Supportive Education Course

Twelve lectures, Dornach, June–July 1924 (CW 317)

In the summer of 1924, in the final months of his lecturing career, Rudolf Steiner delivered this groundbreaking, foundational course on anthroposophic therapeutic education. Directed at teachers, physicians, carers, and therapists, these twelve lectures weave together spiritual insight, educational practice and compassionate observation, offering a holistic approach to understanding and supporting children with developmental disabilities.

Steiner emphasizes the individuality and inherent dignity of every child, maintaining that effective support must arise from a deep understanding of the relationship between body, soul, and spirit. Alongside his exploration of child development and human nature, he presents detailed case studies, discussing conditions such as epilepsy, intellectual disability, behavioral difficulties, memory disorders, and kleptomania. Throughout, he gives practical indications for educational work, medical support, therapeutic movement, speech exercises, artistic activities, and the cultivation of an appropriate inner attitude on the part of the educator.

A recurring theme is the close connection between education and healing. Steiner calls upon educators to develop powers of observation, empathy, responsibility, and self-knowledge, seeing these qualities as essential for meeting the unique needs of each child.

This expanded edition, based on the revised German text and enriched with extensive supplementary materials, offers an important resource for teachers, physicians, therapists, carers, and anyone interested in human development, inclusive education and the transformative potential of human-centered pedagogy.