"Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel" Socrates ​ New School provides a rigorous, pioneering Steiner Waldorf education built on a foundation of creativity and guided by an understanding of the developing human being; balancing imagination, critical thinking and academic excellence. Our approach to learning enables each child to uncover and nurture the unique gift that they bring to the world, so that when they leave, they have a strong sense of self and purpose in life. ​ We live in a time of unprecedented change. What is innovative today will be obsolete tomorrow. Progress calls for new ideas, fresh perspectives and an abundance of courage and creativity. Through inspiring a love of learning, inner strength and joy, New School nurtures the character and creative intellect of tomorrow’s leaders and change-makers.

Through creating a community that lives by the values we hope to instil within our children, we hope to become an inspiration and resource for other schools and to change the emphasis of education from creating leavers who can slot into today's economy, to young leaders with a sense of purpose and a will to make a positive difference within the world.

We weave environmental responsibility and stewardship into our education and everyday life on our 3.5 acre site, surrounded by an organic farm in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Through extended time outdoors, our children have a deep understanding of the reciprocal relationship we have with nature. We believe that this is imperative if we are to develop a generation who will care for the environment out of love rather than fear of what will happen if they don't. New School holds each child’s wellbeing at its heart.

Research shows that nurturing a strong connection with nature has a positive impact on health and wellbeing. Nature can generate a multitude of positive emotions, such as calmness, joy and creativity as well as supporting concentration and lowering feelings of depression and anxiety. At New School, children grow their own vegetables, enjoy harvesting fruit and berries and learn the therapeutic qualities of the plants in our medicinal herbs gardens. Our growing programme also teaches patience - so important in a world where immediate gratification is too often demanded.

Spending time with animals has a positive impact on children’s happiness and sense of wellbeing. Alongside abundant wildlife on site, a visiting cat and a school dog, we have a partnership with our neighbouring stables, allowing our children to spend time with their horses. Our hope, before long, is to provide a home for rescue rabbits, chickens and a goat on our site.