The writer and environmentalist Annie Dillard once said that “how we spend our days is how we spend our lives.” While the administrators at Trillium Waldorf may not think in exactly those terms, that’s an idea that’s at the core of the school. Yes, learning is about working through the curriculum, acquiring new skills, honing old ones. But being at school should be about living well, too, and Trillium has made that at priority since it was founded in 1996. From day one it was an expression of the community that gave rise to it, begun by a number of families that wanted something better, something maybe a bit more caring for their children. There were 21 students in the first year, and a single grade, though it’s grown since then, mainly because of the community that formed around the school. The current property was supplied by an alumni family, which nicely continues the theme. This is about people teaching children how to find their way in the world, to have fun, to enjoy the company of others, and to live fulfilled lives.
Trillium Waldorf School
Our children both thrive at Trillium Waldorf. My daughter is in grade two and loves every day. Her favourite subjects are handwork, games class and practical arts. My son is in his final kindergarten year and is eagerly waiting to join in the grades. Both children love going to school and always have. The teachers care for them like their own, and I believe the children can really feel that. Our daughter was always very timid and takes a while to give her trust to others. The teachers she’... View full review
The most enjoyable aspect of school for my daughter is visual arts classes which have been taught by a variety of instructors over the years. A wonderful discovery of the colour purple in her SK year was a highlight: she came home one day saying "mom blue and red make purple, look!" and then proceeded to show me the different purple values of the colour wheel. Instead of teaching the children that blue and red make purple, the students discover these colours on their own. Her love for creating b... View full review
My son appreciated the intimacy - at times he longed for a bigger school and a gym and a library- but over time he realized the gifts of the class sizes. He was still nourished and stimulated. He really loved woodworking and the love his woodworking teacher brought to class. He really loved all the art woven into class and subject workbooks. The festivals and celebrations are things we will never forget and create a real community feel. The meaningful interactions and opportunities for leadershi... View full review
