“Creating what we need from what we have” 

It’s becoming obvious and increasingly critical that all of us look towards building a healthier future in our relationship with the earth. Steiner Education has always had at its core a rich education for craft making. It is not however craft for craft sake, not tradition for tradition’s sake. It’s an urgent need to create what we need from what we have, keeping the wellbeing of the earth at the centre. 

Kindlehill has visioned for the year, coming out of New Zealand, a focus on Necessary Traditions. Traditions which are necessary to move us towards a sustainable healthy future in relationship with the earth, but also necessary for our wellbeing. 

As part of this Kindlehill was pleased and proud to host a basket weaving workshop with Harriet Goodall in the recently completed art space.  

Harriet Goodall is an artist with a stated aim to make art and design that stirs in viewers an awareness of their ancient ties to slow hand making and caring for the earth. She led a group of learners in the process of making baskets which are purposeful and beautiful. The two day event saw the making of backpacks and shoppers all of which were as individual as the hands that made them. 

Here’s what one participant wrote: 

“I’m dropping you a quick note to say a huge ‘Thank You’ for organising the Weaving workshop with Harriet Goodall. The experience was very special for me, as I have wanted to have the opportunity to learn about working with cane since high school. The company of the group was a rare treat in these strange times, and the venue was perfect. Kindlehill allowed us to work in a beautiful environment with access to everything we needed, while maintaining our health and safety measures. Please pass on my appreciation to all concerned.  

Thanks Again”. 

Erica Chaperlin Principal

After extensive experience with Barnardos Australia, Erica joined the teaching profession in 2004, focusing for many years on high school teaching for young people with behavioural issues not able to be in mainstream classes. Erica joined Kindlehill School in 2009. She has a B. Arts ( Hons) (USYD) and a Master of Teaching (UWS).

“Through a profoundly nurturing and rich education of the whole child we help to heal the world and move towards greater kindness and respect – that’s why I am here.”.