Parent Handbook
Everything you need, all in one place.
Whether you're preparing for your child's first day or looking for a term date, lunch menu or uniform information, you'll find it here. We'll keep this page updated throughout the year so the information you need is always easy to find.
Search for More Topics
Uniform Policy
Clothing That Supports Childhood
Ready to Learn. Ready to Explore.
At York Steiner School, there is no traditional school uniform. Instead, we ask children to wear comfortable, practical clothing that allows them to move, create, explore, and learn with confidence.
From climbing trees and tending the garden to painting, woodworking, music, and movement, every school day is hands on. Clothing should never limit curiosity or creativity. By keeping dress simple and functional, children are free to focus on what matters most: learning, friendships, and discovering the world around them.
We also believe that removing the emphasis on fashion labels and trends helps create a calmer, more inclusive school community where every child feels they belong.
Clothing for Creative Learning
Our classrooms are places where children paint, sew, bake, garden, build, and create. While we provide aprons where appropriate, we encourage families to send children in clothes that can occasionally pick up a splash of paint, a little mud, or signs of a wonderfully busy day.
These moments are often the very best evidence that meaningful learning has taken place.
What We Ask Parents to Provide
To help your child enjoy every aspect of school life, we ask that clothing is:
Comfortable and easy to move in.
Suitable for outdoor play in every season.
Durable enough for creative activities where getting messy is part of the experience.
Free from large logos, slogans, or character graphics.
Clearly labelled with your child's name.
A Simple Approach That Puts Children First
Choosing not to have a traditional uniform reflects our wider approach to education. We value individuality without encouraging competition. We believe children feel most comfortable when they are dressed for the day ahead, not for appearance.
It is a small decision that supports a much bigger aim: helping every child feel confident, capable, and ready to engage fully in school life.
Every Day Includes Time Outdoors
Whether children are exploring the gardens, walking in the woods, or simply enjoying fresh air at break time, being outside is part of everyday life at York Steiner School.
Please ensure your child comes prepared with appropriate clothing throughout the year, including:
Waterproof coat and trousers
Wellington boots or sturdy outdoor footwear
Warm layers during colder months
Sun hat during warmer weather
Waterproof gloves and hat in winter where appropriate
We believe there is no such thing as bad weather, only clothing that isn't quite ready for it.
Helpful Reminder
Please label everything. Coats, jumpers, waterproofs, shoes, lunch boxes, and bags all have an uncanny ability to embark on adventures of their own. A name label makes them much more likely to find their way home.
York Steiner School is tucked away in a peaceful setting just outside York, making it easy to reach while still feeling connected to nature. Whether you're walking, cycling, driving, or using public transport, we ask all families to help us keep arrival and collection times safe, calm, and considerate for everyone.
Travel & Parking
Arriving Safely Together
Public Transport
York Steiner School is served by local bus routes, making it accessible for families travelling from York and the surrounding villages.
If you're considering joining the school and would like advice on the best transport options from your area, our Admissions Team will be happy to help.
By Car
Free parking is available on site for parents dropping off and collecting children.
Please drive slowly as you enter the school grounds and be aware that children, families, and staff may be walking between buildings and across the car park. During busy periods, we kindly ask everyone to park thoughtfully and follow any guidance from staff.
A few extra moments of patience help create a safer and more relaxed start and end to the school day.
Keeping Everyone Safe
The school grounds are shared by children of all ages throughout the day.
To help us keep everyone safe, we ask that families:
Drive slowly while on school grounds.
Park only in designated spaces.
Hold younger children's hands in the car park.
Keep entrances and access routes clear.
Be considerate of our neighbours when parking nearby.
Together, these small acts help create a welcoming environment for everyone.
Walking & Cycling
Many of our families choose to walk or cycle to school whenever possible.
There is cycle parking available on site, and we encourage active travel as a healthy and sustainable way to begin the day. Children who arrive on foot or by bike often enjoy the opportunity to connect with friends and nature before lessons begin.
Need Help Finding Us?
York Steiner School
Danesmead
Fulford Cross
York YO10 4PB
If you're visiting for the first time, our Admissions Team will be happy to answer any questions before your journey.
