The Melbourne Rudolf Steiner School is an independent, co-educational, non-denominational school that accepts students independent of their cultural background. We welcome students of any race, ethnic, or religious background. The school has a student population of about 500- a single stream primary and a double stream secondary school in a combined campus.
The Melbourne Rudolf Steiner School is separate and independent from other Steiner schools. It is an equal opportunity school and does not reject or displace students based on perceived academic potential. At the Melbourne Rudolf Steiner School, we foster artistic endeavors and academic excellence while honoring the child's inner life.
We recognize that the school journey is as important as the destination. We offer a broad, inclusive curriculum designed to meet the stage of life and the particular qualities of the student. The academic subject matter is presented to engage and support the developmental phases of childhood and adolescence to provide sensory, social, and intellectual nourishment. Imagination is an integral part of the learning process and is harnessed in every age group as a learning tool.
A deep respect for self and others is a natural by-product of our inclusive curriculum. Engagement with the natural world is encouraged, as is the acquisition of real-life skills – with expert mentors. Our work lies in assisting children in cultivating clarity of thought, breadth, and balance of feelings, and conscience, and initiative in actions. Emphasis is placed on happy social interactions and strong, dynamic relationships. These all contribute to well-rounded human beings who can capably solve problems and exhibit resilience, responsibility, self-direction, respect, and integrity.
In 2012 our school turned 40. Established in 1972, the Melbourne Rudolf Steiner School was the first Steiner school in Melbourne and began life with a kindergarten class of eleven children. By 1984 we had grown to a full stream, kindergarten to class twelve, school and now continue to offer enrollment to 500 students.
These intentions permeate every aspect of school life – from the buildings and teaching methodology to curriculum content, decision-making, and interactions between people. Our students are introduced to new ideas or knowledge in various ways – aesthetically, intellectually, and experimentally.
Steiner or Waldorf pedagogy nurtures healthy emotional development in children. By allowing the feeling of life to develop and flourish through experiential and academic learning, children will cultivate their impulses of action and initiative.
