SEVEN FIELDS OF PRACTICE
An introduction to the Seven Fields of Practice
Practically applied principles, known as the Seven Fields of Practice, underpin PSTE and guide each student’s journey
Together, the Seven Fields of Practice form an educational continuum that helps to structure the student journey. The Seven Fields of Practice are subject to research up to Master’s degree and PhD level, and inform staff training across the Trust.
The Seven Fields of Practice contribute to Ruskin Mill Trust’s vision that each individual has the potential to shape their own future through experiencing meaningful relationships with universe, earth and people.
1. Genius Loci
2. Practical Skills
3. Biodynamic Ecology
4. Therapeutic Education
5. Holistic Support and Care
6. Holistic Medicine
7. Transformative Leadership
genius loci, field 1
Genius Loci works holistically with local geography, flora, fauna, and the history of human activity. It does this to develop a coherent curriculum that recognises the heritage and uniqueness of each locality, whilst cultivating a sense of intimacy and connectedness to place, people and educational purpose.
practical skills, field 2
Practical Skills, founded on craft and land-based activities, is designed to support and enhance students’ cognitive, emotional and physical development, and embed functional skills. Practical Skills provides an embodied educational experience by transforming the raw materials into items valued in the wider world, for example, food, clothes, furniture, cutlery.
biodynamic ecology, field 3
Biodynamic Ecology recognises that every farm and garden is an integrated dynamic organism that is part of a wider ecology and universe on many levels. Our seed-to-table curriculum invites students to engage with the many relationships and developmental experiences of a working farm, whilst celebrating nature’s rhythms and seasons.
therapeutic education, field 4
Practical Skills Therapeutic Education is underpinned by Rudolf Steiner’s developmental model of human life and sensory integration. Missed developmental stages can be identified and a curriculum developed to provide opportunities for learners to re-step any missed stages that have become barriers to learning and progress.
holistic support and care, field 5
Holistic Support and Care stands behind our 24-hour educational curriculum, offering students the opportunity to learn everyday living skills beyond education and work. These skills are then woven back into the daytime curriculum. Learner growth and development are assisted by the creation of supportive environments and opportunities.
holistic medicine, field 6
Holistic therapies are offered to support health and wellbeing. At the heart of this field is the pupil/student study. The study is a collaborative practice between a multi-disciplinary team of practitioners, support staff, doctors and nurses, which aims to assess learner needs.
transformative leadership, field 7
Ruskin Mill Trust works to assist and support students and pupils in recognising their potential. This is brought to expression through their self-generated conscious action, the ability to apply personal initiative from the motivation to contribute positively to the world.
