Wandsworth pupils in sponsored run for first Steiner school in London

St Michael Steiner school, in Merton Road, caters for children aged three to 14, but hopes to create an “upper school” by September 2012.

The new venture, for pupils aged 14 to 18, will be funded via charity donations and would be the only one of its kind in London.

Françoise Hascoet, parent, said: “The sense of community is very strong at St Michael and dynamism, motivation and enthusiasm from teachers, parents and children alike are definitely not lacking in this wonderful school.

“How dedicated does a child of seven have to be to run the equivalent of 50 football pitches for their school - without even a ball in sight?”

The school, which operates as a charity, bases its education on the Waldorf principles, which are derived from the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner.

The upper school would offer a curriculum based on the study of the physical, soul and spiritual development of teenagers.

Staff say there would be a special emphasis on the resources that London has to offer, such as art, theatre, music, architecture, teaching hospitals and museums.

The first Steiner school was founded more than 80 years ago in central Europe, named after the Austrian philosopher and architect.

More than 800 schools now exist worldwide, each aiming to create an unhurried and creative learning environment.

Teachers hope to give each child a rich experience of childhood education rather than force early specialisation or academic “hot housing”.

Ms Hascoet added: “This education continues to inspire people from all walks of life and in all parts of the world.

“Steiner schools have a reputation for producing well-rounded and balanced human beings who are able to cope with the demands of a fast-changing and uncertain world.

“Steiner graduates are highly sought-after in further education and in the work place for their unjaded interest in the world and their resourcefulness.”