Why do families choose Stein? What experiences shape their children’s time at school? And what makes a school community that lasts long after graduation? In this new series of interviews, people from the Steiner community have their say and share their very personal Stein stories as well as their views on life here at Schloss Stein.
Nicola Reichelt kicks things off. Her family has been closely connected to Stein for many years: Her son Kilian completed his Abitur here in 2021, her daughter Valentina is currently about to reach this milestone, and her husband Oliver is also an Altsteiner, graduating in 1988, as is her best friend. From this special proximity, she looks back on a school that has accompanied her family for generations.
Is there a memory of Stein that has stayed with you to this day?
“I would say my first time in Steiner is still particularly memorable to this day. It must have been more than 25 years ago. Back then, I was here with my husband for the Altstein reunion. I was impressed by how naturally everyone knew each other and how warmly teachers and students treated each other. Stein seemed like one big family to me.”
What would your children answer if you asked them what Stein means to them?
“I think they would say that Stein is like a second family to them. A place they will always return to and where they have made many valuable friendships and contacts. A place that has shaped them and that plays an important role in their future lives.”
Many families are faced with the decision of which school is right for their child at some point. What would you draw parents’ attention to in particular when making this choice?
“I would particularly like to draw parents’ attention to how familiar the whole atmosphere is at Steiner and how close the relationship is between teachers, pupils and educators. Particularly noteworthy are the small classes in which every student gets the attention they need. The wide range of sports and leisure activities also sets Stein apart from many other schools.”
What would your children answer if you asked them what Stein means to them?
“I think they would say that Stein is like a second family to them. A place they will always return to and where they have made many valuable friendships and contacts. A place that has shaped them and that plays an important role in their future lives.”
Kilian Reichelt has already told us in the blog article “Stein in history: the 2020-2024 school leavers” described his view of his Stone Age. A look back at very special years that radiate life and authenticity and make it clear how strong the bond with Stein still is today.
Finally, we would like to thank Nicola and Olli Reichelt for their trust and years of close collaboration. In a few weeks’ time, Valentina will also hold her Abitur certificate in her hands and go her own way. We very much hope to be able to greet and welcome you all at our events in the future, and definitely at the 2026 graduation ceremony!
