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Vancouver Waldorf School ACADEMICS & EXTRACURRICULARS
Curriculum
[Show definition of Curriculum]
Curriculum approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Waldorf
Vancouver Waldorf School has a Waldorf approach to Curriculum (as opposed to Traditional, Liberal Arts, Progressive, Montessori, Reggio Emilia approach).
[Show: About Waldorf?]
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their overall curriculum and approach:
Using the Waldorf curriculum, Vancouver Waldorf School transforms education into an art that nurtures the whole child—head, heart, and hands. Our teachers introduce skills, subjects, and concepts in alignment with the child’s physiological, emotional, and spiritual development, ensuring that learning is meaningful and relevant. A multi-sensory approach integrates the arts into every subject, engaging students fully in the learning process rather than focusing solely on intellectual information. In the high school, the curriculum emphasizes the development of creative and independent thinking, with all subjects drawing on students’ capacities for analytical thought and judgment. Our rich curriculum encompasses academic, artistic, and movement-based courses, preparing students to think critically and act creatively in all aspects of their lives.
Approach
| Focus |
|---|
| Arts: Visual arts • Performing arts • Dance • Music |
Pedagogies and subject courses:
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Mathematics
Mathematics approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Vancouver Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Mathematics (as opposed to Traditional Math, Discovery Math approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
At Vancouver Waldorf School, mathematics is taught through a blend of creative thinking and practical application. Early education focuses on developing a strong foundation in basic arithmetic through rhythmical activities and hands-on experiences, such as counting games and movement-based learning. As students progress, they engage with more abstract concepts through real-world applications, such as geometry through art or algebra in relation to music. This approach ensures that students not only understand mathematical concepts but also see their relevance and beauty in the world around them.
Textbooks and supplementary materials:
This information is not currently available.
Calculator policy:
This information is not currently available.
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Early Reading
Early Reading approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Balanced Literacy
Vancouver Waldorf School has a Balanced Literacy approach to Early Reading (as opposed to Phonics-intensive, Whole Language approach).
[Show: About Balanced Literacy?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
Early reading at Vancouver Waldorf School is introduced gradually, respecting each child’s developmental readiness. Stories, songs, and oral storytelling play a significant role in building language skills before formal reading instruction begins. The introduction of letters is often linked to images, stories, and movement, helping children connect with the symbolic meaning of written language. This method fosters a deep love for reading and a solid foundation in literacy.
DIBELS Testing: This school does not use DIBELS testing to assess reading progress.
What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
This information is not currently available.
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Writing
Writing approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Equal balance
Vancouver Waldorf School has an Equal balance approach to Writing (as opposed to Systematic approach, Process approach approach).
[Show: About Equal balance?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
Writing is integrated with the development of fine motor skills and artistic expression. Students begin by learning to form letters through drawing and painting, which naturally leads to the development of handwriting. Writing is also connected to storytelling, allowing students to express themselves creatively while mastering the technical aspects of writing. This approach emphasizes the beauty of written language and its role as a powerful tool for communication.
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Science
Science approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Inquiry
Vancouver Waldorf School has an Inquiry approach to Science (as opposed to Expository, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Inquiry?]Teaching approach:
Science education at Vancouver Waldorf School is rooted in observation and experiential learning. In the early grades, students explore the natural world through hands-on activities, nature walks, and gardening. As they advance, the curriculum introduces more structured scientific inquiry, encouraging students to observe, experiment, and draw conclusions. The approach is interdisciplinary, often linking science with arts and humanities, fostering a holistic understanding of the world.
