What Makes for an Outstanding School System?
Finland has developed one of the most successful school systems in the world. What makes the Finnish model so different from most North American schools, and so similar to Waldorf Schools? In both Waldorf education and Finland’s model, students experience a holistic curriculum that includes movement, play, art, world languages and music alongside math, science, reading and writing. Both education models prioritize outdoor learning and play, and minimize high stress, high stakes testing and test prep. The result is an educational model that benefits students’ mental, social-emotional and physical health, where students are joyful, focused, engaged, and academically thriving.
At Richmond Waldorf School, learning is hands-on, developmentally appropriate, and grounded in practical and artistic work. Daily lessons in math, language arts, science, and history are connected to adventurous outdoor field trips, such as the 5th graders study of Botany and their corresponding trip to Spikenard Honeybee Sanctuary in the Blue Ridge Mountains! All grades students also participate in two world languages, choral and instrumental music, hands on projects like woodworking, knitting, and gardening, as well as Movement arts, biking, and sports. By weaving strong academics with outdoor educatoin and play, we prepare our students for the world around us.
Read more about Finland’s educational system and the benefits of a different approach at
https://hechingerreport.org/how-finland-broke-every-rule-and-created-a-top-school-system/.
At Richmond Waldorf School, we recognize that our student’s physical, social and emotional well-being are a key part of their ability to learn and thrive. Our holistic approach to education prioritizes critical thinking, communication, collaboration and creativity to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.
Get to know if the Waldorf approach is right for you! Join an information session or meet with our Enrollment Administrator to learn more about Richmond Waldorf School.
Choosing a school is a very important decision in a family’s life. Our admissions process is designed to give you as much information as you need to make an informed decision about enrolling your children. Whenever possible, we encourage all families to book a visit when considering Richmond Waldorf School. We want to meet you! It is just as important for us to know who you are and what you are looking for in a school, as it is for you to know who we are and what Waldorf education is about.
Valerie Hogan
Enrollment & Marketing Administrator
| 804-377-8024 ext 3
