The Class 12 Project Presentations – A Class Teachers Reflections

The Class 12 Project presentation week was one of the most deeply satisfying experiences of my career in Waldorf education. To watch students, some of whom I had the privilege to teach for seven years, confidently stand before the school community and present the fruits of their research and practical assignments was very uplifting, and often moving. It was also very informative. I learnt something new from every student, like I was attending a series of thoughtful TED talks.  

I found myself reflecting on how far the students had come in the time I had known them: from the very first Main Lesson learning to draw straight and curved lines to now being teachers themselves, sharing the learning they had synthesized about deep and varied issues.  

Even in the early years of teaching them, I dreamed that I would one day be around to see them present their projects. Sitting in the audience I found it easy to see each 18-year-old in an earlier stage of their development, often on stage in a different capacity, playing a character in a class play. But that was just my class. The topics of the other Class 12 students were equally tantalizing, and I wish I had enough time to see them all in that week. I know all their past teachers would have been equally proud.  

This made me reflect on all the people who have played a part in helping the entire Class 12 cohort get to this point- all the teachers, guardians and assistants from playgroup to High School, in our school and others. Also, most importantly, the steadfast loving families who have supported their growth and development throughout their lives. All can feel very proud of their achievements, but none prouder than the students themselves, who engaged with the Waldorf curriculum and the final crucible of the projects. 

I’d like to extend special gratitude to Sharon and Natalie who oversaw the Projects and the students’ progress with dedication and care, as well as holding the students to high expectation. The academic rigour this year was of a uniformly high standard. 

Finally, the support and staging itself was excellent. Together with Anna, Sarah and the presentation support team, the Project Coordinators created the conditions in which the students could truly shine. 

In my view the Class 12 Projects at PWS have come of age and we can all rightly celebrate these students as beacons of our school community.  

If you didn’t get to see any presentations, especially if you are wondering about the proof in the Waldorf pudding, take a few moments to access the online versions. You won’t be disappointed. 

Kevin
Primary School Coordinator