Introduction and Aims

Emerson College is an international centre for transformational learning, where students of all ages, and from 40 countries, join an innovative learning community. At Emerson, self-awareness is the foundation for making a difference in your personal life, your career and for the planet. Be inspired, unlock your creativity and explore a new vision for your self and for society.

At Emerson, you will find amazing teachers, a diverse student body and a beautiful location in the English countryside, south of London. Learning at Emerson converges on the fields of holistic education (Waldorf Steiner Teacher Training; unfortunately not on offer at this time, this Teacher Training is now held as a part-time training in Gloucestershire), biodynamic agriculture and sustainability (Biodynamic Agriculture Training), and social and artistic renewal in the visual arts (Visual Arts and Sculpture) and in the performing arts (School of Storytelling). In each field there are substantial practical achievements worldwide which draw their inspiration from a common source - anthroposophy and the work of Rudolf Steiner. Emerson College was founded in 1962 by the educational pioneer, Francis Edmunds (1902-1989).

Transformational learning requires a deep and holistic engagement in the learning process as well as in the content of learning. At Emerson College, the course leaders strive towards balance in the curriculum so that a particular theme is approached through lectures, discussion groups, individual projects, practical work and different art forms. We take seriously the reality and opportunity of an international, multi-generational learning community.

Contemporary life urges us to develop new perceptions and new possibilities for creative, collaborative action. In accredited and non-accredited courses, education at Emerson supports individuals to transform their perceptions and grow their potential for creative action.

Natural science and its achievements stem from the fundamental human desire to understand the world. Its methods require accurate observation and exact thinking. The materialism often associated with the scientific attitude derives from a way of looking at the world and not the facts themselves. Rudolf Steiner's own scientific training brought him into contact with Johann Wolfgang von Goethe's studies of nature; Goethe's holistic science methodology characterizes the college's approach to knowledge. Artistic practice and artistic ‘knowing' are central to this holistic science.

Practicing the arts and craft strengthens our creative core and teaches reverence for the substances of the earth. Arts and craft are emphasized in all courses. The arts offered include eurythmy, sculpture, painting, form drawing, creative speech, drama, storytelling, creative writing, music and Bothmer gymnastics. The crafts build sound thinking in relation to the practice of new skills - and are offered in weaving, puppetry, woodwork and metalwork.

The philosophy that underlies the work of Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) embraces a profound spiritual and practical understanding of the human being, society, our planet and the wider cosmos. In presenting the results of his research, Steiner sought to awaken individuals to their own spiritual experiences and life questions and to encourage attentiveness to the expressions of spirit in daily life. He described methods of personal development that each individual can follow in full freedom. Anthroposophy finds practical applications in many spheres, including education, art, sciences, medicine, social science, history, philosophy, architecture and agriculture.

• What is Anthroposophy?
• Life at the College