Family School
Education: A Cornerstone of the Company and a Tool for Social Transformation
With over a century of experience in glass packaging production and a presence in Brazil since 1952, the WHEATON Group is a national leader and one of the largest global suppliers of glass packaging for the Perfumery, Cosmetics, Pharmaceutical, and Food industries. Based in São Bernardo do Campo, the company employs approximately 3,500 people and supports 6,000 individuals in its ecosystem, including 850 employees with school-aged children. Currently, the municipality faces a shortage of 3,000 school spaces to meet local demand.
With a strong social commitment, Wheaton has gone beyond business to contribute to the education and social development of the region.
A Transformative Initiative
In 2020, Wheaton founded Escola da Família (Family School) as part of its mission to strengthen Brazil's and São Bernardo do Campo’s social foundations. Inspired by Waldorf Pedagogy and rooted in anthroposophy, the school offers education through a 100% philanthropic investment model, welcoming the children of Wheaton employees. Waldorf Pedagogy emphasizes the holistic development of the human being as a harmonious physical, mental, and spiritual entity.
In addition to employing specialized pedagogues and teachers, the Family School also integrates former Wheaton factory employees who have been trained in Waldorf pedagogy. Today, these employees serve as teachers and assistants, playing a vital role in the initiative. The Family School not only educates children but also recognizes its responsibility to shape engaged and well-rounded citizens, including adults.
The project includes a “school within a school” concept, blending conceptual and practical methods with a solid theoretical foundation for ongoing teacher development. As part of this effort, 18 Wheaton factory employees underwent anthroposophical training to contribute to the school's mission.
Working with Families: An Active Community
Wheaton’s Family School goes beyond focusing solely on children; it actively involves the entire family in its educational mission. Education is seen as a means to transcend the school’s walls, influencing every environment where the child and their family live and interact. By fostering experience-sharing among families, the school creates a support network that nurtures a true sense of community.
The school employs two dedicated teachers to strengthen family engagement. One provides daily, individualized support, while the other holds parent group meetings three times a week.
Currently focused on early childhood, the school educates 60 children up to six years old and their families, with plans to expand to 150 children by 2027. Parents are encouraged to actively collaborate with the school, fostering stronger bonds and promoting a culture of active participation. The school operates in a spacious, purpose-designed house featuring customized spaces and furniture that support its mission.
Inspiration for the Future: A Model to Follow
Wheaton’s Family School is more than an educational initiative; it serves as an inspiration for other companies to invest in social development. Through private investment in high-quality education, Wheaton demonstrates that businesses can significantly contribute to community well-being, positioning themselves as transformative agents in society.
Key Features
• Focus on early childhood education: Currently serves 60 children up to six years old, with plans to expand to 150 by 2027.
• 100% philanthropic investment: Inspired by Waldorf pedagogy.
• Organic meals: Provides 100% organic food for students.
• Welcoming environment: Warm and thoughtfully designed spaces.
• Engaged staff: Includes teachers recruited and trained from Wheaton’s factory workforce.
• Support for families: Focuses on parenting support and creating a community network.
• Ongoing development: Emphasizes continuous teacher training and professional growth.
