This post is reflection of the research and findings of a Master's student at the University of Auckland. As an architecture student, her thesis focused on the built pedagogies around Auckland and what makes them good or bad. After the discussion it was clear that learning and teaching has many aspects which overlap, however distinguishing the success of each space proved to be difficult.
During the discussion we spoke about Montessori and Steiner schools. These two schooling systems foster a child's own imagination and creativity. They allow for children to grow at their own pace, fully understanding that every child is different. I find that such elements, often overlooked by other schooling systems, brings about a big difference in the growth of a child.
Before choosing a school for your child, it is important to consider the teaching methods and whether or not they fit with how you would like for your child to be educated. Both Montessori and Steiner encourage connection to nature, however the teaching methods were completely different. Montessori acknowledges that children are smart and therefore subjects such as practicality, sensory, language and reading and maths are taught. Steiner on the other hand focuses more on the imagination of a child where oral activities such as singing and playing music, performing form the basis of their learning.
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