Upper School
Ages 14-16 (Classes 9-10)
Where young people discover who they are
At York Steiner School, we empower young people to develop their powers of independent judgement, awakening intellect, freedom of expression and self-awareness.
Our Upper School students use their powers of reflection and experimentation to build an understanding of what is true. They develop their independent research skills to explore their own interests, supported by specialist teachers who challenge and help them test their understanding.
Here, we support our students to achieve more than qualifications. We provide the pastoral support and intellectual challenge to cultivate capable individuals deeply connected to themselves, each other and the world.
“The School has taught me all I know, has helped me meet a lot of people and has really set me up for the future.” - Upper School Student
Explore Upper School
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![Crossfields Institute Diploma]()
Crossfields Institute Diploma
Students in Upper School study for an OFQUAL-accredited, Level 2, Extended Integrative Education Diploma. This qualification is equivalent to 5-8 GCSEs. Over the two years of study, students benefit from a continuation of the broad and interwoven Steiner Waldorf curriculum, introducing new subjects such as Global Awareness. Assessment is coursework based, with students encouraged to use a range of media to present their work. Assessment also tracks students' development of creative thinking skills and personal and social learning. Specialisms can be developed through a year-long independent research project in year 9, and more focused timetabling in Year 10.
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GCSEs
Upper school students study AQA English Language and Mathematics GCSEs as standard. Arrangements can be made for further GCSEs to be taken, such as English Literature and Combined Science, by arrangement. For students who have spent their entire education at York Steiner School, the GCSEs mark their first formal examinations. Students receive study support and access arrangements as needed. They’re also confident that their examinations are not a test of who they are, but rather an engaging new experience to discover.
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Personal & Social Development
This module aims to encourage and enable students to take responsibility for their own learning and development. As each learner has their own unique challenges, students are supported to develop a deep self-awareness and self control. They learn to identify the aim they need and to ask for it, supporting them to become confident lifelong learners. A focus on social skills comes through teamwork, daily circle time where students share personal insights as well as listen to and debate alternate views on world affairs.
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Independent Research Project
A year long, independent research project in Class 9 helps students develop confidence and skills as independent learners. Students identify their own areas of interest and their in-depth study over time builds project management skills, stamina and gives a sense of completion. Students also grow their understanding of a range of perspectives as each individual project reveals the depths and approaches of their peers. Regular support is given through study lessons, a dedicated project teacher and mentorship from other adults.
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Destinations
Every individual student travels their own journey through education. At York Steiner School, we are equally proud of our academic high flyers, as by those who have made huge progress in their personal development and succeeded simply by completing their studies with us. Destinations of our alumni include local 6th Forms and colleges, specialist art and drama schools, and scholarships to independent school 6th forms nationally and internationally.
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Well-being and pastoral care
Young people aged 14-16 experience huge changes in their lives. At York Steiner School, our priority for our students is that they build resilience to face the world as young adults through a true sense of belonging, grounded confidence and self-sufficiency. Students are held by a Class Guardian, who focuses on their pastoral care and personal and social development. We also have an in-house professional Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA) to support student well-being.
An education with purpose
Our curriculum continues to offer strong academic challenge, while connecting learning to real life.
Students explore science, mathematics, literature, history and languages alongside practical arts, music, drama and crafts. They undertake projects that require research, collaboration and independent thinking, building skills that universities and employers increasingly value.
Learning becomes less about memorising information and more about asking thoughtful questions, solving problems and understanding how ideas connect.
By combining intellectual challenge with creativity and practical experience, students leave school with both knowledge and confidence.
Growing independence
Adolescence is a time of change.
Rather than rushing young people through it, we recognise it as an important stage of development. Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning, develop resilience and build the confidence to express their own ideas.
Teachers act as mentors as well as subject specialists, creating relationships built on trust and mutual respect.
As responsibility grows, so too does self belief.
Learning beyond the classroom
Education continues well beyond the timetable.
School trips, exhibitions and performances, community projects and work based experiences all play an important part in Upper School life.
Students have opportunities to take on leadership roles, contribute to school life and engage with the wider community. These experiences help develop communication, initiative and teamwork alongside academic achievement.
Many students discover talents and interests they never knew they had.
Preparing for life after school
Success looks different for every young person.
Some students continue to university, others choose apprenticeships, specialist training or employment. Whatever path they take, our aim is the same: to help every student leave school with the confidence, resilience and practical skills to thrive.
Employers and universities increasingly look for people who can think independently, communicate clearly, collaborate with others and adapt to change.
These are qualities that are woven throughout a Steiner education.
Ready to explore our Upper School?
The best way to understand Upper School at York Steiner School is to experience it for yourself.
Visit us, meet our students and teachers, and discover how a Steiner education supports young people as they grow into thoughtful, capable and confident adults.
