Waldorf Education is an international, non-denominational movement, originating in Europe in 1919, and was developed on the basis of the philosophy, educational principles and methods of Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian philosopher, scholar and scientist. Since then, the Waldorf movement has spread around the world. Approximately 1000 recognized Waldorf Schools exist in the world today and all of them function independently, although they are interrelated as a growing world wide family of schools.
Waldorf pedagogy is designed to address the whole child; the head (thinking), the heart (feeling), and the hands (doing). Waldorf schools strive to awaken and ennoble capacities, rather than to merely impose intellectual content on the child. Learning becomes an engaging voyage of discovery, both of the world and of oneself. Our children are from a variety of religious and spiritual backgrounds whose families appreciate our non-denominational approach to our "3 R's" - rhythm, ritual and reverence for life.
Curriculum
Waldorf education is distinguished by its curriculum, which is taught in blocks, and is designed to meet the various stages of child development. Waldorf teachers, who spend a number of years with their class 'family', are dedicated to creating a genuine inner enthusiasm for learning, which is essential for success.
Waldorf kindergarten children thrive on free play, circle games and fairy tales. The degree to which children can engage in creative, purposeful play and activities in early years directly influences their concentration, flexibility of thinking and lifelong love of learning.
The curriculum for classes 1-8 compliment the child's lively, non-abstract thinking. It is taught artistically to foster love of learning, and integrate painting, drawing and modelling in beeswax and clay, which are key elements for balanced inner development. History and geography are brought alive through the teaching of biographies of people who have shaped our world. Math and science are presented experientially, so that feeling engages the intellect.
The child is educated with wonder and imagination as a preparation for the thinking, reasoning, and intellectual skills, which are honed in classes 9-12. Upon the completion of the eighth class, the children have a well rounded picture of humankind and the universe. They are able to reach their potential as strong, upright and free thinking young people.
Special Subjects
Eurythmy Eurythmy is a unique form of movement with gestures that correspond to sound. It explores rhyme, meter, story and geometric forms. It also brings poise, co-ordination, self-discipline and social awareness to students.
Music All children, class 1 through 8, play the recorder. In class 4 children take up a stringed instrument. The study of notation leads the older children into four part choir, recorder ensembles and string orchestra.
Languages The study of languages begins orally in class one, and progresses to provide insights and customs of other cultures.
Physical Education Gymnastics and Spatial Dynamics complement playing group games and pentathlon events.
Gardening A connection to nature is cultivated in all classes through gardening activities.
Handwork All childern K - 8 are taught handwork which develops fine manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination. This includes knitting, weaving, hand and machine sewing, and woodwork.
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