It all began in August 2001 when five mothers met and realised they shared a common passion for Waldorf Education. A weekly playgroup was formed at a parent’s home. The five were joined by others. It became a gathering of local, long-term residents and expats bringing a truly global flavour reflecting the cultural history of Singapore. The children grew and the challenge of starting a Kindergarten loomed ahead. Margarete Lange stepped in as the teacher and everyone worked hard to prepare the classroom and decide how to run a co-op.
In January 2003 the first class started with 9 children aged 3-4 under the auspices of the Waldorf Steiner Education Association (Singapore) a registered non-profit society formed by 13 parents and teachers committed to supporting and developing Waldorf Steiner Education in Singapore.
Seeds of Anthroposophy in Singapore were planted over gatherings of individuals (locals and those from different countries who came to Singapore to work, migrate, etc) yearning to know more about Rudolf Steiner’s works and Waldorf education.
A group of mothers from various Waldorf communities in Singapore comes together to establish a playgroup, marking the birth of the Waldorf Education initiative in the country.
The community officially registers as a non-profit society, the Waldorf Steiner Education Association Singapore, or WSEA(S), laying a strong foundation for growth with recognition, stability, and a clear mission to deepen the roots of anthroposophy and Waldorf in Singapore.
The playgroup grows and relocates to Elite Park, establishing a co-op kindergarten classroom.
The Anthroposophy community matures and evolves, leading to the sprouting of The Waldorf School Singapore (TWSS, est.2017-closed 2022)
WSEA(S) finds a new home at Jalan Senang and independently operates WSEYC, the only pure Waldorf kindergarten in Singapore.
A threefold social order is established, weaving together education, community, and anthroposophy, determined through a community planning and discussion, facilitated by the association board president.
From craft circles and teacher training to shared seasonal celebrations, our founding families laid the foundation for a vibrant, values-driven community. Their spirit of collaboration and service continues to inspire everything we do.
Today, the Association supports hundreds of families and educators. We remain committed to fostering unhurried childhoods, nurturing creativity, and modelling the kindness children learn by imitation.
The Waldorf Steiner Education Association Singapore, founded in 2003, is a non-profit supporting Waldorf education locally through the Early Years Learning Centre, workshops, events, and community outreach.