until the pupils move into the Upper School at 14.
What subject lessons will my child have?
The school day is structured to include 2 subject lessons after morning break and 2 subject lessons in the afternoon. Subject lessons include regular practice lessons in English and Maths, as well as eurythmy (a form of movement which will be unique to Steiner schools), Spanish and Mandarin, a wide range of arts, music and crafts, outdoor activities including games and land-work.
What is Eurythmy?
This is a form of movement where different movements and gestures correspond to different sounds or notes. The rhythms and exercises develop concentration, physical co-ordination and social and spatial awareness. It can also be used developmentally and therapeutically to help with learning and behaviour problems. Eurythmy lessons are given throughout the school, from kindergarten to upper school.
Which festivals does the school celebrate?
Seasonal and local festivals play an important part in the life of the school. These festivals help to awaken the child's natural reverence, their awareness of the cycle of the seasons, recognition of the mode appropriate to such occasions, and respect for the spiritual essence that exists in us all. Festivals also provide an opportunity for participation by the whole school community and for the joy in the preparation and anticipation of the celebration itself. (see calendar more detail).
