The IAO currently organizes and supports over forty teacher training courses each year. The main focus of the work lies in further qualifying Waldorf teachers who participate in cycles of courses covering several years. Additionally, the IAO workers advise teachers already employed within Waldorf Schools in such issues as lesson planning, curriculum development and questions arising from school self-administration. By doing this, the IAO seeks to promote the independent existence of Waldorf Schools under the cultural, social and economic conditions of their respective countries. The schools only receive support from the IAO if it is requested by the relevant national organization.