If you had asked me seven years ago what I wanted most for my daughter as she grew into adulthood, I would have said: A deep connection to herself and her emotions. I hoped she would learn to hold space for others with kindness, feel a sense of belonging in her community, and carry happiness at her core. What I didn’t realise then was how profoundly her schooling would shape that journey, and mine.

I hadn’t given much thought to the specifics of her educational pathway until she was born. It sounds silly now, because of course education is a major consideration. But it was my partner, with her background in early childhood education, who really introduced me to the Steiner philosophy. I had heard of Waldorf schooling before, not realising it was the same as Steiner education. Some dear friends from South Australia, where I grew up, had shared stories of their Waldorf education. Their emotional intelligence, creativity, resilience, and heart-centered way of living always stood out to me. Compared to my own upbringing, they seemed to carry a quiet wisdom and openness that I deeply admired.

They spoke of their school rituals, festivals, and friendships with such reverence, it planted a seed in me. I realised that if I had had the opportunity, Steiner education is what I would have chosen for myself.

Even before Hunter was born, we toured Steiner kindergartens. The warmth, the beauty, the homeliness, it felt like a comforting embrace. We began our journey at Little Sophia Kindergarten’s playgroup. I was working and couldn’t attend, but my partner would share stories of Hunter’s interactions. I remember hearing about her setting up story time at home with silks and wooden toys. I hadn’t seen the playgroup in action, but it was clear she was deeply connected to what she was experiencing. Her imitation was beautiful, her reverence for the space she was part of, profound. 

As she moved through kindergarten we cherished being a part of festivals, working bees and parent nights. Everything felt and feels so wholesome, not distracted by technology, or ideals of society but actual connection. It gave us a glimpse into the precious space that Hunter entered 3 days a week. It was the transition report from Hunter's teacher that really hit my heart. How beautifully she was seen, observed and cared for. How wonderfully she was loved, held and nurtured. How much she was seen, and how that growth was witnessed, embraced and unfolded to us. The true essence of her being was captured.

Now, as we near the end of Class One, I see how true that connection runs. Steiner education has given Hunter a place to belong, emotionally, spiritually and academically. I never wanted her unique soul and personality to be lost in a conventional school setting. And while I’ve had to surrender many fears along the way, fears rooted in my own upbringing and the expectations placed on me, I’ve come to trust the process. 

One of the hardest things to accept was the delayed approach to reading and writing. Not because I wanted Hunter to be writing novels at five, but because I was scared - what if she didn’t learn? But recently, a fellow parent shared something that shifted my perspective: When children are emotionally ready, they become hungry to learn. And when they do, the letters and numbers come alive with meaning. By Class Three, most children are at the same academic level, but those early years filled with wonder, imagination, and play lay a foundation for lifelong curiosity. I feel that every step Hunter has taken in Steiner education has such distinct reasoning and meaning. I've learnt to be curious with a willingness to listen how her needs and growth is being met every step of the way. 

What greater gift can we give our children than a true understanding of their inner hearts?

When I first moved to Melbourne, we often visited the Children’s Farm, an oasis in the city. That same peace greets me every time I walk into Sophia Mundi, the energy of the land, it feels sacred. It’s like being in the country yet still connected to the rhythm of the city. We are so lucky to be here.

Hunter’s schooling has, in many ways, become an education for me too. It’s been a re-learning, a healing. I’ve found my own sense of belonging in the community, especially through crafting, which brings me immense joy. I realise now, we belonged in this space a long time ago.

And as I look at my friends who were raised in Steiner education, I see how they’ve flourished. They’ve taken control of their lives, made meaningful impacts in their careers, and embraced life with open hearts. That’s the kind of future I envision for Hunter, not just success, but a lifelong foundation of rhythm, self-awareness and adventure! 

Steiner education isn’t just a schooling philosophy; it’s a way of being. A way to live and grow as your unique self. And for our family, it’s been a path home.

- Candy Weis 

(Class 1 Parent)