Waldorf education was founded in Germany in 1919 by Austrian scientist-philosopher Rudolf Steiner, and has since developed into one of the largest, fastest growing non-sectarian, independent education systems in the world. Waldorf schools are independent of political and cultural affiliation and are universally inclusive; therefore, while being an international education system, schools adapt this alternative education system to the local cultures in which they are located.

One of the main advantages of Waldorf education is that its true basis lies in the importance of following the major developmental stages of the child to provide age appropriate and experiential learning. In order to raise well-rounded human-beings, the whole child – head, heart, and hands – needs to be nurtured and educated. This is why the Waldorf system strives to develop social-emotional intelligence in students, as well as academic ability. Education is a life-long journey, and so it is vital to nurture the child’s innate curiosity, creativity, values, and insatiable thirst for knowledge.

Waldorf education takes an interdisciplinary approach to education, integrating art, academics, ethics, and practical skills. Students are exposed to a large spectrum of knowledge and activities, allowing them to discover their unique interests and capabilities. Because learning is academically rigorous and engaging, there is no need to memorise isolated facts and undergo competitive testing – Waldorf students develop an intrinsic joy and motivation for learning, which is reflected in their life-long accomplishments.

The students are not only prepared to meet standardised academic requirements, but go beyond them by being equipped with skills and qualities vital for the future. While there is no knowing what professions may be in demand in the future, the modern challenges of society will certainly require individuals who are resourceful, confident, level-headed critical thinkers, able to adapt to the ever-changing, complex environment while still preserving a spirit of empathy, tolerance, and collaboration. Waldorf education provides students with a set of transferable skills and the ability to directly engage with the world from numerous points of view.

Michael Mount Waldorf School is an alternative private school situated in Bryanston, Johannesburg catering from 4 months to matric. If you would like to learn more about our school, please fill in the form below and we will be in touch with you shortly with further information.