Julie Lam: Early Childhood Education Pioneer
Creating exceptional environments where young children and families thrive.
In 1992, Julie Lam founded Highgate House School with a heartfelt vision: to create a nurturing environment where children aged 0-6 could thrive by meeting their real developmental needs. What began as one mother’s determination to find “something better” has evolved into a transformative approach that has redefined how we understand and support the crucial early years.
Julie’s approach emphasizes personalized, holistic education that honors each child’s unique pace. She creates spaces where children feel supported, recognized, and connected—with strong partnerships between families and educators underpinning everything she does. Her philosophy is rooted in listening to children and fostering environments where they can develop confidence, resilience, and a genuine love of learning.
Global Impact and Legacy
Julie’s influence extends worldwide through her consultation work with schools and training programs for early years professionals. Drawing from diverse cultural perspectives, she crafts an inclusive, holistic approach that nurtures the whole child, laying a foundation for lifelong wellbeing and growth.
In 2025, Julie published “From the Heart of Childhood: Reclaiming Presence for Connection”—capturing decades of insights from working with hundreds of families. This book serves as both her educational legacy and an ongoing resource for the Highgate House community, offering deeper understanding of the principles that guide our approach.
Publication
From the Heart of Childhood: Reclaiming Presence for Connection (2025) – The foundation of Julie’s work supporting parents and educators
Learn more about Julie’s continuing work: julie-lam.com
“The older two of three our children (Portia and Sean) were very fortunate to attend Highgate House when we were living in Hong Kong. There were many times where we wished that we’d stayed for a couple more years in Hong Kong so that our youngest (Timmy) could also have the benefit of the Highgate education. Here’s why… Highgate is an excellent pre-school. The teachers at Highgate were not just well trained in the ways of Steiner Waldorf, they were also dedicated and highly qualified pr… Read more
“Highgate House shaped me as the mother I am today,I spent my early days as a mother here. Highgate House shaped me as the mother I am today. My kids spent their early days as little people here. Highgate House shaped them as the adults they will be in the future. Highgate House gifted as with the imagination & creativity we have today… Read more