Early Years Centre Community Info. Session #2 – Nov. 21

Join us to learn more about our new Spring Creek Early Years Centre opening on December 2, 2019!

We had such great turnout at our first Community Information Session that we’ve decided to host a second – this time in our new location in the Sea to Sky Services Building in Spring Creek.

Date: Thursday November 21
Time: 6:30-7:30 pm
Location: Early Years Centre in Spring Creek at 1519 Spring Creek Drive.

Our Early Years Program is offered for children 30 month-school age, 2-5 days a week throughout the year. The info session will include:

  • tea and snacks with a short presentation on program details
  • projected opening dates, rates, the admissions process & wait pool policy details
  • opportunity to ask questions and mingle with staff.

Please note: This is an adult oriented event.

Whistler Waldorf features a caring, thoughtfully designed learning environment integrating arts, movement, music and storytelling into the curriculum daily. This allows children to learn the best way they know how – by doing!

For more information or to submit an application for enrollment for your child for in the Early Years Centre, please email Admissions or call 604.932.1885.

Early Years Centre Experience Day

Curious about the new Spring Creek Early Years Centre?

Join us and experience it in person.

Enjoy bread baking alongside your child, explore our classroom beauty, and have the opportunity to meet our faculty.

Whistler Waldorf features a caring, thoughtfully designed learning environment integrating arts, movement, music and storytelling into the curriculum daily. This allows children to learn the best way they know how – by doing!

Date: Wednesday November 20th from 1-3pm

Venue: Early Years Centre in Spring Creek located at 1519 Spring Creek Drive

Details of Schedule:

1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Arrive & Explore the Classroom
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Bread Baking
2:00 PM – 2:15 PM
Circle Time
2:15 PM – 3:00 PM
Free Play & Q&A

Please RSVP to attend this event as space is limited. For more information or to RSVP please email Admissions.

 

 

Community Corner – Oct. 31

WWS Spotlight

Bronwyn Preece  – High School Drama Teacher

You are joining WWS as the High School Drama teacher.  Please share a bit about your background.

It’s been such a treat to join the WWS team of amazing students and staff this fall: what an inspiring community and extended network of people to be surrounded by. I come to Waldorf as a multi-disciplinary professional artist, with a PhD in Performance, a Masters and BFA in Applied Theatre.  In addition to my performance work, I have two children’s books published, am a poet, a mother, a hiker…and have been living here for almost two years now!

Your first WWS performance was with Grade 8 this week and it’s Shakespeare. How has it gone?

The Grade 8 class and I have undertaken the challenging task of trying to mount a Shakespearean production in less than a month…and we have jumped right in!  The past 3.5 weeks have seen us wrapping our tongues around The Bard’s language, trying to decipher the layered and complex twists and turns of the intersecting plots, deepening our understandings of the nuanced subtleties of character traits…and connecting/questioning the relevance of Much Ado About Nothing to today’s issues…and trying to memorize many lines! What we aimed to share with parents and fellow school mates was not a polished, final product — rather an exciting glimpse into our continued understanding and embodying of one of Shakespeare’s greatest comedies…with the personalization of the WWS Grade 8 touch!

I understand that your own work often explores ecological/social/political themes. Is there an all time favourite piece that you’d recommend?

One of my favourite performance projects I was involved in was titled The Trans-Plantable Living Room. This was a trans-national project, created for World Stage Design 2013 in Wales.  The project worked with community gardeners in Cardiff, who grew a ‘living’ set within which we performed. Sprouting Sofas. Flourishing furnishings.  Tables with tendrils.  The performance project explored how something as local as gardening could serve as metre for global climate change.  The project was later featured in London’s Victoria and Albert Museum.

Thank You…and I am looking very much forward to working with the 9/10 and 11/12s in the Spring for their Play Blocks!

Thank you, Bronwyn!

Bulletin Board Listings:

 

Youth Band looking for members – If you’ve ever wanted to play a trumpet, now is your chance! Or a flute, guitar, drums or any instrument you would like. The Whistler Youth Band is looking for musicians from Grade 5 and up – beginners are welcome!

