24pg autumn education supplement

PRIVATE, PUBLIC OR INTERNATIONAL?THE BEST SCHOOL FOR YOUR CHILD

EDUCATIONAutumn 2015

WHAT ARE THEY TEACHING MY KID?Insight into the Danish schools’ learning process

THE FOUNDATIONS OF LEARNINGQUALITY EDUCATION FOR ALL!

TEENAGE LEARNING:

ALL THE OPTIONS!

You are never too old to learn!Enrol in adult vocational training

September is upon us, and the summer is draw-

ing to a close. This can only mean one thing for

young students, the start of a new school year.

Whether your child is starting out in the Danish

education system, or returning to a new phase

– this supplement will provide you with all you

need to know when it comes to schooling your

kids – and so much more.

In this supplement, not only will you be guid-

ed on the different levels or forms of education

available in Denmark, but also on the variety or

types of schools, programmes and opportuni-

ties available to students, both Danish and in-

ternational. As Denmark attracts many foreign

workers to its kingdom, there is quite a variety

of international schools which cater for stu-

dents who are not English or Danish-speaking.

In addition, we take a look at adult learning in

the form of vocational training as well as job

prospects for the newly-graduated.

So whether you are a prospective student or

parent investigating the schooling opportunities

for your child, this supplement has all the in-

formation you need to make the best of your

Danish education.

OVERVIEW OF THE EDUCATION SYSTEMEducation is compulsory in Denmark for every-

one between the ages of six or seven and 16.

Whether the education is received in a publicly

provided school, in a private school or at home,

is a matter of individual choice, as long as ac-

cepted standards are met. It is education itself

that is compulsory, not school.

These levels of education are compulsory:

Primary and lower secondary education

Upper secondary education

Danish is the medium of instruction in schools.

However, English is a compulsory subject in

the Folkeskole (from Year 1, as of 2014) and in

general, upper secondary school. Most univer-

sity-level institutions offer various courses and

programmes in English.

The academic year runs from August/Septem-

ber to June.

After upper secondary education, teenagers

may choose to continue their learning by opting

for either:

Vocational education and training

Higher education

Efterskole

The final level of education in Denmark comes

in the form of adult learning.

Before starting pre-school most children in

Denmark attend day-care services such as

nurseries and kindergarten. Pre-school, which is

optional, is followed by nine years of compul-

sory education in primary and lower secondary

schooling, with an option to complete a tenth

form. The upper secondary education system

includes a range of opportunities for students

to further their basic education at the higher

and vocational levels. Academic programmes

at these levels allow students to apply for entry

to higher education, offered at university level.

Vocational programmes, however, are aimed at

direct entry to the labour market.

Source: http://ufm.dk/en

SCHOOLING FOR ALLGet schooled on all that you need to know about the education system in Denmark.

President and Publisher: Ejvind Sandal ● Editor: David Nothling ● Layout: Lyndsay Jensen ● Commercial Director: Hans Hermansen,

[email protected], Tel: +45 2420 2411 ● Picture credit for images: Thinkstock & various education facilities

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

LEARNING IN FOCUS AT NGG INTERNATIONAL


Since 13th August, students and teachers at NGG Interna-

tional have been busy with their core business – learning.

The school’s newly appointed Head of International, Ka-

ren Bøttger made a welcoming speech to open the school

year and outlined some of the well-earned successes

that the school, located just 25 minutes north of Copen-

hagen, has achieved in the past semester. These include

our first set of IGCSE results of which we are very proud

and an expanding after school activity and enrichment

programme for the new school year. ‘Our aim is to make

learning central in everything we do here at NGG Interna-

tional’, explains Karen Bøttger. ‘The learning experiences

are carefully planned, not only with academic goals in

mind, but also with the intent of developing the attributes

in students that are necessary for the workplaces of the

future.’

The entire school of Nordsjaelland Grundskole og Gym-

nasium has a new and ambitious principal in Claus Re-

inholdt Campeotto who explains that even though the

school is in a dynamic phase of development, we hold

on to the traditions that are the foundations of NGG. ‘We

know what is necessary for every single student to reach

his or her potential – both academically and personally’.

The International school continues to expand and cur-

rently provides international education for more than 220

students from more than 40 nationalities. On 19th Sep-

tember, families, students and the school will hold their

annual International Day from 10:00-13:00. The focus of

the day will be one of welcome and celebration of the

many cultures that make up NGG International.

INTERNATIONAL DAY 2015September 19th, 10:00am - 1:00pm

At NGG in the big gym - Christianshusvej 16, 2970 Hørsholm

This Year’s Theme - Food & Cooking

Delicious Food from around the World!

Fun Activities

& Games

Performances

PTA Raffle - Culinary Treats Baskets from around the world to

Win!See You There!

Music &

Dance

Parade of

Nations Cooking Demonstrations

Learn about

Cultures &

Countries

NGGI PTA

Let’s Celebrate!

Join us!

S T R U E R- G Y M . D K

LEARN MORE!WITH US AT

STRUER STATSGYMNASIUM AND BOARDING SCHOOL,

Your home away f rom home. . .

