Waldorf education is based on the anthroposophical writings and lectures of Rudolf Steiner, nineteenth century Austrian born philosopher. The first Waldorf school was established in 1919 in Germany, founded by Rudolf Steiner.

The central core of Waldorf education is to nurture a creative and unhurried learning environment where children can find the joy in learning and experience the richness of childhood rather than be confined to a rigid, exam-led timetable. The curriculum itself is a flexible set of pedagogical guidelines, founded on Steiner’s principles, which take account of the whole child. They give equal attention to the physical, emotional, intellectual, cultural and spiritual needs of each pupil and are designed to work in harmony with the different phases of the child’s development. The core subjects of the curriculum are taught in thematic blocks and all lessons include a balance of artistic, practical and intellectual content. Whole class, mixed ability teaching is the norm.

Steiner education has proved itself adaptable. More than 80 years after the first Steiner school was started in central Europe, this education continues to inspire people from all walks of life and in all parts of the world. Steiner schools have a reputation for producing well-rounded and balanced human beings who are able to cope with the demands of a fast-changing and uncertain world. Steiner graduates are highly sought-after in further education and work place for their unjaded interest in the world and their resourcefulness. Hundreds of Steiner schools have been established and currently flourish around the world, from Namibia to Nepal to Peru.

Extract from www.steinerwaldorf.org

To find out more, please go to:
www.whywaldorfworks.org