Nelson Waldorf School

About

Nelson Waldorf School is located at 3648 Silverking Ski Hill Road, Nelson, BC V1L 6N2. The school describes Waldorf education as “a journey of discovery” that builds a lifelong love of learning and supports children’s development from early childhood through Grade 9. It emphasizes developing knowledgeable, capable students with reverence for the natural world, strong agency, and critical thinking to create positive change. The campus is described as a forest setting with spaces that support community life, including festivals and artistic presentations.

At a Glance

School type: Independent School (Kootenay Lake)

Education language: English

Religious affiliation: None / Secular

Grades: K-9

Phone: 250 352-6919

Email: info@nelsonwaldorf.org

Principal: Marcelo Porto Goncalves

Programs and Services

Arts, hands-on learning, and music The school describes a richly artistic curriculum where students regularly create and work with their hands (including painting, drawing, woodworking, and knitting). Music is integrated throughout the day through singing and the playing of musical instruments. Child Care Centre The school offers a “vibrant Child Care Centre.” Student support / social-emotional supports The school’s Social Inclusion Approach provides teachers with resources to support students in social conflict situations. A student-created “Code of Compassion” is posted in classrooms and hallways to support a climate of trust conducive to learning. Diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice A Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice (DEISJ) Committee reviews curriculum and policy and identifies ways to create a more welcoming, safe, and accessible environment.

School Culture and Expectations

The school emphasizes inclusion, support, and engagement, describing the community as “like connecting with family.” It uses a Social Inclusion Approach to help address social conflict, and students have created a school-wide Code of Compassion to uphold a trusting learning climate. The school also highlights ongoing work through its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Social Justice (DEISJ) Committee to strengthen a welcoming, safe, and accessible environment.

Enrollment

The enrolment process begins with completing an application form (linked on the admissions page), after which the Enrolment Manager or Principal contacts the family. Families are then invited to a school tour, a meeting with teacher(s) (and the Principal or Student Support teacher), and a classroom visit of up to three days (not for Kindergarten). Final acceptance is decided after the visit, followed by enrolment contracts and a follow-up from the Finance Office about tuition and fees. Families can also sign up for a tour by calling 250-352-6919 or emailing info@nelsonwaldorf.org.