Alternative schools, Steiner and Montessori education on the Gold Coast

On the Gold Coast, schools fall into two main categories: State Schools and Private Schools. State Schools are funded by the Queensland government and follow the state curriculum, while Private Schools vary widely in culture and teaching methods, with each school setting its own curriculum based on its charter. (read: State vs Private - How to choose the right school for you? for more on this topic)

While most private schools on the Gold Coast have a religious affiliation, a handful are independent, and an even smaller number follow alternative education philosophies such as Steiner or Montessori.

Below is an overview of the Gold Coast’s alternative education options, designed for families seeking a different approach to learning.

Steiner Schools on the Gold Coast

Benowa State High School, Benowa

Benowa SHS offers a Waldorf Steiner Excellence Program for students of Year 7 to Year 12. The program provides a creative and academic way of learning to extend students in all subject areas. Students accepted into the program undertake, Extension English, Mathematics, History, Geography, and the Sciences. In addition, a creative program including Visual Art, Music, Dance and Drama are interwoven throughout units of study and across the course.

Silkwood School, Mt Nathan

Nestled in the picturesque Gold Coast Hinterland, Silkwood School offers a progressive and personalised approach to education through its unique model, The Silkwood Way. While influenced by Rudolf Steiner and other developmental educators, Silkwood is a secular, co-educational school that has evolved beyond the traditional Steiner framework. Catering to students from Prep to Year 12, the school provides a dynamic and student-driven learning experience, focusing on small class sizes, innovative teaching methods, and real-world mentorship.

The Prep to Year 9 campus is set amidst the natural beauty of Mt Nathan, fostering a strong connection to the environment, while the dedicated Senior School campus (Years 10–12) in Robina, opened in 2022, supports students in preparing for their future pathways.

Steiner Schools near the Gold Coast

The nearest Steiner Schools for Gold Coast students are located across the border in Northern NSW including Aetaomah School in Terragon, Shearwater Steiner School in Mullumbimby and Cape Byron Rudolf Steiner School in Byron Bay. While the closest Steiner school located in Queensland is the Samford Valley Steiner School 30km Northwest of Brisbane.

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A comprehensive guide to special assistance schools on the Gold Coast

Montessori Schools on the Gold Coast

For families seeking a Montessori education on the Gold Coast, several Early Learning Centres incorporate Montessori principles into their programs. However, there are currently no Montessori primary or high schools in the region. The closest option for a full Montessori education beyond the early years is Brisbane Montessori School, located in Fig Tree Pocket, just southwest of Brisbane. This school offers a comprehensive Montessori curriculum from early childhood through to high school, providing a child-centred, hands-on learning approach that fosters independence, curiosity, and a love for learning.

Other Alternative Schools on the Gold Coast

The Village School Gold Coast, Coolangatta

Located in beautiful sea-side suburb of Coolangatta, The Village School opened its doors in 2021 for primary school students from Prep to Year 6 across two mixed-age classes. The School follows a mix of teaching philosophies that are child-focused and play- and skills-based and provide curiosity-led and place-based learning experiences with consistent low student to teacher ratios.

Toogoolawa School, Ormeau

Toogoolawa is a small school for boys from grades 3-10 who find it difficult to function in mainstream schools, particularly those boys who feel overwhelmed by large numbers of students and who respond better to small groups. Their teachings are designed around the five values of Truth, Love, Peace, Right Conduct and Non-violence. Mindfulness Meditation is central in its practices.

High Trees Primary, Currumbin Valley (COMING SOON)

Set to open soon in the heart of Currumbin Valley, High Trees Primary promises to offer a fresh and progressive approach to education, catering to children from Prep to Year 6. With NSSAB accreditation received and development approval pending, the school is now taking expressions of interest from families eager for a more personalised, nature-based learning experience. High Trees embraces a child-led, play-based philosophy, valuing emotional intelligence as highly as academic success. Learning will be deeply engaging, woven into students' natural curiosity rather than dictated by rigid schedules. Nestled on a stunning 10-acre property, the school will provide a rich and nurturing environment where children can explore, create, take risks, and truly love learning.