School building completed

The completion recently of a new school building at the Kildare Steiner School at Gormanstown is another milestone in the school's development. This building will be the new home for the Main School (classes 1-6).



The two classroom project, which began in June 2006, was overseen by Aidan Harney, a parent in the school. The contractor was ICF Build Ireland, Akip, Rathdowney, Co Laois and the build was managed by Joe Gilfoyle. The funding for the facility was raised by the parents.

The building is state of the art with such features as underfloor heating, high levels of insulation and a heat recovery ventilation system. Each of the classrooms has double doors leading outside and a kitchenette.

The next project will be a new building for the kindergarten.

The Kildare Steiner School school caters for children from three-and-ahalf to 12 years, or kindergarten to class six. The current roll is 45 students.

The school was moved to this site three years ago from Dunshane, beginning in a prefab Main School. Since then a Kindergarten has been added, as have playgrounds for the Kindergarten and the Main School. The site was also enhanced by the addition of an orchard where each family in the school has planted a fruit tree.

The Kildare Steiner School was founded in 1987 and uses the educational approach developed by Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925). It is one of 900 or more such schools internationally. Steiner or Waldorf schools are co-educational schools with pupils coming from all denominations. A great awareness of the physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual processes at work in the development of the growing child is an essential element in Steiner education.

Contemporary life puts children under increasing pressure to grow up as quickly as possible. The Kildare Steiner School, however, takes an unhurried approach to childhood by providing a safe and secure environment in a fragmented world.

Enrolment for next year is taking place. Further information can be had by writing to us at Rathargid, Gormanstown, Kilcullen, Co Kildare; telephone +353 (0)45 401919; or Email.

Helen O'Connor Nolan.