“Step into a world where education meets artistry. Here at Martinskolan, learning transcends the ordinary. Martinskolan is a Waldorf school nestled in Hökärängen in Farsta. It’s a place where students are encouraged to explore their creativity and develop a lifelong love of learning.
Founded in 1976, Martinskolan has a rich history of providing Waldorf education. The school serves around 410 students in grades 1-9. Martingården preschool is also part of Martinskolan. The school is owned by a non-profit foundation. Its board consists of staff and parents. Martinskolan once included a high school but that is no longer part of the school.
At Martinskolan, education is more than just academics. The school emphasizes a broad education. It integrates theoretical and aesthetic subjects. Music, crafts, and visual arts hold significant importance. Students participate in normal class instruction. They are motivated to study and appreciate a broad education. Various abilities are utilized.
The curriculum at Martinskolan is rooted in Waldorf pedagogy. It emphasizes national and international didactical experiences. Classes stay together. Teaching is organized by grade level. In the early grades, a class teacher is responsible for most subjects. Gradually, more teachers with different subject expertise join the class.
The school day at Martinskolan has a unique rhythm. Lower grades start with a “rhythmic warm-up”. This includes songs, games, reciting verses, and playing the flute. A rhythmically structured school day is a cornerstone of Waldorf education. The aim is to structure the school day and lessons similarly. Intellectually demanding subjects are scheduled earlier. Art, movement, and crafts are later in the day. Lessons include listening, discussing, creating images, and writing.
A key element at Martinskolan is the close relationship between teacher and student. Teachers adapt their teaching based on their knowledge of their students. Studies show that Waldorf school students often report good relationships with their teachers. They find the teaching interesting and stimulating.
Martinskolan fosters a strong sense of community. The school celebrates seasonal festivals like Advent, Christmas, Easter, and the harvest festival Mikaeli. These celebrations include songs, stories, games, and verses. These are at the heart of the shared festivities.
At Martinskolan, different materials, colors, and shapes are important. Students work with natural materials. This is a vital part of learning. Wool, cotton, wood, metal, clay, or beeswax require specific methods and tools. Artistic activity and crafts are therefore significant in teaching. Outdoor activities in various natural settings are also important.
Waldorf education at Martinskolan believes experience precedes conceptualization. Teaching offers students opportunities for rich experiences. These stimulate sight, hearing, smell, touch, balance, and movement. These experiences promote students’ conceptual and intellectual development.
Martinskolan is more than just a school. It is a community where students learn. They grow and develop their unique talents. It is a place where education ignites a lifelong passion for learning and creativity.”