Founded in 1925, it is the UK’s oldest and largest Waldorf school, dedicated to helping children grow into confident, capable, and compassionate young people.
At a time when childhood can feel rushed and over-scheduled, Michael Hall provides space for curiosity and imagination to unfold naturally. Learning is purposeful, grounded, and deeply human — shaped by rhythm, nature, and creativity rather than screens or standardisation.
Learning at a Human Pace
Waldorf education recognises that children learn best when the curriculum matches their stage of development. In the early years, imaginative play, rhythm, and outdoor exploration form the foundation for healthy growth. As pupils move into the Lower and Middle School, academic subjects are introduced through storytelling, art, movement, and practical work that engage both heart and mind.
Instead of memorising information for tests, children learn through experience — painting letters before writing them, exploring maths through rhythm and pattern, or discovering science through observation and experiment. This approach cultivates curiosity and confidence, allowing children to find meaning in what they learn.
Early Childhood (Ages 0–6): Warmth, Play and Nature
In the Early Childhood — home to Parent & Child groups, Saplings, Kindergarten, and Forest Kindergarten — learning begins through imitation, rhythm, and play. The children experience a gentle daily rhythm that mirrors home life: bread baking, stories, crafts, play with natural materials, and spending long, unhurried time outdoors.
This warm, nurturing environment lays the foundation for emotional security, imagination, and social confidence — all essential for later academic learning.
Lower and Middle School (Ages 6–14): Curiosity and Connection
From Class 1 onwards, children stay with their class teacher for up to 8 years, allowing deep understanding and connection to grow. Lessons are brought alive through storytelling, music, drama, and art, helping students engage with the material on an emotional and creative level.
Subjects such as maths, geography, and history are interwoven with painting, poetry, and movement in main lesson each morning, ensuring that intellectual learning is balanced by artistic expression. These years develop curiosity, empathy, and a love of learning that lasts well beyond school.
Upper School (Ages 15–18): Purpose and Independence
In the Upper School, students are encouraged to think critically, express themselves creatively, and prepare for the world beyond school. Alongside GCSEs and A Levels, Michael Hall offers Integrated Education (IE) qualifications through Crossfields Institute which meet the needs of today’s young people — recognising different learning styles, neurodiversity, and the academic brilliance of every student. The aim is to equip them not only for further study, but for a purposeful, balanced life in an ever-changing world.
Nature as a Teacher
Set within 100 acres of Sussex parkland, the school’s grounds are alive with learning. From the forest kindergarten to Upper School sports, students spend time outdoors in all weathers — studying the living world, planting and harvesting vegetables, or exploring in the woods.
This relationship with nature builds resilience and respect. It helps children understand sustainability not as a lesson, but as a way of life.
A Strong Sense of Community
Michael Hall’s community is central to its ethos. Parents, teachers, and pupils come together to celebrate seasonal festivals, theatre performances, and shared work days. These traditions create a deep sense of belonging and continuity — a feeling that everyone is part of something larger than themselves.
Families often describe the school as warm and inclusive, a place where their children are known and supported. Many alumni return to enrol their own children, continuing a connection that spans generations.
“Receive the children in reverence, educate them in love, and send them forth in freedom.”
Rudolf Steiner, founder of Waldorf Education
A Century of Waldorf Education
As Michael Hall marks its 100th year, its founding principles feel more relevant than ever. In a world of constant change, it offers an education grounded in purpose, rhythm, and respect for individuality.
Waldorf education aims to nurture not only academic ability, but the human qualities that help young people thrive — empathy, curiosity, and integrity.
At Michael Hall, learning is not about keeping pace with others but about discovering one’s own path — with confidence, creativity, and care for the world.
Discover Michael Hall
If you’d like to experience Michael Hall for yourself, we’d love to welcome you.
🌿 Visit: www.michaelhall.co.uk
📧 Email: admissions@michaelhall.co.uk
🎟️ Join us for an Open Day: Book your place here →
📷 Follow our journey: Instagram | Facebook
