The International Froebel Society

Aims and Purposes

• To provide an international forum for the development of the principles of educational theory and practice associated with the child-centred philosophy of Friedrich Froebel

• To establish opportunities internationally for research, discussion and debate on early childhood education

• To study, promote and develop Froebelian theory and practice in early childhood education world wide

• To promote university accredited certificates and diplomas in professional practice in early years education and related topics

• To offer international recognition and accreditation for Froebelian educational practice

• To monitor andevaluate Froebelian educational activity internationally

Origins

The International Froebel Society was formed at a conference in Dresden in October 2002. The active central group includes people mainly from Germany, England, the USA and Ireland who have an academic, professional or practitioner interest in the educational principles and practices promoted by Friedrich Froebel (1782-1852).

The guiding principles which members adhere to are listed here. (See also the Elements of a Froebelian Education at www.froebel.org.uk.)

Committee

The IFS Organising Committee comprises:
Franciska Bayliss (Chair) [UK]
Professor Kevin Brehony [UK]
Dr David Carey [Ireland]
Professor Helmut Heiland [Germany]
Dr Jeanne Keay [UK]
Dr Chris Lloyd [UK]
Professor Karl Neumann [Germany]
Heinrike Schauwecker-Zimmer [Germany]
Brian Tubbert [Ireland]
Dr Peter Weston (President) [UK]

Activities

Activities so far have been the organising of two international conferences.

The first was held at Froebel College, Roehampton University, London, England in July 2004.

The programme of speakers and presentations is attached here.

The outline of a most interesting presentation on ‘The Development of Froebel Education in Kenya and East Africa’ is accessible here.