Treatment of evolution:
Subject Offered Evolution as consensus theory Evolution as one of many equally viable theories Evolution is not taught Topics covered in curriculum:
Subject Offered Biology Chemistry Ecology Geology Meteorology Physics Physiology Zoology Literature
Literature approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Vancouver Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Literature (as opposed to Traditional, Social Justice approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
Literature is woven into the curriculum from the earliest grades, starting with fairy tales, fables, and myths that resonate with children’s developmental stages. As students mature, they explore classical and modern literature, with an emphasis on understanding the human experience and developing empathy. Discussions, dramatic interpretations, and creative writing projects help students engage deeply with the texts, enhancing both their analytical and imaginative skills.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Canadian lit American lit European (continental) lit World (non-Western) lit English lit Ancient lit Social Studies
Social Studies approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Expanding Communities
Vancouver Waldorf School has an Expanding Communities approach to Social Studies (as opposed to Core Knowledge, Thematic approach).
[Show: About Expanding Communities?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
Social studies in the lower grades focus on understanding the world through storytelling and experiential activities. Students learn about different cultures, histories, and geographies by engaging in hands-on projects, festivals, and role-playing activities that bring these subjects to life. The goal is to foster a sense of connection to humanity and the environment, laying the groundwork for more complex studies in later grades.
Humanities and Social Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Vancouver Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Humanities and Social Sciences (as opposed to Perennialism, Pragmatism approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
For older students, humanities and social sciences emphasize critical thinking and independent inquiry. The curriculum includes history, geography, and social studies, often taught in an interdisciplinary manner that encourages connections between past and present, theory and practice. Students engage with complex texts, conduct research, and participate in discussions and debates that hone their analytical skills and deepen their understanding of human society.
Foreign Languages
Foreign Languages approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Equal Balance
Vancouver Waldorf School has an Equal Balance approach to Foreign Languages (as opposed to Audio-Lingual, Communicative approach).
[Show: About Equal Balance?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
Foreign languages are introduced early, with a focus on immersion and cultural appreciation. Students learn through songs, games, and stories, emphasizing listening and speaking skills before moving on to reading and writing. This method helps students internalize the language naturally and fosters a deeper understanding of different cultures.
Language instruction offered in:
Subject Offered Chinese-Cantonese Chinese-Mandarin French German Greek Italian Japanese Hebrew Latin Russian Spanish ESL Fine Arts
Fine Arts approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Creative
Vancouver Waldorf School has a Creative approach to Fine Arts (as opposed to Receptive, Equal Balance approach).
[Show: About Creative?]Program offers:
Subject Offered Acting Dance Drama/Theatre Graphic Design Music Visual Arts Visual studio philosophy:
Expressive Disciplined What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
Fine arts are integral to the Waldorf curriculum, with daily opportunities for artistic expression in drawing, painting, music, and drama. Art is not only a subject but also a method of learning across disciplines. Through the arts, students develop creativity, emotional expression, and aesthetic awareness, which enhances their overall educational experience.
Computers and Technology
Computers and Technology approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Light integration
Vancouver Waldorf School has a Light integration approach to Computers and Technology (as opposed to Heavy integration, Medium integration approach).
[Show: About Light integration?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
In line with Waldorf education philosophy, Vancouver Waldorf School introduces technology in a thoughtful and age-appropriate manner. While the early grades focus on hands-on, experiential learning without screens, technology is gradually introduced into the curriculum in the upper grades through a Cyber Civics course. Technology (e.g. desktop and laptops) is only used as a learning tool more prominently in high school. This ensures that students develop essential digital literacy skills while maintaining a balanced and healthy approach to technology use.
Program covers:
Subject Offered Computer science Robotics Web design Physical Education
What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
Physical education at Vancouver Waldorf School emphasizes movement, rhythm, and games that develop physical coordination, teamwork, and a love for active living. Activities are often linked to cultural traditions and seasonal festivals, reinforcing the connection between physical activity and the broader curriculum. Additionally, outdoor trips at Vancouver Waldorf High School are an exciting and integral component of the curriculum. These trips support the development of practical skills as well as positive character traits in students including respect, responsibility, helpfulness, independence, self-confidence, self-discipline, interpersonal skills, courage and leadership.
