A STOURBRIDGE school is opening its doors for visitors to learn about an alternative to mainstream SATs based education.

The Elmfield Rudolf Steiner School, Love Lane, teaches pupils GCSE subjects while encouraging respect and creativity plus flexible and objective thinking.

The school takes children aged from three to 17, providing a broad base of skills in subjects ranging from baking and poetry through to mythology, farming and geography.

The campus is divided into three sections, Early Years (ages three to seven), Lower School (seven to 14) and Upper School (14 to 17) covering practical and academic subjects.

The school, which has places for 320 pupils and accepts new students from all age groups, also encourages creativity and culture with lessons on religion, regular seasonal festivals, music and poetry.

Youngsters are encouraged to make music as members of the school's choir and orchestra as well as enjoying performances from visiting artists.

Languages French and German are taught from age six and regular class exchanges are held with other European Steiner Waldorf schools.

The Stourbridge school was established in 1946 and has been regularly upgraded with new buildings, a gymnasium, science laboratory, hall for music, dance and movement, and facilities for information technology.

The buildings are set in grounds which include playing fields and a multi-purpose hardcourt.

It is one of 780 Steiner Waldorf schools world-wide and although outside the state sector is regularly inspected by OFSTED.

Elmfield will be open for visitors to talk with teachers, parents and pupils on Saturday March 1 starting at 2pm.

For more information ring 01384 394633, email info@elmfield.com or visit www.elmfield.com.