Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools
The Camphill Rudolf Steiner Schools, which are situated on three estates in Royal Deeside, provide curative education for children with special needs ranging in age from 3 to 19 years. A total of 150 co-workers live together with 80 pupils in 11 residential units: co-workers/volunteers share the work that has to be done — teaching, caring, household tasks, gardening, etc. In the traditional Camphill household the child is part of a ‘house community’ which approximates closely to a family environment where there is continuity, consistency of treatment, organisational stability and a sense of personal security. From the foundation of the first Camphill community by Dr Karl König, it has been recognised that all children have strengths and weaknesses and that it is the responsibility of those working in Camphill settings to develop the assets that each child possesses. To that end, an holistic approach is taken to the individual’s physical, psychological,social and spiritual needs. At a time when there is general disquiet at the spiritual bleakness of living in a society preoccupied with short-term and materialistic concerns, Camphill communities make no apology for their celebration of Christian festivals, their dedication to Christian values and translating those values into action.
