Waldorf pedagogy is a pedagogical approach founded on Rudolf Steiner's anthroposophical view of the human being, developed at the first Waldorf school in Stuttgart in 1919. The pedagogy emphasises artistic and practical activities as a complement to theoretical subjects.
Characteristics
The Waldorf curriculum follows a twelve-year rhythm in which the content of each school year is adapted to the pupil's developmental phase. Grades are usually introduced later than in municipal schools, and teaching makes heavy use of storytelling, handicraft, eurythmy and artistic expression. Teaching materials are often produced by the pupils themselves.
In Sweden
Swedish Waldorf schools are independent schools (friskolor) approved by the Swedish Schools Inspectorate. They follow the Swedish curriculum (Lgr22) and must meet the same knowledge requirements as other compulsory schools, even when the pace and order of subjects differ from traditional teaching.