Statement of Philosophy
That education will support the holistic development of the child in their intellectual, emotional, physical and spiritual growth.
That self-directed free play will support children to make sense of their world using natural resources and the environment.
That our programme will emphasise respect, reverence and wonder for nature and for human existence.
That the pedagogy of Rudolf Steiner is holistic and inclusive.
That the teachers in Early Childhood will be worthy of imitation.
In working in partnership with parents/whanau, showing respect and communicating with openess and honesty.
That New Zealand has a unique bicultural heritage and we will honour the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and we will reflect this in our work.
People of all backgrounds and cultures will be welcomed, accepted and respected.
Reviewed October 2018
Rudolf Steiner (Waldorf) Early Childhood Education offers a unique approach to young children’s learning which allows children to fully enjoy and experience each stage of their development in an unhurried way by integrating their heads, hearts and hands - that is, their thinking, feeling and willing.
The emphasis in the early years is not on academic learning but rather on fostering imagination and creativity through the child’s self-directed free play. We strongly believe that young children learn primarily through imitation and through exploring with their senses. The Kindergarten teachers work to provide role models worthy of the children’s imitation. They strive to create a gentle, nurturing environment that protects the children’s senses from over stimulation and allows them to play freely and safely.
Simple resources made from natural materials allow the children to “shape” them with their imaginations. The stories, which are told orally and the songs, rhymes and movement games that are used, provide rich language opportunities and help the child to find a deeper understanding of their own experiences of the world around them.
The daily, weekly and seasonal rhythms provide a sense of security and belonging for the children. Each day flows in a predictable way, as does each week and each year.
We celebrate the seasons through festivals, which help the children and their whanau to find a deeper connection with the rhythms of nature and to build relationships within the Kindergarten community.