BRISTOL Steiner School is opening for the new academic year after what’s been described as an ‘extraordinary’ rescue effort.
The independent school was facing closure after half a century when it went into administration in December 2023 but parents and supporters raised nearly £1 million in loans and donations to save it.
Their work to bring in funds and create a transformation plan enabled the school in Redland Hill, which offers a holistic education, to exit administration this summer.
Lawyer Gareth Hegarty, who led the exit on behalf of the school’s Parents, Teachers and Friends Association (PTFA) said it was a big achievement at a time when challenging financial circumstances were forcing other schools to shut.
“A solvent exit from administration is truly extraordinary and is testament to the efforts of the local community to bring this school back from the brink. This is a great result for the school, its pupils and the local area,” he said.
Lindsay Berresford, chair of the PTFA and a former pupil, said: “This school has been a cornerstone of our community for 50 years. To see it thrive once again, thanks to the collective efforts of so many dedicated individuals, is truly heart-warming.”
The rescue means that the 80 pupils aged four to 11 can return to their classrooms and the jobs of more than 20 staff have been saved. The school hopes in future to expand to include a middle school, for children aged 11 to 14.
Rowena Kennedy-Epstein, co-chair of trustees, said new systems of financial checks and balances would ensure long-term sustainability and stability. Renovations are also being carried out to the building and garden spaces, underscore the school’s dedication to providing a stimulating and inspiring learning environment.
“We know from speaking to parents across the city that an education that builds wellbeing and creativity alongside academic skills is badly needed in Bristol, and we are working to make it more accessible than ever,” Rowena said.
“We have moved to a sliding scale fee system and are pleased to now offer bursaries to families of African/Caribbean heritage, reflecting our commitment to diversity and accessibility.”
The school has welcomed four new trustees committed to its future vision and has appointed a new headteacher, Angela Cogan, who has decades of experience as an early years and primary school teacher and leader, including three years as an Ofsted inspector.
Angela said: “I feel privileged to be part of such an exciting time. The Steiner approach is very close to my heart, and I aim to safeguard everything we hold dear while ensuring children make the best progress possible.”
Bristol Steiner School, founded in 1974, is part of a worldwide network of Steiner-Waldorf schools known for their focuson holistic development, nurturing creativity, critical thinking and a love for learning.
Alumni, current students, past and present parents, and teachers celebrated the school’s rich history and its bright future at their summer fair.
One of the new trustees, Siobhan Allison, said: “Bristol Steiner School has always been more than just a place of learning; it’s a family. Our new trustees are committed to preserving this legacy while driving forward with a sustainable vision for the future.”
Rilke Hayne, the granddaughter of the founder, added: “It’s incredibly moving to see the spirit of the school reignited by the very community it serves. My children are now part of this legacy, and I couldn’t be prouder.”