In the Lower School the children's relationship with the teacher develops from one based on imitation in the Kindergarten, to one based on mutual trust and respect. Boundaries and guidance are vital and the child's sense of security depends on the clarity of the teacher's leadership.

The pupils learn to work together as a class, to help one another, and develop social understanding. Conceptual/intellectual learning starts gently in the Steiner curriculum and gathers pace as the children grow through the Lower School. By class 4 or 5 (10/11 years) the pupils will have covered much the same academic subjects matter and skills as in mainstream schools but from an artistic and experiential perspective.

During Lower School years the pupils develop language/literacy, mathematical and social skills, and the confidence to stand up in front of the class or school and present their work.

Each school day begins with a verse followed by movement, rhythmic activities, singing, recitation, recorder playing and mental arithmetic. These activities are designed to engage the whole person in the day's learning - body and soul as well as mind. Then follows the two-hour Main Lesson through which a single main subject is explored for between three to four weeks, e.g. Greek mythology, English grammar or fractions. Main Lessons are deep immersions in a specific subject from a variety of perspectives. This experience is then left to sink in until the subject re-emerges in a different form later in the curriculum.

Rhythm is used by the teachers as an educational tool in each lesson, day, week and year. Periods of concentration, accompanied by periods of 'expansion' in a different sort of activity - an inner breathing, enables healthy and deep learning.

Engaging the hands and the heart as well as the mind cultivates a real inner enthusiasm for learning, the hallmark of a Steiner Waldorf education.