Postgraduate Diploma in Waldorf Education with PGCE and QTS

The Postgraduate Diploma in Waldorf Education (Level 7), delivered by Emerson College and validated by the University of Buckingham, is a professional teacher training pathway for those wishing to become qualified Steiner Waldorf educators. This two-year programme includes a Postgraduate Certificate in Waldorf Education, a PGCE at Master’s level, and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), equipping graduates to teach in both Waldorf and mainstream education.

Blending online learning, mentored school-based practice and face-to-face residentials, the course provides a rigorous foundation in Waldorf philosophy, contemporary educational practice and professional teaching standards. An optional third year enables students to complete a full MA in Waldorf Education.

This is the UK's only employed-route Waldorf teacher training programme integrating PGCE and QTS.

This programme is suited to educators with a commitment to reflective practice, child development and the integrated artistic approach at the heart of Waldorf education.

It also supports those wishing to deepen their professional practice and gain recognised teacher training qualifications, including:

• Teaching assistants, learning mentors and cover teachers working in Steiner Waldorf schools.
• Aspiring Waldorf class teachers, subject specialists and Upper School educators
• Experienced Waldorf teachers looking for a Level 7 professional qualification
• Educators wishing to combine Steiner Waldorf pedagogy with UK recognised teaching certification (PGCE & QTS)

The employed route makes it especially suitable for those already working in a Steiner Waldorf or Waldorf inspired school.

Students will gain:

• An in-depth understanding of Steiner Waldorf philosophy, principles and contemporary practice
• A strong foundation in reflective, creative and artistic pedagogical work
• The skills and confidence to teach across a range of ages and subjects
• Supported, mentored experience in a Waldorf school environment
• Understanding of mainstream school expectations through a three-week placement
• Master’s-level academic writing and portfolio development
• Professional recognition through PGCE and QTS

Online sessions, in-school mentoring, coursework and immersive residential weekends support integrated professional and personal development.

Dates
14 September 2026 - July 2027

Format

Blended online learning, residential weekends and guided in-school teaching practice

Attendance

Employed route; supported by the student’s school

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Year 1 - Post-graduate Certificate in Waldorf Education (60 credits at Master's level)

Delivered by Emerson College

Module 1: Philosophy, Principles and 21st Century Practice in Waldorf Education (40 credits)

Weekly online sessions and study groups explore the foundations of Steiner Waldorf education and their relevance for today’s classrooms.

Module 2: Waldorf Artistic and Creative Practice (20 credits)

A blend of line sessions and three residential weekends (Emerson College & Steiner Academy Hereford), supporting artistic, creative and practical teaching skills.

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Year 2 - Post-graduate Teaching Apprenticeship with PGCE + QTS (60 credits)

Delivered by the University of Buckingham

• Work with a school-based mentor and University of Buckingham tutor
• Take on increasing teaching responsibility (up to 80% of timetable)
• Undertake a three-week mainstream school placement (Nov–Mar)
• Complete a teaching portfolio, academic assignments and professional assessments

Completing both years results in the Postgraduate Diploma in Waldorf Education.

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Optional Year 3 MA in Education (Waldorf Education)

A further 60-credit Master’s dissertation enables students to achieve a full MA in Education (Steiner Waldorf) awarded by the University of Buckingham.

 

Course Director
Fiona Sharpe

Deputy / Mentor Coordinator
Victoria Reakes

Course Tutors
Trevor Mepham, Dr Martyn Rawson, Jill Taplin, Kath Bransby, Sam Greshoff

Applicants must hold:

• Year 1 -UK bachelor’s degree (subject-relevant for Upper School teaching)
• Year 2 - UK bachelor's degree( in an appropriate subject for secondary specialism)*
• GCSE Grade C/4 or above* in English and Maths
• GCSE Grade C/4 or above* is required for primary specialism and science 
• * or recognised equivalent qualification

Additional criteria:

• Students must be employed by a Steiner Waldorf or Waldorf-inspired school
• Schools recommending candidates for PGCE with QTS must meet all Independent School Standards and must not have an "inadequate" inspection grade

Course fees:

• PG Certificate in Waldorf Education (Year 1): £4,750
• Postgraduate Apprenticeship with PGCE & QTS (Year 2): £1,450 (£450 apprenticeship levy + £1000 PGCE element)
• Optional MA in Education (Steiner Waldorf): £2,000

Additional costs: Accommodation, meals and travel for residential weekends.

Funding options include:

• Interest-free loans from the Godparents Anthroposophical Training Fund (GATF)
• Emerson College bursary support
• School-based contributions (where applicable)

Full details and deadlines are listed in the prospectus.

Applications are welcomed from graduates and practising educators who meet the course’s academic and professional requirements.

When applying, please provide:

• A completed online application form (via Emerson College)
• Evidence of an undergraduate degree (Level 6) or equivalent
• Evidence of Level 2 Maths and English (GCSE or internationally recognised equivalent)
• An up-to-date CV
• A personal statement outlining your interest in Waldorf education and teacher training
• Two professional or academic references
• A current Enhanced DBS check (or willingness to obtain one if accepted)
• Confirmation of employment or placement in a Waldorf school for the employed-route training

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to attend an interview and micro-teaching task.

For questions or support with your application, please contact: registrar@emerson.org.uk

Graduates are qualified to work as:

• Waldorf class teachers
• Subject specialists and Upper School educators
• Teachers in both Steiner and mainstream schools (via PGCE + QTS)

The optional Master’s year supports further academic and professional development.