Modeled after the Fulltime Program, the summer teacher education program provides an opportunity for early childhood and class teachers already in the classroom to gain Waldorf certification. Here you will work side by side with active teachers under the guidance of our experienced faculty in order that your understanding of waldorf Education will be enriched and deepened. This program emphasizes the practical approach to the pedagogy introduced by Rudolf Steiner and is focused on giving the practicing teacher the tools necessary to his or her craft. Through an integrated program of Foundation Studies, the arts, human and self-development, and curriculum studies, the teacher will be well prepared to become an independent practioner of the principles of Rudolf Steiner Education.

This course has a duration of 5 weeks per summer for 4 summers and is held on our beautiful Rudolf Steiner College campus from late June through July. You will be provided with year-round mentors throughout the program who will be available by phone & visit your classroom to offer support and feedback.

Our summer course happens during the most vibrant period of activity at Rudolf Steiner college. Because of the multiplicity of programs offered in the summer, you will mingle with educators in many different fields and find an opportunity to have lunch conversations with colleagues and faculty from Europe, Africa, Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Summer Students can live in our beautiful dorms and eat healthful and tasty organic and biodynamic meals. Campus life is punctuated with evening entertainment and concerts.

Summer 2009 Teacher Education Flyer (PDF)

Faculty Profile

Lauren Hickman

Head of the Early Childhood Program

A graduate of the University of California at Davis, Lauren has worked as a kindergarten teacher and has directed Pre-K and Tots and Parent programs. A Waldorf graduate herself, Lauren comes from a pioneering family in Waldorf Education and is knowledgeable about all facets of early childhood education.

Patrick Wakeford-Evans, MA

Academic Dean, Program Director, Full-time Waldorf Teacher Education

After 17 years as a class teacher, Patrick joined Rudolf Steiner College as an adult educator in 1999. He has given lectures and mentored teachers in Mexico, Japan, England, and the United States. He has worked as a musician, actor, and playwright. His special interest is in science education and inner development. He has developed new programs at Rudolf Steiner College and is currently the Academic Dean.