Summarized by Elisabeth Burgess
In the competitive landscape of academic excellence, Waldorf students have consistently demonstrated remarkable success. A striking example comes from Hamburg, Germany, where Waldorf students outperformed their peers across the city, securing the highest average grades in the challenging “Abitur” exams—a prerequisite for university admission in Germany. But what factors contribute to the success of these students?
Last year, the Rudolf-Steiner-Schule Bergstedt in Hamburg showcased an extraordinary achievement. Their students achieved an average grade of 1.8 in the Abitur exams, surpassing the national average of 2.31. This feat was not unnoticed, drawing attention from the “Hamburger Abendblatt,” which sought insights from the school’s faculty and administrative team.
The success of these students can be attributed to several key factors, deeply embedded in the Waldorf educational philosophy:
- Long-term Cohesion: Two-thirds of the graduating class had been learning together since the first grade, fostering a continuity of the learning environment.
- Self and Mutual Understanding: Students develop a deep understanding of themselves and each other, recognizing individual strengths and weaknesses, and building trust.
- School Community: The school’s intimate size encourages close relationships between students and faculty, steering clear of anonymity.
- Parental Involvement: There’s a strong emphasis on collaboration with parents, enhancing the educational journey.
- Holistic Curriculum: Waldorf schools are known for their broad curriculum that not only emphasizes academic subjects but also includes practical and performing arts.
- Continuous Teacher Collaboration: Teachers engage in ongoing dialogues about the collective needs of the class and the specific needs of individual students.
- Introduction of Grades: Notably, formal grading begins only in high school, allowing younger students to focus on learning without the pressure of constant assessment.
The achievements of Waldorf students in Hamburg resonate with our core values and aspirations here at Kimberton Waldorf School. Our commitment to fostering a supportive, enriching, and holistic educational environment mirrors the dedication seen in our German counterparts. We believe that these elements are crucial in nurturing not only academically successful students but well-rounded individuals ready to make their mark on the world.
For those interested in delving deeper into this remarkable story of success and the methodology behind it, and if you can read German, we encourage you to read the full article here.
