History

In the early 20th century, Rudolf Steiner, an Austrian scientist and philosopher gave indications for new styles of education based on the natural development of the child and an understanding of the human being.  Principle ideas concerned the three-fold aspects of a human being-- thinking, feeling and will-- and the need to be engaged in a holistic way in all spheres of activity. These seminars were so inspiring that he was requested to lead a group of teachers in Stuttgart, Germany, to create a school based on these principles. Thus the foundations for Waldorf teaching came about. Other lectures courses followed to deepen the insights into the teaching of children and what was required to enable them to grow up to become true individuals with inner strength, intellectual capacity, adaptability, empathy for humanity and environment, sound judgment and will power to put ideals into practice. In short, to prepare them for life in a challenging modern world.

 

The Curriculum

   The Waldorf or Steiner school curriculum is broad and comprehensive, structured to respond to the three developmental phases of childhood: from birth to approximately 6 or 7 years, from 7 to 14 years and from 14 to 18 years. Rudolf Steiner stressed to teachers that the best way to provide meaningful support for the child is to comprehend these phases fully and to bring "age appropriate" content to the children that nourishes healthy growth.

 

The Teacher

The teacher aims to become a worthy authority and role model for the pupil. Commitment, care and positivity foster mutual respect and help to develop self-discipline in the child. A close study of child psychology and child development prepares the teacher to meet the different temperaments and the growth phases of each child. It is of utmost importance that the teacher works imaginatively and is challenged to bring originality, creativity and movement into the lessons. The teacher always strives to see what the child can become as a developing moral being. It is the daily task of the teacher to look beyond the immediate situation while meeting each day with its fresh needs.

 

Waldorf teacher training also aims to develop in the teacher, a constant striving for inner mobility and empathy - essential qualities in all creative teaching. This is one of the cornerstones supporting the Waldorf aproach.Teachers in Waldorf schools are dedicated to generating an inner enthusiasm for learning within every child. They achieve this in a variety of ways. Seemingly dry and academic subjects are presented in a pictorial and dynamic manner. This does away with the need for competitive testing, academic drills, and behavioristic rewards to motivate learning. It allows motivation to arise from within and helps engender the capacity for joyful lifelong learning.