Come out and try it on Mondays from 6:30-8:00pm at Blackcomb Base.
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Freestyle Ski, Film Premiere and Silent Auction Fundraiser!  – Supporting Whistler’s Freestyle A-Team. For more information: https://artswhistler.com/event/faction-skis-the-collective-bonus-films

  • Date: Friday, November 8, 2019
  • Times: 7:00pm Doors/Opening Party | 7:45pm Show | 8:45pm Prizes/Giveaways
  • Tickets: $15 Advanced | $20 Day of show
  • Venue: Maury Young Arts Centre

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Volunteering Opportunities at Whistler Olympic ParkIf you like Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, or just enjoy being outdoors, consider volunteering at Whistler Olympic Park! Applications are being accepted now for this ski season.

Community Corner – Oct. 24

WWS Spotlight

Zalan Gloch (Gr. 11)WWS International Student from Veszprem in Hungary.

What is your most memorable experience so far:

I loved the fall trip and wish I could stay for the winter one as well. It was beautiful scenery and I felt it pushed me out of my comfort zone being out in the wilderness. It was a great experience.

What class (es) are you enjoying?

I really liked Mr. Power’s physics class as I learnt a lot and have been able to expand my English vocabulary. It was really challenging but fun.

You’re a professional videographer. Is this something you would like to do after you graduate? 

I’m not sure yet. It’s definitely an option. I don’t have concrete plans yet, but I’d like to go to an English speaking university in the future so I can work on my English more.

Is there anything that you really enjoy at our school?

I really love the teachers. They are great and very helpful. I also like that we spend more time outside to learn and do more in the outdoors.

Thanks  Zalan and welcome to WWS! 

(Above Photo credit> Zalan is shown with Ms. Orsa Horvath, Waldorf’s Little Cedars Teacher, who is also from Hungary.)

 

Bulletin Board Listings:

 

Oct. 24 @ 7pm – Sea to Sky Orchestra in Pemberton:

If you missed the Sea to Sky Orchestra’s last performance at the Whistler Public Library, you can catch it free on Thursday, October 24 in Pemberton. The Sea to Sky Orchestra will play a collection of classical music along with some new favorites including selections from Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean and more.

Oct. 26 from 10-5pm – Sea to Sky Trans, Two-Spirit, and Gender Diverse: Learn + Share Workshop for all ages, their families, and loved ones in Squamish.

LEARN  …about Trans Care BC and what we do & SHARE  …what is important for you to feel supported as a trans, Two-Spirit or gender diverse person, parent/caregiver or loved one. The Parent Caregiver and Child/Youth sessions are both from 10am – 1pm, and Adult and Care Provider sessions are from 2pm – 5pm. For more details, or to secure your spot, contact Catherine or phone/text 604-341-8316

Volunteering Opportunities at Whistler Olympic Park:

If you like Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, or just enjoy being outdoors, consider volunteering at Whistler Olympic Park! Applications are being accepted now for this ski season.

Drama – an example of integration in Waldorf education

” Speech and drama achieve one of the essential goals of Waldorf Education; to integrate thinking, feeling and willing. With this in mind, it is not surprising that this art form is present in every stage of our curriculum.”

Rubeena, Head of School

In our Early Years programs, creative free play makes use of drama and children become kings, queens, animals and more to complete their imaginative play. In our grades and high school classes teachers deepen main lesson learning with thematically linked performances. Every child in the class participates, uniting the class artistically and socially. Students gain self-confidence, appreciation and acceptance among their peers and completion of performances leads to a shared experience of pride.

Many students will likely never occupy a stage space again after school, but they will undoubtedly have gained a deeper understanding of themselves and human development along with a healthy dose of self-confidence.

Grade 8’s upcoming performance of Much Ado About Nothing marks the first class play of the year and I hope that you join us in celebrating these students’ efforts.

Rubeena Sandhu –  Head of School

The Importance of Teacher Parent Conferences

“Often parents find that their peers have the same questions, struggles and successes with their own children. It is so good to know your experiences are not yours alone!”

Rubeena Sandhu – Head of School

In the chilly nights of autumn, the thought of leaving a nice, warm, cozy home to attend a class meeting evening can be difficult.  So, thank you for leaving the comforts of home and utilizing one of the many gifts a Waldorf Education brings – regular parent evenings.

While teacher/parent conferences focus on an individual child and his/her social and academic progress, class meetings can deal with class learning goals, social-emotional dynamics, developmental milestones and academic aims. Often parents find that their peers have the same questions, struggles and successes with their own children. It is so good to know your experiences are not yours alone!

Throughout the school years, there will be many celebrations and some challenges; regular class meetings help parents keep in touch with it all – worth braving the cold dark nights, to meet the warmth and light of your children’s learning.

