The Camphill School & Transition Program

For more than 60 years, The Camphill School has helped children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities grow, learn, and thrive through education, therapy, meaningful work, and community life.

Located in the beautiful countryside of northern Chester County, Pennsylvania, our two campuses provide a continuum of support from kindergarten through young adulthood. Through a unique blend of education, therapy, nature, arts, and community, we help each student develop their abilities, build confidence, and participate more fully in life.

Our vibrant community is enriched by live-in volunteers from around the world who help create a warm, culturally diverse environment where students, volunteers, faculty, and staff learn and grow together.

Explore our live-in volunteer opportunities.

Two Campuses, One Mission

Main Campus: The Camphill School (K–12)

A Living Education

The Camphill School is the only Waldorf school in North America dedicated exclusively to serving children with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Our Main Campus Beaver Run provides an adapted Waldorf curriculum with individualized support to meet each student’s unique strengths and needs from Kindergarten through 12th grade. Students engage in both academic and experiential learning while developing social, emotional, practical, and creative skills.

What Makes Our Program Unique?

• Adapted Waldorf education from kindergarten through 12th grade
• Small-group and individualized instruction
• Integrated therapeutic support throughout the school day
• Music, art, movement, and nature-based learning
• Residential and extended-family living opportunities
• A nurturing community that supports the whole child

Integrated Therapies

Therapy is woven into daily life and learning. Services include:

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Art therapy
• Music therapy
• Therapeutic eurythmy
• Rhythmical massage
• Color light therapy

Transition Program at Beaver Farm (Ages 18–21)

Preparing for Meaningful Adult Life

Located ten miles from the main campus, Beaver Farm is a 133-acre biodynamic and organic farm bordering French Creek. The Transition Program serves young adults ages 18–21, helping them develop the skills, confidence, and independence needed for adulthood.

Through meaningful work, continued academics, community living, and vocational experiences, students gain practical skills while growing in responsibility, self-esteem, and social maturity.

Day and boarding options are available.

Prevocational & Work-Based Learning

Students participate in a wide variety of hands-on activities, including:

• Animal care
• Farming and land stewardship
• Gardening and food production
• Herb processing
• Pottery, weaving, and felting
• Flower growing, arranging, and sales
• Cooking and food processing
• Catering and meal preparation for the community

Working alongside volunteers, faculty, and staff, students experience the dignity of meaningful work while building a strong foundation for adult life.

A Global Volunteer Community

Volunteering at The Camphill School and Transition Program offers a unique opportunity to live in community, gain valuable experience, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and young adults.

As a live-in volunteer, you will:

• Build relationships with students and community members
• Gain hands-on experience in education, social care, and community living
• Develop leadership, communication, and practical life skills
• Experience a rich cultural exchange with volunteers from around the world
• Enjoy a lifestyle connected to nature, arts, and meaningful work

Whether you are taking a gap year, exploring a career path, or seeking a life-changing experience, Camphill offers an opportunity to grow while helping others do the same.

Learn more about becoming a live-in volunteer.