Advanced Placement courses
This information is not currently available.Sex and health education
Sex and health education approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: British Columbia curriculum
Vancouver Waldorf School has a British Columbia curriculum approach to Sex and health education (as opposed to Does not follow prrovincialcurriculum approach).
[Show: About British Columbia curriculum?]Approach to sex and health education:
Vancouver Waldorf School has a approach Mostly value-neutral (as opposed to Fairly value-based approach).[Show: About Mostly value-neutral?]What Vancouver Waldorf School says:
This information is not currently available.
Preschool/K Curriculum
[Show definition of Preschool/K Curriculum]
Preschool/K Curriculum approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Waldorf
Vancouver Waldorf School has a Waldorf approach to Preschool/K Curriculum (as opposed to Play-based, Montessori, Reggio Emilia, Academic approach).
[Show: About Waldorf?]
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their preschool/K curriculum approach:
We believe that creative thinking finds its expression in imaginative free play and in this way children develop cognitive, social, physical and linguistic skills for life. We strive to present the children with a world of beauty that nurtures their sense of ease, joy, and peace. The children are not introduced to any formal learning at this stage, rather the children engage in artistic activities such as drawing, painting, sewing, and baking. Each day also incorporates outside play time and a healthy snack, as well as a circle time which is rich with seasonal stories and movement games.
Language
Learn about Vancouver Waldorf School's languages of instruction and enrolment.
Vancouver Waldorf School offers English as the primary language of instruction.
Language of enrolment include: English
Curriculum Pace
[Show definition of Curriculum Pace]
Curriculum Pace approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Standard-enriched
Vancouver Waldorf School has a Standard-enriched approach to Curriculum Pace (as opposed to Accelerated, Student-paced approach).
[Show: About Standard-enriched?]
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their curriculum pace:
Our curriculum is standard-enriched, delving deeply into subjects while integrating arts and experiential learning to broaden students’ educational experiences beyond the provincial norm, ensuring a well-rounded development.
Flexible pacing style
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Subject-streaming (tracking) | |
| Multi-age classrooms as standard | |
| Ability-grouping (in-class) as common | |
| Frequent use of cyber-learning (at-their-own-pace) | |
| Regular guided independent study opportunities | |
| Differentiated assessment |
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their flexible pacing:
This information is not currently available.
Academic Culture
[Show definition of Academic Culture]
Academic Culture approach at Vancouver Waldorf School: Supportive
Vancouver Waldorf School has a Supportive approach to Academic Culture (as opposed to Rigorous approach).
[Show: About Supportive?]
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their academic culture:
Vancouver Waldorf School fosters a supportive academic culture that emphasizes the process of learning over short-term outcomes. We prioritize nurturing a deep, lifelong love of learning and curiosity in our students. While we maintain high academic standards, our focus is on holistic development, encouraging students to engage fully with the material in a way that resonates with their individual developmental stages. This approach ensures that students are supported in their academic journey, with the freedom to explore subjects deeply and meaningfully, fostering both intellectual and personal growth.
Developmental priorities
[Show definition of Developmental priorities]
Primary Developmental Priority: Balanced
Equal emphasis is placed on a balance of priorities: intellectual, emotional, social and physical cultivation.
Secondary Developmental Priority: Spiritual
The goal is to cultivate "individuals with inner resourcefulness, strong faith and respect for God or a higher power."
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their developmental priorities:
Vancouver Waldorf School’s primary developmental priority is balanced growth, ensuring that students develop intellectually, emotionally, socially, and physically in equal measure. We aim to shape well-rounded individuals who are not only academically capable but also emotionally intelligent, socially conscious, and physically active. Our secondary focus is on spiritual development, fostering inner resourcefulness and a deep sense of respect for the world around them. We guide our students to become thoughtful, compassionate, and resilient individuals, equipped with the inner strength and balance needed to navigate life’s challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.
Special needs support
[Show definition of Special needs support]
Vancouver Waldorf School offers No support
Vancouver Waldorf School offers no/limited support for students with learning difficulties or special needs.
