Fossil Bay Primary School
A Different Kind of Education
At Fossil Bay School, we’re raising the kind of young people the world needs now more than ever — grounded, curious, and resilient thinkers, ready to meet a changing world with courage and creativity.
Our education is academically rich, but it goes far beyond the classroom. Rooted in the wisdom of Steiner education and deeply connected to nature and community, Fossil Bay offers a learning journey that nurtures the whole child — head, heart, and hands.
The best way to experience Fossil Bay is to visit. Book a tour today and see what makes our school special.
Why Families Choose Fossil Bay:
Small Class Sizes: Every child is seen and supported. With fewer than 18 children in a class, teachers can give personalised attention and create space for hands-on, meaningful learning.
Screen-Free Childhood: We give children what they really need in their early years: time for imagination, play, creativity, and human connection. Technology comes later, when it truly serves learning.
An Unhurried Approach: Childhood is not a race. We introduce formal academics at age 6, giving children space to play and explore. This gentle pace builds a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning, without pressure or competition.
Inspired Teaching: Learning at Fossil Bay is alive. Subjects are woven through music, art, movement, storytelling, and the outdoors, sparking curiosity and resilience.
Deep Connection with Nature: Nestled in a semi-rural valley close to the beach, Fossil Bay is a school in and of nature. Time outdoors builds wellbeing, joy, and a lasting care for the environment.
A Strong Sense of Belonging: Our mixed-age classes and close-knit community feel like family. Children learn to collaborate, care for one another, and grow together.
A Place to Grow Up Free: Waiheke offers a rare gift: a safe, beautiful place where children can still be children. Our school reflects that spirit.
Minimal Testing, Meaningful Learning: We believe in deep learning, not constant exams. Teachers observe progress closely while cultivating confidence, collaboration, and a love of learning.
Our Curriculum
The Steiner curriculum is designed to meet each stage of a child’s development, nurturing them intellectually, emotionally, and physically. At Fossil Bay, children learn through:
Academic study woven with creativity — sciences, languages, maths, and literacy taught through story, art, and movement.
Connection to community and culture — celebrating te ao Māori, music, drama, and seasonal rhythms.
Learning with nature — our island setting offers a living classroom where children practice kaitiakitanga/guardianship.
The result is confident, well-rounded young people who know themselves, care for others, and are prepared for whatever lies ahead.
What Parents Say
“If you’re considering Fossil Bay School, I would say, definitely do it!I don’t think you could ever regret it. The children are in the most supportive environment, and as a family you find yourself surrounded by this beautiful community. There’s such a willingness to help one another, and that sense of connection has been so important for us.”
Come and see Fossil Bay for yourself!
We’d love to welcome you, show you our learning spaces, and introduce you to our teachers.