Providing Transformative Education Across the Guelph Region
Since 1996, the Trillium Waldorf School (TrWS) has been offering a transformative, values-based education to families in Guelph and surrounding communities. Today, with over 160 students enrolled from Kindergarten through Grade 8, along with a vibrant Parent & Child program and a growing Summer Camp, TrWS continues to serve families from across the Tri-Cities and Centre Wellington regions.
Alumni often credit their years at TrWS with shaping their ability to thrive—not only in post-secondary education but also in their careers, relationships, and contributions to their communities. The school’s unique approach nurtures intellectual curiosity, emotional intelligence, and a deep sense of social responsibility.
Trillium Waldorf School is an independent, not-for-profit charitable organization, fully accredited as a member of both the Waldorf Early Childhood Association of North America (WECAN) and the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA).
TrWS is also committed to fostering a Healthy School Culture—an initiative that supports faculty and students in addressing social and emotional challenges collaboratively and compassionately. Rooted in restorative practices, this approach cultivates respectful conflict resolution, strong parent partnerships, and the development of essential relational skills students need to navigate today’s complex world.
A School Rooted in Community, Growing for the Future
For over 25 years, the Trillium Waldorf School has demonstrated steady enrolment growth and prudent financial stewardship. From its humble beginnings to its vibrant present, the school has consistently taken thoughtful, community-supported steps to meet the needs of its expanding student body.
When TrWS moved to its current home on Victoria Road—originally built through the generosity of one of the founding members — it needed additional classrooms to support growth. Community-backed loans and bonds were raised to fund these expansions and have been repaid in full over time.
In 2021, the school community united once again, successfully raising $1 million in donations and $1 million in community bonds to purchase the property from the founders. In addition a $2 million mortgage was arranged with the founders, with a plan to transfer it to a new lender by October 2025.
Resilience in a Changing World
Like many independent schools, The Trillium Waldorf School faced challenges in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, including a temporary dip in enrolment and rising operational costs associated with now owning and maintaining its campus. In response, the school implemented a number of strategic financial measures and continues to evolve its governance and operations to meet changing external conditions.
Now, Trillium is thriving once again with:
160 students enrolled for the 2025–26 school year
A renewed Board of Directors, grounded in purpose and oversight
A dynamic leadership team and dedicated faculty, committed to Waldorf education
With a long-term, affordable mortgage in place, the Trillium Waldorf School will be able to deepen its impact by continuing to offer:
- Sustainable, independent Waldorf education in north Guelph for families across the region
- Tuition assistance for diverse families, including an Indigenous Tuition Waiver Program
- Faculty development and retention, ensuring quality and continuity in the classroom
- Community outreach, including Early Years programs, Summer Camps, and educational workshops