Steiner wins opt-out from early years curriculum

North London Rudolf Steiner School in Haringey received confirmation from the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF) last week. The school has been granted exemptions from all communication, literacy and language targets, and any goals related to the use of ICT. Exemptions from goals relating to number recognition were rejected on the grounds that the EYFS, which has been in operation for a year, will be able to incorporate the Steiner approach.

Janni Nicol, EYFS spokeswoman for the Steiner Fellowship, said: "We are very pleased as the response shows an understanding that Steiner principles, of not introducing formal education in literacy before the age of seven, conflict with EYFS goals."

A DCSF spokeswoman said: "Providers can apply for exemptions from and modifications of the EYFS learning and development requirements where they can show that their setting is governed by principles relating to the development of young children, which cannot be reconciled with the EYFS."

To date, the DCSF has received 19 applications for exemptions. CYP Now understands one further setting has also been granted some exemptions from the EYFS.