As summer’s warmth fades and the golden hues of Autumn emerge, last week we celebrated one of the most meaningful festivals of the year—the Autumn Harvest Festival. This time of year invites us to turn inward, reflecting on the cycles of nature and the strength we cultivate within ourselves to face life’s challenges. In Steiner education, festivals serve as markers of the changing seasons, offering students an opportunity to connect with nature, embrace cultural traditions, and develop a sense of personal and spiritual growth.
At our School, the Harvest Festival holds deep significance. Drawing inspiration from the ancient traditions of Michaelmas, the festival symbolises courage, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness. The image of Michael and the dragon reminds us of the courage required by each of us to overcome personal and collective challenges. As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, we gather as a community to celebrate the abundance of the earth, the fruits of our labor, and the bonds that unite us.
Festivals in Steiner Education are more than just annual events—they help children form meaningful connections with the rhythms of the natural world. They teach us to honour the ebb and flow of the seasons, to appreciate the gifts each time of year brings, and to reflect on the deeper themes of gratitude, courage, and renewal.
This year, we celebrated the Autumn Harvest Festival with a bountiful gathering of nature’s treasures, student performances, and an honouring of our school’s heritage with founders, Lyn McCormick and Susan Perrow sharing stories from our school’s past.
Through traditions such as these, we nurture a sense of wonder, reverence, and community, ensuring that our students carry these experiences with them throughout their lives.
