Peter Bateson, a Camphill Foundation UK & Ireland trustee, recently joined efforts in Romania to explore new ways of advancing social pedagogy and social inclusion. The initiative for this collaboration arose when John and Roxana Byrde, the founders of Casa Rozei in Urlaţi, Romania introduced the idea of creating a therapeutic ‘hub’ during discussions in the summer of 2024. The hub aims to serve not only individuals with special needs but also those facing social exclusion.
Founded in 1991, Casa Rozei emerged to address the urgent needs of children excluded from Romania’s educational system, particularly those in state-run orphanages. Over the years, it has evolved into a cornerstone for supporting individuals with severe learning difficulties and operates under the General Directorship of Social Assistance and Protection in the county of Prahova, with close collaboration between the authorities and their appointed manager, and the independent, non-profit organisation, APISTSAB. (Association for furthering special education, social therapy and biodynamic agriculture in Romania). John and Roxana are trustees of this association with a group of close working colleagues. Together, they have partnered with other organisations to sustain and expand therapeutic endeavours and are committed to embracing innovative models of inclusive social development.
Hosted at Casa Rozei, the initiative was led by John and Roxana Byrde, and brought together educators, carers, and advocates to address challenges and opportunities within this sector. The Camphill Foundation UK & Ireland funded Peter’s attendance and our friends in Romania are very grateful to him for his guidance and contributions throughout the visit.
The working days expanded into much more than just discussions regarding the therapeutic hub – the first two days centred on workshops and discussions in Bucharest with social pedagogy educators, Waldorf practitioners, and members of the Anthroposophical Society. At the Corabia Centre for Curative Education, Peter proposed three priorities for fostering unity and progress:
- Establishing a clear, shared mission statement.
- Strengthen spiritual practices among educators with the help of the book “Towards the Deepening of Waldorf Education”.
- Expanding a network of supporters to bolster fundraising and practical support.
Evening talks at the Casa Rudolf Steiner introduced spiritual and social renewal themes inspired by Karl König, creating a rich tapestry of ideas for participants.
The final days focused on the new therapeutic hub, envisioned as a centre for inclusive social development. It aims to address unmet needs across society, from youth struggling with education to adults seeking support after leaving care systems. Inspired by Karl König’s vision of inclusive, holistic education, this initiative reflects a broader mission: fostering dignity, collaboration, and renewal.
Site visits revealed significant opportunities for revitalising properties like Casa Rozei and Casa Stela, which previously hosted thriving workshops in biodynamic agriculture and crafts. One cornerstone of the project is Casa Samaria, a wooden building poised to become the hub’s headquarters. Named after the Gospel story of the Woman of Samaria, it symbolises breaking barriers and fostering renewal. A team is set to begin renovations, transforming the space into a vibrant centre for community-building and support.
The overall vision of the project aligns with the Camphill ethos of meeting humanity’s broad needs with creativity and care through access to education, fostering inclusive employment, and building community networks, demonstrating the enduring relevance of the Camphill philosophy in addressing modern challenges.
Peter reflects on the visit, “It really was a true celebration, overcoming language barriers and meeting new friends and colleagues to establish lasting ties for the future and uniting the efforts and concerns of a wide group of people involved in the worlds of Waldorf education, social pedagogy, the Anthroposophical Society and new endeavours in inclusive social development.”
The full and detailed account of Peter’s visit to Romania will appear in due course on the website of the Karl König Institute – www.karlkoeniginstitute.org