A - Forms of Support
Accommodation:
Modification:
Remediation:
B - Environments
Resource Assistance:
Withdrawal Assistance:
Partial Integration:
Full-Time Class:
Special NeedNeed
Forms of SupportA
EnvironmentsB
ADHD
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Learning disabilitiesDyslexia (Language-Based Learning Disability)This is a learning disability that can limit a child's ability to read and learn. It can have a variety of traits. A few of the main ones are impaired phonological awareness and decoding, problems with orthographic coding, and auditory short-term memory impairment.Auditory Processing Disorder (APD)This is a sound differentiation disorder involving problems with reading, comprehension, and language.DyscalculiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in math. Kids with this math disorder have problems with calculation. They may also have problems with math-related concepts such as time and money.DysgraphiaThis is a kind of specific learning disability in writing. It involves problems with handwriting, spelling, and organizing ideas.Language Processing DisorderThis is characterized by having extreme difficulty understanding what is heard and expressing what one wants to say. These disorders affect the area of the brain that controls language processing.Nonverbal Learning Disorders (NLD)These involve difficulties interpreting non-verbal cues, such as facial expressions and body language. They're usually characterized by a significant discrepancy between higher verbal skills and weaker motor, visual-spatial, and social skills.Visual Perceptual/Visual Motor DeficitA characteristic seen in people with learning disabilities such as Dysgraphia or Non-verbal LD. It can result in missing subtle differences in shapes or printed letters, losing place frequently, struggles with cutting, holding pencil too tightly, or poor eye/hand coordination.
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DevelopmentalAutismRefers to a range of conditions that involve challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and speech and nonverbal communication. They also involve unique strengths and differences. For instance, there are persons with both low- and high-functioning autism (some claim the latter is identical to Asperger's syndrome).Asperger's SyndromeOn the autism spectrum, Asperger's is considered quite mild in terms of symptoms. While traits can vary widely, many kids with Asperger's struggle with social skills. They also sometimes fixate on certain subjects and engage in repetitive behaviour.Down syndromehis is associated with impairment of cognitive ability and physical growth, and a particular set of facial characteristics.Intellectual disabilityThis is a condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning (e.g., reasoning, learning, and problem solving). Intellectual disabilities are also known as general learning disabilities (and used to be referred to as a kind of mental retardation).Williams syndromeThis is a rare genetic disorder present at birth. It is characterized by intellectual disabilities or learning problems, unique facial features, and cardiovascular problems.Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is an umbrella term used to describe the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother consumed alcohol during pregnancy. These may include growth deficits, facial anomalies, and damage to the central nervous system, which can lead to cognitive, behavioural, and other problems.
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Behavioral and EmotionalTroubled behaviour / troubled teensroubled teens tend to have problems that are intense, persistent, and can lead to quite unpredictable behaviour. This can lead to behavioural and emotional issues, such as drug and alcohol abuse, criminal behaviour, eating disorders, depression, and anxiety.Clinical DepressionThis is a mental health disorder also called "major depression." It involves persistent feelings of sadness, loss, and anger. According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms are usually severe enough to cause noticeable problems in relationships with others or in daily activities, such as school, work, or one's social life.Clinical anxietyThis is a mood disorder involving intense, relentless feelings of distress and fear. They can also have excessive and persistent worry about everyday situations, and repeated episodes of intense anxiety or terror.Suicidal thoughtsThis involves persistent thoughts about ending one's life.Drug and alcohol abuseThis involves the excessive use of drug and/or alcohol, which interferes with daily functioning.Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)This is a disruptive behavioural disorder which normally involves angry outbursts, often directed at people of authority. This behaviour must last continuously for six months or more and significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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PhysicalMultiple sclerosisThis is a condition of the central nervous system. It affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Symptoms can include fatigue, loss of motor control, memory loss, depression, and cognitive difficulties.Cerebral palsyhis refers to a group of permanent movement disorders that appear in early childhood. CP is caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture.Muscular dystrophyMuscular dystrophy is a neuromuscular disorder which weakens the body's muscles. Causes, symptoms, age of onset, and prognosis vary between individuals.Spina BifidaThis is a condition present at birth due to the incomplete formation of the spine and spinal cord. It can lead to a number of physical challenges, including paralysis or weakness in the legs, bowel and bladder incontinence, hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), and deformities of the spine.Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder)This is a Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Also known as "sensory integration disorder," it affects fine and/or gross motor coordination in children and adults. It may also affect speech.BlindnessVisual impairment is a decreased ability or inability to see that can't be fixed in usual ways, such as with glasses. Some people are completely blind, while others have what's called "legal blindness."DeafnessHearing impairment, also known as "hearing loss," is a partial or total inability to hear. The degree of hearing impairment varies between people. It can range from complete hearing loss (or deafness) to partial hearing loss (meaning the ears can pick up some sounds).Cystic FibrosisCystic Fibrosis (CF) is an inherited genetic condition, which affects the body's respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems. It affects young children and adults.Multiple physicalAccommodating a wide range of physical conditions and disabilities.
