Janusz Korczak University
Warsaw, Poland
Teaching language: Polish
Study programs: 2 year, part-time program
Degrees offered:
• Diploma in Waldorf Education
Podyplomowe Studia Edukacji Niezależnej was founded in 1992 at the University of Warsaw. After the political changeover, it was one of the first opportunities in Poland to study alternative pedagogy. Since then, the program has offered a foundation in Waldorf pedagogy for class and kindergarten teachers. As of 2023, the program is newly offered by the Janusz Korcyak University in Warsaw.
The main task of the program is, on the one hand, to prepare teachers as practically as possible for working with children. On the other hand, the program also aims to provide students with a basis for understanding the anthropological and anthroposophical foundations of Waldorf pedagogy, which serve as a springboard for the development of pedagogical abilities.
The approach to Waldorf pedagogy is twofold. The theoretical foundations are presented in lectures and discussed in seminars, also in the context of current pedagogical discourse. This more intellectual approach is complemented by a practical approach through artistic activity, which not only develops abilities needed for teaching, but also contributes to the continual personal development of the teacher. Regular evaluations show that most future Waldorf teachers see this artistic coursework as having offered some of the most important experiences contributing to their professional development.
The program is offered in cooperation with the Association of Polish Waldorf Schools and Waldorf Kindergartens. Lecturers and teachers in the program are mostly experienced teachers from Polish Waldorf schools and kindergartens. The program also has a long tradition of contact with other institutions and cooperation with guest teachers from other countries.
Note: this program is paused for the 2023-2024 academic year. Applications are being accepted for the academic year 2024-2025.
