Hands-on learning

Deep, practical learning in every subject. Students learn by doing: making, building and experimenting.

Low-tech by design

Technology is used to advance learning, never to replace teaching. Small classes mean every student is known.

Academic excellence

When teenagers feel seen and inspired, learning comes naturally. Essential GCSEs sit alongside portfolio and project work, so every skill is assessed.

Human skills

In a fast-changing world, Waldorf Cambridge stays true to what it has always done: growing imagination, creativity, teamwork and kindness. Growing whole people, not just test scores.

1 · ASSESSED BY EXAM

5 GCSEs

• Maths
• English Language
• English Literature
• Combined Science (biology, chemistry and physics, counts as 2 GCSEs)

The core GCSEs colleges ask for. Students sit the exams at school, which is an AQA exam centre, and each student takes them when they're ready.

2 · ASSESSED BY PORTFOLIO

Level 2 Diploma

Crossfields Institute Integrative Education Diploma

• Natural Sciences
• Art, Craft & Design
• Global Awareness
• Creative Thinking Skills
• Personal & Social Learning Skills

Optional modules: Independent Project, a Modern Language, PE, Performing Arts. Read the specification

The Diploma counts at GCSE level

Regulated by Ofqual, the same body that oversees GCSEs. Each module is about the size of one GCSE: 120 hours of learning. The Diploma is awarded at Distinction, Merit or Pass, earned through portfolio and project work, not a single exam at the end.

5 GCSEs + 4 or more Diploma modules = 9+ GCSE-level grades

Main lesson, five mornings a week

A long morning block on one topic, studied in depth for several weeks, such as ecology, modern history or poetry.

Subject lessons

Maths, Science and English lessons that build steadily towards the GCSE exams.

Hands, heart and body

Art, woodwork, handwork, games, eurythmy and Learning for Life, in a low-tech, phone-free school.

AGE 16

Leave with GCSEs and a Level 2 Diploma

AGES 16–18

Sixth form, college or an apprenticeship

AND BEYOND

A-levels, Level 3 diplomas or BTECs, then university, training or work

Will my child get qualifications?

Yes. 5 core GCSEs plus a Level 2 Diploma at GCSE level, with only 5 sat as exams. That leaves time for making, creating, thinking and growing.

Can they go on to sixth form or college?

Yes. Everything students do in Upper School counts. Their project and portfolio work earns the Level 2 Diploma, regulated by Ofqual and recognised at GCSE level, alongside the 5 core GCSEs sixth forms and colleges ask for.

My child is 14 or 15. Is it too late to join?

Not at all. Upper School students have only just begun working towards their GCSEs, and each student takes them when they're ready. Families can join all year round.

Where does technology fit in?

As a tool, never the teacher. Upper School is low-tech and phone-free. Technology is used for research and to speed up work, but the ideas, creativity and thinking are always the students' own.