Exploring the Unique Educational Approach at Ringwood Waldorf School

At Ringwood Waldorf School, the educational philosophy is distinctively different from traditional state education in the UK and is much more akin to the educational style and set up across Europe. This blog post delves into some of the key aspects that set the school apart, following a recent discussion with School Lead Geli Patrick.

Child-Centric Curriculum

What’s the fundamental difference between the education techniques in a Waldorf school compared to others?

One of the fundamental differences at Ringwood Waldorf School is its child-centric curriculum. Unlike traditional schools that follow the national curriculum, Waldorf education is based on child development stages, right through to late teens. This approach allows for a more personalised learning experience where children develop at their own pace. Formal assessments are minimal, focusing instead on outcome-based differentiation. This means that while all children are exposed to the same imaginative content, the work they produce is tailored to their individual developmental stages. The Waldorf curriculum is based on Head, Hand and Heart with a practical element to every piece of learning. For example, in the school, Maths may be taught while doing cross-stitch, as designing a geometric pattern is an example of the practical application of fractions, with students needing to count the stitches, and find halves and quarters to ensure symmetry. Another example may be juggling beanbags while learning times tables, alongside the academic teaching of learning about compound fractions for example.

Continuous and Nurturing Environment

The school offers a continuous educational journey from early childhood up to 18-19 years of age. This continuity provides a stable and nurturing environment, reducing the disruptions that come with changing schools. This consistent community helps children work through personal struggles and develop a strong sense of belonging, which in turn frees up energy for learning and exploring the world. 

Developmentally Aligned Teaching

The curriculum is carefully designed to align with the psychological, intellectual, social, and emotional stages of child development. For example, in class six, students study Roman history, which is well-documented and structured, mirroring the students’ developmental need for facts and figures. This method helps students understand their place in the world through relatable historical narratives.

Technology and Mobile Phones

There is a lot of focus on technology and mobiles in education in the news agenda currently. What is RWS’ take on mobiles and technology in the classroom and why?

Ringwood Waldorf School has a unique stance on technology and mobile phones. Mobile phones are not allowed during school hours, and digital technology is introduced gradually. The focus in the early years is on physical and social development, with technology being used primarily as a learning support tool for older students. This approach ensures that children develop essential social skills and physical activity habits before becoming immersed in digital learning. Technology is used in classrooms when the children are aged 13 onwards and the school teaches coding. But this again comes later as children are older so they can cope with it better developmentally.

Individuality and Community

Students at Ringwood Waldorf School call their teachers by their first names and do not wear uniforms – why is this?

 This practice fosters a sense of individuality and equality, encouraging students to grow as unique individuals within a supportive community. The absence of uniforms also eliminates social pressures related to clothing, allowing students to focus more on their personal development and learning. Geli adds: “We do have a dress code where no slogans or large brands are allowed. Our ethos is for children to wear what is comfortable and practical for what they will be learning that day.”

Flexible and Holistic Timetable

The school day is very different from a state education school with its timings – particularly in the lower school. Why is this?

The school day is structured to support different aspects of child development. The morning sessions are dedicated to main lessons that require high energy and focus, while the afternoons are reserved for artistic and movement activities. This rhythm ensures that students are not academically challenged in the afternoons, allowing for a balanced and holistic educational experience. When the children are in the lower school, the week is based with one longer day and 4 shorter ones. As the years develop and the students’ capacity and energy changes, the week also changes. In class 2, there are two longer days, in class 3, 3 longer and so on. Thursday afternoon continues finishing at 1pm until students are in upper school. We work hard but there is plenty of play time and social time too.

Integrative Education Programme

What about qualifications?

Pupils take English and Maths GCSE and up until now have worked on a 4-year diploma Ringwood Waldorf qualification, more akin to a Baccalaureate across the four years of upper school (classes 9-12), where the children are aged 15-18. Starting this year, the school is rolling out an Integrative Education Programme from The Crossfield Institute, which offers qualifications regulated by Ofqual. This programme includes core units like creative thinking skills, global awareness, and social competency, along with subjects like natural sciences, arts, and crafts. This flexible and comprehensive qualification system is designed to keep students engaged in all subjects, providing a well-rounded education and the qualifications are L2 (GSCE) and L3 (A level).

Ringwood Waldorf School’s unique approach to education, focusing on child development, continuity, and individuality, offers a refreshing alternative to traditional state education. By aligning the curriculum with developmental stages and minimising the use of technology in early years, the school ensures that students grow into well-rounded individuals ready to face the world.

We’d love to tell you more and show you around. Reach out to us if you have any questions at all or book onto our next open day on 13^th of November by emailing mail@ringwoodwaldorfschool.org.uk or ringing 01425 472664.