Question 1

How do I enrol my child at Wild Cherry?

Accepted Answer

Begin by contacting us to arrange a school tour. After visiting, you can submit an enrolment enquiry and meet with our principal to discuss your child's needs. We welcome families throughout the year, subject to availability.

Question 2

What are the school fees?

Accepted Answer

Our fees are structured to be accessible for families in the East Gippsland region. We offer a fee schedule that covers tuition, materials, and specialist programs. Please contact our office for the current fee schedule, and ask about our sibling discounts and payment plans.

Question 3

Can my child start mid-year?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we welcome new students throughout the year when places are available. We work with families to ensure a smooth transition, including settling-in visits and meetings with the class teacher.

Question 4

What does a typical day look like?

Accepted Answer

Each day begins with a main lesson block — an immersive two-hour session on a single subject. This is followed by a short break, then practice lessons in subjects like mathematics or English. After lunch, children enjoy specialist subjects such as music, handcraft, eurythmy, foreign languages, or sport. The rhythm of concentration and relaxation supports deep learning.

Question 5

What are the school hours?

Accepted Answer

School hours are 8:45am to 3:15pm, Monday to Friday. Our office is open 9am to 3pm during term time. Playgroup runs Monday and Tuesday 9am to 11am. Kindergarten sessions are: 3-year-old program on Wednesday (8:45am–12pm), 4-year-old program Thursday and Friday (8:45am–3:15pm).

Question 6

Do you provide before and after school care?

Accepted Answer

Please contact our office to discuss current before and after school care arrangements. We understand the needs of working families and are committed to supporting flexible options where possible.

Question 7

What is Steiner/Waldorf education?

Accepted Answer

Steiner education is a holistic approach that nurtures the whole child — head (thinking), heart (feeling), and hands (doing). Founded by Rudolf Steiner over 100 years ago, it recognises that children develop through distinct stages and tailors the curriculum accordingly. Learning is brought alive through storytelling, arts, music, movement, and practical activities.

Question 8

Is the curriculum accredited?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Wild Cherry operates under the Australian Steiner Curriculum Framework. Our school is registered and meets all Victorian regulatory requirements. The curriculum satisfies national standards while maintaining the distinctive richness of Steiner education.

Question 9

Why do Steiner schools delay formal reading and writing?

Accepted Answer

Steiner education recognises that children under seven learn best through play, imitation, and sensory experience — not formal instruction. Literacy foundations are built through rich oral storytelling, songs, rhymes, and movement. When formal instruction begins in Class 1, children are developmentally ready and embrace learning with enthusiasm.

Question 10

What is eurythmy?

Accepted Answer

Eurythmy is a movement art unique to Steiner schools. Through graceful, purposeful movements, children express music and language with their whole body. It develops coordination, spatial awareness, social skills, and a deep connection between inner experience and outer expression.

Question 11

Are there additional costs beyond tuition fees?

Accepted Answer

Tuition fees cover most costs including materials and specialist programs. There may be occasional voluntary contributions for excursions or special events. We strive to keep additional costs minimal and communicate them well in advance.

Question 12

Is financial assistance available?

Accepted Answer

We believe Steiner education should be accessible to all families. Please speak with our principal in confidence about your circumstances — we do our best to find solutions that make enrolment possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

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