Read our guide to special needs schools and special education
Academic support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Learning strategy and study counselling; habit formation | |
| Extra support and minor accommodations for children experiencing subclinical difficulties |
Mild but clinically diagnosed learning disabilities
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | |
| Modifications | |
| Extra support |
Additional support
| Type | Offered |
|---|---|
| Social skills programs | |
| Occupational therapy | |
| Psychotherapy | |
| Speech-language therapy |
Gifted learner support
[Show definition of Gifted learner support]
Curriculum Delivery: This information is not currently available.
Class structure
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Full-time gifted program (parallel to rest of school) | |
| Part-time gifted program (pull-out; parallel to rest of class) |
In-class adaptations
| Program | Offered |
|---|---|
| Custom subject enrichment (special arrangement) | |
| Custom curriculum compacting (special arrangement) | |
| Guided independent study (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Cyber-learning opportunities (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Formalized peer coaching opportunities (specifically for gifted learners to coach others) | |
| Custom subject acceleration (special arrangement) | |
| Career exploration (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Project-based learning (custom gifted arrangement) | |
| Mentorships (custom gifted arrangement) |
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their gifted learner support:
This information is not currently available.
Homework Policy
[Show definition of Homework Policy]
Nightly homework
In grade Gr. 4, Vancouver Waldorf School students perform an average of No homework of homework per night.
| NS | PS | JK | SK | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver Waldorf School | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins | 0 mins |
| Site Average | 0 mins | 2 mins | 6 mins | 7 mins | 15 mins | 18 mins | 24 mins | 30 mins |
What Vancouver Waldorf School says about their flipped classroom policy:
This information is not currently available.
Report Card Policy
[Show definition of Report Card Policy]
How assessments are delivered across the grades
| Type | Grades |
|---|---|
| Lettered or numbered grades | Gr. 9 to Gr. 12 |
| Prose (narrative)-based feedback | JK to Gr. 12 |
| Parent-teacher meetings | Preschool to Gr. 12 |
Extracurricular Activities
While academics remain the priority for most private schools, many also place a strong focus on a well-rounded education and encourage participation in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, arts, or clubs. Involvement in extracurriculars helps stimulate students in their studies, makes them more motivated to learn, and can make school more enjoyable and fulfilling. Extracurricular activities can also provide students with a much-needed break from the stresses of academics, while helping them to develop skills and allowing them to take part in valuable social situations.
Sports offered
Vancouver Waldorf School offers 3 competitive sports and 4 recreational sports.
Competitive offered Recreational offered
all sports]
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Track & Field
- Volleyball
Clubs offered
Vancouver Waldorf School offers 2 clubs and extracurricular programs.
Clubs offered Clubs not offered
all clubs and programs]
Outdoor Education
Student Council