Rubeena Sandhu -  Head of School

Community Corner – Oct. 17

WWS Spotlight

Jacqueline Maartense, Peter Giesebrecht & Ciara (Gr. 8)WWS Family Members/Student

Tell Me About Yourself:

We moved to Whistler in 2014 with a plan to spend one year in the area.  Six years later Ciara graduated from Ecole La Passerelle.  We are hybrid locals and continue to spend our summers in Pembroke, Ontario. Ciara and I co-founded a company together called Mountain Mystery Games. It’s a Whistler-themed, live, interactive gaming experience for parties, team building and fundraising. Ciara’s goal this year is to fund fifty business women in developing countries through the game sale proceeds. Ciara is also writing a circus-themed mystery for younger kids. Professionally, Peter does real estate development and I run a strategy consulting practice for high tech start-ups, and coach local youth about entrepreneurship in association with Junior Achievers.

What brings you to WWS?

We have good family friends who attend WWS. We’ve watched their kids thrive in the Waldorf community.  As we pondered our high school options, we decided to check out Waldorf.  Here we are!

Has there anything that has surprised you at our school?

Ciara’s biggest surprise has been her freedom in the classroom.  She had never experienced Waldorf’s style of learning.  Our biggest surprise is that she likes Shakespeare!

Is there anything that your child is particularly enjoying?

Ciara thinks that the Waldorf teaching method makes learning a lot more fun.  She has found it more challenging than other school environments.

Thanks Jaqueline and welcome to WWS! 

 

Bulletin Board Listings:

 

Oct. 24 @ 7pm – Sea to Sky Orchestra in Pemberton:

If you missed the Sea to Sky Orchestra’s last performance at the Whistler Public Library, you can catch it free on Thursday, October 24 in Pemberton. The Sea to Sky Orchestra will play a collection of classical music along with some new favorites including selections from Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean and more. https://www.facebook.com/events/490102451545373/

Teacher Accommodation Needed:

Hello! My name is Olivia Hanna. I am currently teaching kindergarten at the Whistler Waldorf School. I am searching for a place to live in Whistler long term by mid November, but I can move in sooner. My budget is $1000-$1200  for a room in a shared house. Non-smoking. I have no pets. Tidy, quiet, 35 years old. Just moved to Whistler from Ontario in late summer. Hoping to spend free time skiing and enjoying the beautiful nature here. I also enjoy yoga, hiking, cooking and knitting. If you know of a room that might be a good fit, please send me an email or text. Thank you for your help! Pls. contact me at my email or 647-673-5891.

Christmas vacation rental needed:

Intl. student Miguel’s family would like to visit over Christmas but having a hard time finding lodging. They are planning to come from Dec 25th to Jan 4th. Budget is approx $300/night. Please contact Lorena.

Community Corner – Oct.10

WWS Spotlight

Maude Ash – Registrar & Admin Asst. at Whistler Waldorf

What is your role here at WWS?I am both the Registrar and Administrative Assistant

What exactly does a Registrar do?

My position as the registrar consists of managing the physical and digital student records – all the Ministry of Education stuff! I am the one to contact if you need any info that has to do with student files: personal information and contact details, course registration, issuing transcripts, etc.

In my Administrative Assistant role, I work closely with the Head of School, the Admission and HR departments and the Early Years Program.

Tell us a bit about yourself. Any fun facts to share?

I am originally from Quebec, I moved to BC about 18 years ago to escape the harsh winter. I lived in the Okanagan for many years before deciding to settle in Pemberton 6 years ago because it has the some of the most amazing opportunities for paragliding in Canada. I completed a Specialized Education Diploma and an Early Childhood Education – Infant and toddler diploma. I am currently enrolled in a bookkeeping/accounting course. I love traveling, listening to music and I love to knit hats for the BCCH NICU (Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit). I also have a 4.5 year old son who enjoys keeping me busy!

Bulletin Board Listings:

  • Teacher Accommodation Needed – Hello! My name is Olivia Hanna. I am currently teaching kindergarten at the Whistler Waldorf School. I am searching for a place to live in Whistler long term by mid November, but I can move in sooner. My budget is $1000-$1200  for a room in a shared house. Non-smoking. I have no pets. Tidy, quiet, 35 years old. Just moved to Whistler from Ontario in late summer. Hoping to spend free time skiing and enjoying the beautiful nature here. I also enjoy yoga, hiking, cooking and knitting. If you know of a room that might be a good fit, please send me an email or text. Thank you for your help! Pls. contact me at my email or 647-673-5891.
  • Christmas vacation rental needed: Intl. student Miguel’s family would like to visit over Christmas but having a hard time finding lodging. They are planning to come from Dec 25th to Jan 4th. Budget is approx $300/night. Please contact Lorena.

