We are proud to share that Warrah Specialist School has received a 5-Star Employer of Choice Award for 2025 from The Educator Australia.
This national recognition celebrates schools that are leading the way in building people-first workplaces, where wellbeing, professional development, and a shared sense of purpose are at the heart of school culture.
In a time when educator burnout and teacher shortages are high across the country, this award means a great deal to us. It reflects the deep commitment we have made to supporting our staff, and making Warrah Specialist School a top place to work.
It’s an exciting year for us. In May, we were also honoured to be named a finalist for Special Education School of the Year, with the winner to be announced in August.
More than a Workplace – A Community
At Warrah Specialist School, we believe that a supportive, respectful, and inclusive culture is the foundation for educational excellence. This award confirms what we already know to be true: when we care for our staff, everyone benefits.
The 5-Star Employee of Choice Award is based on anonymous employee feedback across five key pillars: wellbeing, compensation, culture, growth opportunities, and diversity/inclusion.
Schools that achieved a 75% or greater satisfaction score from staff were selected as award recipients. We are honoured to be among them.
Our 2024 Staff Survey Tells the Same Story
The insights from this award echo our recent 2024 staff survey, where we received a 100% response rate and results well above National Independent Schools benchmarks.
- 90% of our staff report positive wellbeing — 11% above the benchmark for Independent Schools
- 86% of staff report strong engagement, feeling inspired and connected to their work
- 90% of our team feel confident in the school’s direction and progress, describing a culture that is values-led and child-centred
In the words of our staff, Warrah Specialist School provides:
“A safe, positive and supportive work environment.”
“Leadership that values people.”
“Commitment to the Steiner ethos.”
“Person-centred practices.”
What Makes Warrah Special?
According to The Educator, what sets 5-Star schools apart is their ability to go beyond the basics – focusing on wellbeing, offering real opportunities for professional growth, and listening to staff.
We’re proud that these are all things our team say we do well.
As one staff member recently shared:
“There’s a strong sense of care here, for each other, for our students, and for the mission we all share.”
Thank You to Our Staff
This award is for every one of our amazing staff. We’re so proud of the heart and effort they bring every day, always going the extra mile and meeting each student where they’re at. Together, we’re building something really special here at Warrah Specialist School.
About Warrah Specialist School
Warrah Specialist School is the only Steiner based specialist school in Australia. We deliver high-quality, personalised K-12 education for children with intellectual disabilities and complex learning needs.
We follow Rudolf Steiner’s pedagogical philosophy and provide a unique and creative outdoor curriculum. Situated on an extensive bushland site, which includes an organic farm shop, artisan bakery, and Sydney’s only biodynamic farm. Our school provides a natural and idyllic environment where students thrive.
Our specialised, therapeutic curriculum weaves literacy and numeracy with practical, hands-on learning, including life skills, traditional arts and crafts, weaving, farming and cooking.
Each stage of learning builds upon the last, guiding students from Kindergarten to Year 12 with care and intention.
In Kindergarten, the focus is on nurturing social skills, establishing a sense of safety and belonging. Through story, song, art, verse, and a strong daily rhythm, children develop confidence and connection.
As students progress through primary and high school, the curriculum expands to support academic goals, personal growth, independence, and essential life skills.
