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Our School
Ringwood Waldorf School, founded in 1974, was born from a deep understanding of how children learn and grow. Through its unique curriculum, the school seamlessly integrates academic knowledge with core human values—self-awareness, creativity, curiosity, critical thinking, and independent thought. This approach not only nurtures intellectual development but also fosters emotional and social growth.
Our students are encouraged to explore their own identities, understand their place in the world, and discover how they can contribute meaningfully to society. By fostering a love of learning and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing world, we prepare them for the future with confidence, resilience, and purpose.
At Ringwood Waldorf, we cultivate curiosity and inspire both academic engagement and creative expression. This holistic education ensures that our students grow into well-rounded, capable individuals, ready to navigate the complexities of life with clarity and conviction.
Ringwood Waldorf School is celebrating 50 years of nurturing creativity, independence, and community. Since its founding, the school has provided a unique, holistic education that fosters emotional, intellectual, and artistic growth. Committed to Waldorf principles, it continues to inspire students to think critically, collaborate, and approach life with purpose and compassion.
Here’s to another 50 years of shaping future generations!
Ringwood Waldorf School was founded in 1974 by Christine Polybank and a group of parents and teachers inspired by the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner. Steiner’s approach, known as Waldorf education, emphasizes a holistic and creative learning environment, aiming to nurture the interrelatedness of the intellectual, emotional, and physical development of each child.
Initially, the school started with just six children. As interest in the Waldorf method grew, so did the school. By the late 1980s, the school moved to its current location on Folly Farm Lane, Ringwood, where it expanded its offerings to include kindergarten through upper school (age 3 to 18). Today it has over 250 pupils and a thriving community.
Without Keir, we wouldn’t have the school we cherish today. His involvement began in 1975 when he enrolled his daughters and quickly became a key figure in its development. As Chair of the Council for many years, Keir’s leadership guided the school through its early growth.
A self-taught architect and builder, Keir secured the planning permission to create a permanent home for the school in 1986. He designed, built, and oversaw the construction of the entire school complex, from Kindergartens to the Hall. His vision, dedication, and craftsmanship have left a lasting legacy we all continue to enjoy.
Today, Ringwood Waldorf School is a thriving community that continues to uphold its founding vision of fostering creativity, independent thought, and a lifelong love of learning. The work the students produce is outstanding and the school today remains committed to providing a holistic Steiner Waldorf education that integrates academics, arts, and social responsibility in a curriculum based on child development.
We recognise that choosing a school is a big decision. We invite you to visit us and learn more about how a Waldorf education at Ringwood Waldorf School can benefit your child.
Address
Ringwood Waldorf School, Folly Farm Lane,
Ashley, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 2NN
Open Term Time
Monday – Friday
8.00 a.m. to 3.30 p.m.
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