Introduction to Steiner Education

Steiner schools offer a developmentally appropriate, experiential, and academically rigorous approach to education. They integrate the arts in all academic disciplines for children from preschool through twelfth grade to enhance and enrich learning. Steiner education, also referred to as Waldorf, aims to inspire life-long learning in all students and to enable them to fully develop their unique capacities.

Founded in the early 20th century, Steiner education is based on the insights, teachings and principles of education outlined by the world renowned artist, and scientist, Rudolf Steiner. The principles of Steiner education evolve from an understanding of human development that address the needs of the growing child. 

Music, dance and theatre, writing, literature, legends and myths are not simply subjects to be read about and tested. They are experienced. Through these experiences, Steiner students cultivate their intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual capacities to be individuals certain of their paths and to be of service to the world. 

Professors who have taught Steiner students across many academic disciplines and across a wide range of universities —note that Steiner graduates have the ability to integrate thinking; to assimilate information as opposed to memorising isolated facts; to be flexible, creative and willing to take intellectual risks; and are leaders with high ethical and moral standards who take initiative and are passionate to reach their goals. Steiner graduates are highly sought after in higher education.

Teachers in Steiner schools are dedicated to generating an inner enthusiasm for learning within every child. This eliminates the need for competitive testing, academic placement, and rewards to motivate learning and allows motivation to arise from within. It helps engender the capacity for joyful life-long learning.

Steiner education is independent and inclusive. It upholds the principles of freedom in education and engages independent administration locally, continentally and internationally. Steiner education is truly Inspired Learning. 

At Golden Hill we are guided and supported by the Steiner Education of Australia (SEA) network, to create a child orientated and developmentally appropriate approach to curriculum, resources and teaching practice.  The foundations are laid in kindergarten; through spacious provisions of imaginative play and problem solving opportunities.  The focus is on a teaching of natural rhythm and oral language; and the developing of manual dexterity through handcraft.  Young children learn through imitation of their teacher.  This changes at age seven when they are equipped to learn from authority and are ready for formal learning.