Honoring the strength of human will, courage & initiative at Michaelmas –

“Each student must face their own difficulties in life… and Michaelmas both educates and empowers the children to find the courage to take on and defeat their personal ‘dragons’ and let hope prevail.”                                Rubeena Sandhu – Head of School
There is no mistaking that the time for our annual Festival of Courage or Michaelmas is drawing near!  The weather has changed abruptly, and autumn is upon us. In our school, two different pictures are brought before the children at this time. One is the image of the fall harvest and the other is the image of the hero who tames the dragon.

In common with Waldorf schools around the world we celebrate Michaelmas to find hope and honor the strength of human will, courage and initiative. The festival coincides with equinox, a turning point in relation to light and darkness in the world. Each student must face their own difficulties in life, both internal and external, and Michaelmas both educates and empowers the children to find the courage to take on and defeat their personal “dragons” and let hope prevail.

The students have been busy this week preparing – our youngest students have dyed and sewn capes and crowns; Grade 1 & 2 will bake our bread; Grade 3 & 4 will prepare our soup, Grades 5 & 6 will bake cookies and Grades 7 and up will help set up and serve.

We look forward to having you join us tomorrow – Friday, October 4 at 12:00 to participate and enjoy a bowl of harvest soup!

Rubeena Sandhu –  Head of School

Community Corner – Oct.3

WWS Spotlight

Miguel Fernandez – Grade 8 International Student

Why did you decide to come to Whistler to study?: It is common in Mexico to study abroad in Grade 8 or 9. We had travelled to Whistler before and I enjoy skiing so it seemed like a good fit. I am from San Luis Potosí and do not go to a Waldorf School, but my parents were interested in having me experience a different method of learning.
And what do you think?: It is different, but it’s been really fun. I enjoy the arts aspect and there are more field trips and hands on things to do. I also studied Shakespeare here and that is new!
What’s been most surprising to you?: I think the people. The teachers talk more to the students and really try to make sure that we understand. All the people have been really nice.
Are there any must-do things on your list while you are here?: SKIING! I definitely want to go skiing.

Bulletin Board Listings:

  • Teacher Accommodation Needed – Hello! My name is Olivia Hanna. I am currently teaching kindergarten at the Whistler Waldorf School. I am searching for a place to live in Whistler long term by mid November, but I can move in sooner. My budget is $1000-$1200  for a room in a shared house. Non-smoking. I have no pets. Tidy, quiet, 35 years old. Just moved to Whistler from Ontario in late summer. Hoping to spend free time skiing and enjoying the beautiful nature here. I also enjoy yoga, hiking, cooking and knitting. If you know of a room that might be a good fit, please send me an email or text. Thank you for your help! Pls. contact me at my email or 647-673-5891.
  • Oct. 5th – Tout l’Monde Swingue (6-10pm) Howe Sound Performing Arts Association is pleased to provide an evening of traditional French Canadian music and dance. The all-ages cultural event will feature live music from Daniel Gervais and Roger Dallaire, with a silent auction, food trucks, and more! Join us on at Howe Sound Secondary School, 38430 Buckley Ave., Squamish. Tickets: $50/family; $20/adult; $10/child,  purchase online or email Howe Sound Also, check out our Facebook event.
  • Oct. 6-12 – Fire Prevention Week (FPW) & Contest… This year’s theme is: Not Every Hero Wears a Cape, Plan and Practice Your Escape. There will be 2 open houses – at the Whistler Village Fire Hall on Oct. 5 & on Oct.6th in Spring Creek. Both events run from 11-2pm. Have a meet and greet with local firefighters to learn more about the equipment, trucks and fire halls for the afternoon!  Also, the annual Fire Prevention Week Poster & Video Contest is now looking for submissions.
  • Oct. 7th – International Day of the Girl (6:45-9)… Millennium Place will feature three diverse female speakers exploring “equality for girls in Canada and around the world.” Doors open at 7 and tickets are $10 each. For more information, visit Arts Whistler.