Our Waldorf philosophy
Education today, more than ever, faces the challenge of preparing young people for life in a world that is complex and constantly changing. Waldorf Steiner schools take up this challenge by offering an education that enables young people to become healthy, purposeful and creative adults so they can confidently participate in society in a way that makes a lasting positive impact.
Education from hand to heart to head
Born in the 20th Century by philosopher Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf education is focussed on the careful observation of children, and the understanding of their needs in each stage of development. As a child grows, his or her consciousness changes. This changing consciousness of the child is reflected in the curriculum from year to year. The concept of hand to heart to head is one which can give a picture of the Steiner method: in the Kindergarten years the child learns through what they do; in the Primary years it is the feelings that gives the child inner experience; in High School, the appeal is to the thinking and forming of judgments.
Waldorf education is more than just a different teaching approach – it is an art of teaching, which weaves together a number of vital interconnecting aspects to connect children to both the physical and spiritual dimensions of the world around us.
Highly regarded across the globe, Waldorf education is respected for its ability to develop strong alumni with diverse capabilities who contribute to making the world a better place.
Goals of our education
Strong academic performance
Not too soon, not too late forms part of the Steiner pedagogy. Our lessons are linked to children’s emotional, social, physical and intellectual readiness, and the result is students who develop confidence in their ability, a love of learning and certain determination.
We deepen learning through sustained engagements and promote creative, flexible thinking which serves our students well in solving challenges and becoming confident innovators.
Our alumni have succeeded in a great variety of careers from scientists, academics and engineers to entrepreneurs, musicians and professional sportspeople.
Social and emotional connection
Core to our approach are the values of emotional strength and moral integrity. Our non-competitive environment places a strong emphasis on building lasting relationships and recognising the value others bring.
Being part of a class community that journeys together through the school awakens individual capacities and social awareness. So not only is the individual’s development fostered, but students are also encouraged to develop a genuine regard and respect for humanity, and service to others.
Teaching practical skills
Steiner education prides itself on developing in a child a true will to engage in life. Our educational approach seeks to develop intellectual, artistic and practical skills in an integrated way.
Our style of learning we promote is both active and holistic, seeking to teach children from a very young age how to take care of themselves, others and nature in every capacity.
Integrating home and school life
The importance of working in harmony with parents so that children may experience trust and security is one of our aims, since it is only through the connection of home with school that we can truly support each other’s work.
A proven approach to education
In 1919 Emil Molt, owner of the Waldorf Astoria factory, invited Rudolf Steiner, a scientist and thinker, to establish a school for the children of his employees. Steiner took this opportunity to demonstrate how a curriculum and teaching methods could address the needs of the growing child. Such was the success of this venture that his ideas spread rapidly throughout Europe and have since radiated across the entire world.