Christchurch Rudolf Steiner School is looking to the future with renewed confidence as it continues celebrations marking 50 years of Steiner education in the city.

The Ōpāwa school celebrated its 50th anniversary late last year, but the milestone has continued into 2026 with alumni gatherings, parent education workshops, arts events and the launch of a commemorative book.

A highlight of the celebrations was the launch of ‘The First Fifty Years: 1975-2025 – Extraordinary’ on Saturday 6 June.

Written and compiled by Frances Ritchie, a former kindergarten teacher, long-time teacher and proprietor at the school, the book captures the stories, people and vision that have shaped Christchurch Rudolf Steiner School since 1975.

The school said the anniversary had become more than a reflection on the past, with celebrations bringing a strong sense of momentum, renewal and optimism for the future.

Over the past two years, alumni gatherings have welcomed former students back to reconnect and celebrate the community built over five decades.

Many former students are now returning as parents, which the school said reflected the lasting impact of the education and relationships formed there.

The celebrations will continue later this year when the school’s annual Spring Fair returns on 31 October, alongside the Christchurch Rudolf Steiner School Art Exhibition.

The inaugural art exhibition was held in 2025 and featured work by artists from the alumni, teaching and wider school community.

The school said the Spring Fair and Art Exhibition reflected its commitment to bringing people together through beauty, creativity and human connection, while celebrating the role art and culture play in community life.

Christchurch Rudolf Steiner School has more than 380 pupils from kindergarten to Year 13.

The Steiner Waldorf curriculum is known for its focus on artistic, creative and practical learning, alongside academic development.

The school said it also emphasised hands-on learning, real-world experiences and a low-screen environment designed to support imagination, creativity and healthy child development.

Parent education workshops have also been offered to school families and the wider community, exploring child development, wellbeing and education from a Steiner Waldorf perspective.

The school said one of the strongest themes to emerge from the 50th anniversary celebrations had been the enduring strength of community.

“The first fifty years have provided the foundation. The task now is to continue building together,” the school said.

Copies of ‘Extraordinary’ are available through the Christchurch Rudolf Steiner School website.