Alternative schools: Montessori and Waldorf

In short: Montessori and Waldorf schools are alternative educational concepts with their own teaching approach, differing from the classic state school system. Both place special value on individual development rather than simply working through a curriculum.

In more detail: Both concepts arose in the early 20th century and have since spread internationally.

In detail

• Montessori education: Emphasises self-directed learning with special learning materials and mixed-age groups.
• Waldorf education: Based on Rudolf Steiner’s anthroposophy, values artistic and craft subjects.
• Grading: Often introduced later or in a different form than at regular schools, for example through detailed reports.
• Qualifications: Alternative schools usually lead to state-recognised qualifications.
• Costs: Often school fees, often tiered by income.
• Criticism: Parts of Waldorf education, such as esoteric elements, are viewed critically by science.
• Fit: Not every child benefits equally from alternative pedagogy; individual fit is crucial (gesamtschule-realschule-gymnasium-unterschiede).