For these education movements are 'alternative', and that word used in this sense is not one you would expect to see linked with the Tories. Both systems take a more holistic view of a child's education than traditional schooling - many of their proponents are involved in the Open Eye campaign against the statutory nature of the Early Years Foundation Stage, with its emphasis on goals and outcomes. (Of course, the Tory proposal to 'slim' the EYFS is not completely at odds with this, though it may spring from a very different base.)
However, at primary level, Steiner in particular seems an unlikely recipient of Tory blessing, with its emphasis on nature, movement and music, its mistrust of technology, and its refusal to teach reading until pupils are aged seven.
Shadow children's secretary Michael Gove's visit to a Steiner school obviously made a great impression on him! And state backing for Montessori schools could be a vote winner among middle class parents.
This support for alternative education comes as part of a wider proposal to open up the school system so that a variety of groups can use state cash to set up schools and compete with other providers for pupils. Now that does sound more like a traditional Tory policy.
One year on
Nursery World's series of sell-out conferences continues with 'EYFS: One Year On', in Birmingham on 30 September with a top line-up of speakers. See www.eyfsconference.com for full details.
