Waldorf Education is based on the educational philosophy of Rudolf Steiner. It is shared by over 900 Waldorf Schools throughout the world.  We invite you to learn more (link here) about Waldorf Education.

Grade School Philosophy

“Waldorf education stresses discipline and rigorous teaching methods.  It is not a free and easy education.  It may be artistic, but it requires a tremendous discipline.  And by disciplining the will, through the curriculum in the classroom, children become prepared for life.”
– Rene Querido, Waldorf Educator

The second stage of childhood, from the age of six or seven until around the age of 14, is a time when feelings are of primary importance to children. Through their responses to experience, they begin to understand the world. The intense physical activity of the earlier years is gradually overtaken by a growing inwardness.

In each grade a full spectrum of academic subjects is taught not only intellectually but experientially and artistically as well. The children's journey of learning and self-discovery is guided by Waldorf-trained teachers who consider each child's abilities and challenges individually, and educate to meet the different developmental needs and readiness of each year of childhood and early adolescence.  

Grade School Day

A rhythmic, structured day remains paramount in the grade school years. In the early grades, the day begins with invigorating movement—perhaps skipping or clapping, and reciting together. The children are then ready to be fully present for the "main lesson"—an extended period of up to two hours when students are asked to do their most concentrated thinking. Main lesson subjects (e.g. history, geography, math, physics) last for three to four weeks, and then a new subject is introduced.

Mid-morning to lunch is dedicated to special-subject classes, taught in a way that engages the whole child. These might include Japanese, music, drawing, watercolor painting, singing and instrumental music. These lessons are either once or twice a week on a consistent schedule that lasts the whole year. These subjects support the subject of the main lesson whenever possible.

The afternoon is the time for energetic movement and busy hands. Woodwork, handwork (knitting, sewing, etc.), clay modeling, and movement education act as a balance to the intense concentration and thinking of the morning.

Throughout the day, the activities and approaches to subjects alternate between an inner and an outward focus. It is an organic rhythm, much like breathing, which allows learning to stir the children’s hearts and inspire their imaginations.

Curriculum

Main Campus

The main school campus is located on the corner of Maku’u Drive & 26^th Street in Hawaiian Paradise Park . The school day is from 8:00 to 2:30 ( 12:30 on Fridays). Aftercare may be available until 5:30 pm .