Home schooling?
There are currently 11 schools and 18 early childhood educational settings that are members of SEANZ in Aotearoa New Zealand. All members have been through a robust process to ensure the integrity of Steiner Waldorf pedagogy is embedded in each context. In addition to the registered Steiner Waldorf schools and early childhood centres that are members of SEANZ, we are aware that some parents are using the Steiner Waldorf curriculum for home-schooling. Imitation is the highest form of flattery, and we are delighted that our methods are valued beyond our membership. However, this raises some important considerations for us.
Firstly, we hold a trademark on the names “Steiner,” “Rudolf Steiner,” and “Waldorf” when used in an educational setting in Aotearoa New Zealand. These names are endorsed by the Hague Circle for schools and IASWECE (the International Association for Steiner/Waldorf Early Childhood Education) for use in early childhood settings worldwide. SEANZ is responsible for this in Aotearoa New Zealand. Our members pay levies that contribute to the ongoing development of Steiner Waldorf education and the safeguarding of the curriculum in our context.
Secondly, our members adhere to specific criteria for membership, ensuring that a high quality of education and care is maintained. Without such adherence, there is a risk that the Steiner or Waldorf name may be associated with standards of care and education that we cannot endorse, which could pose a risk to all our members.
Membership Benefits and Support
Our network provides significant support and resources for members to ensure the highest standards are upheld in all settings using the Steiner or Waldorf approach. These include:
Access to ongoing professional development and teacher training programs, ensuring educators remain aligned with the core principles of the Steiner Waldorf philosophy
Regular updates on curriculum development and best practices
Opportunities to participate in a global community of educators and early childhood practitioners, offering peer support, shared resources, and collaborative growth
By becoming a member, educators and institutions benefit from a structured framework that supports the holistic and high-quality delivery of Steiner Waldorf education.
Legal Considerations
As custodians of the Steiner and Waldorf names in Aotearoa New Zealand, we have a responsibility to ensure that these trademarks are only used by those meeting the educational standards we endorse. This protects the reputation of the educational approach and the trust of the families we serve. Unauthorised use of these names without adhering to our membership criteria or consulting us may result in legal action to protect the integrity of the Steiner Waldorf name.
To safeguard both your work and ours, and to ensure that Steiner and Waldorf education maintains its high standards, we kindly request that you contact us if you are using these names as part of your activities. We would be happy to discuss how you can become part of our network, ensuring mutual support and safeguarding the integrity of this unique approach to education.