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If you are new to Denmark, and unsure at what level to enrol your child into the Danish school-ing system, we have compiled a need-to-know guide detailing all that is pertinent regarding the different phases of education on offer.

COMPULSORY LEARNINGThis phase of learning in Denmark, basic edu-cation, is compulsory and lasts 10 years (0 to 9) with an optional year 10. Primary and lower secondary education is integrated within a sin-

gle structure and is provided by:

Municipal schools (“Folkeskole”)

Private schools

Continuation schools

The education system is financed by the state

or the municipalities. Some institutions are

self-governing, while others are owned by the

state or the municipalities. Continuation schools

depend on a large degree of state funding. Pu-

pils at continuation schools do have to pay a

tuition fee but the amount varies – and is subsi-

dised by the state – depending on the parents’

income. Average annual tuition fee (2005) per

pupil amounts to DKK 25,000 excluding state subsidies.

FROM BØRNEHAVN TO MUNICIPAL LEARNINGBefore starting pre-school, most children in

Denmark benefit from day-care services such

as nurseries and kindergarten. Pre-school,

which is optional, is followed by primary and

lower secondary schooling.

Pre-primary school

All young children in Denmark have the option

of enrolment in a child care centre. There are 4

THE FOUNDATIONS OF LEARNING

a variety of child care options for newborns up to children who are

six years of age. Each municipality determines its own overall goals

and framework of child care options. If you choose to go the public

school route, there are hundreds of pre-primary and primary and

lower secondary schools to choose from in each municipality.

Day cares and nurseries are suitable for children between the ages

of six months and two to three years, who are taken care of by a

child minder at her home. There can be up to four children apart

from the child minders own children. If two child minders decide to

work together, they can take care of up to 10 children. Most child

minders are women. The nurseries differ from day cares as they are

equipped with toys for children in the different age groups, and also

have outdoor areas with swings, sandpits etc., and the children are

regularly taken on excursions. Private day care is also available,

and some municipalities will even subsidies parents who send their

children to these schools. For more information on private day care,

visit www.privatdagplejedanmark.dk.

Crèche or Kindergarten is for children aged three to about six or sev-

en years of age. The institutions vary in size, but on average there

are six children per kindergarten teacher.

The Folkeskole

The Danish Folkeskole is a comprehensive school covering both pri-

mary (years 1 to 6) and lower secondary education (years 7-9/10)

stage basic education, or in other words it caters for seven to 17

year-olds. There are three main types of schools at this level of

instruction; the Folkeskole, private elementary schools, and contin-

uation schools.

The Folkeskole constitutes the free, public school system as well as

the individual municipal schools, that is to say the places where the

teaching takes place. On the national level, the Danish Folkeskole is

regulated by the Folkeskole Act, which provides the overall frame-

work for the schools’ activities. The Danish folkeskole provides nine

years of compulsory education free of charge. It also offers optional

pre-school classes and an optional 10th form. The aim is to contrib-

ute to the all-round academic, social, and personal development of

the individual child by providing subject-specific qualifications and

preparing pupils for living in a democratic society. Pupils and par-

ents or guardians must accordingly receive information about the

child’s academic and social performance at school at least twice a

year.

The Minister of Education is responsible for setting the targets of

achievement for each subject taught in the folkeskole; however,

local authorities and schools are free to decide on how to reach

these. The Ministry of Education provides curriculum guidelines for

each subject; the guidelines are merely recommendations, and the

schools are allowed to formulate their own curricula as long as they

are in accordance with the overall target levels. Most schools ap-

pear to employ the guidelines articulated by the Ministry.

Sources: http://studyindenmark.dk/; http://ufm.dk/; http://www.icye.org/; http://www.efterskole.dk/; http://www.fus.dk/

The Danish primary and second-ary schooling system at a glance.

The education system is financed

by the state or the municipalities.“ “

Whether you are a Danish parent exploring the options for educating your

child, or you are new to Denmark and looking to make a permanent move

to the country with your family, there are several options to consider when

it comes to schooling.

CHOOSING A TYPE OF SCHOOLYou have three main options when choosing a school in Denmark for your

child; a Danish public school, a Danish private school or an international

school. Let’s consider the options available to you:

Public schools

Danish public schools have the advantage of being free. In some areas,

they are excellent. Technically you’re supposed to have ‘free choice’ of pub-

lic schools, which means you can choose any school in your kommune that

has room for your child.

In August 2014, the most comprehensive school reform in modern Danish

history came into effect. The most noteworthy change came in the form of

a longer school day. Children in years 0-3 (ages 6-9) now have 30 hours

of school each week, while students in years 4-6 (ages 10-12) will have 33

hours per week and those in years 7-9 (ages 13-15) will be in class for 35

hours per week. The overall goal of the reform is to raise the students’ level

of education. Students will spend more hours learning Danish and maths,

as well as a daily average of 45 minutes of physical activity. The reform

also includes a stronger focus on foreign languages, with students now

learning English in first grade rather than third, and being introduced to a

second foreign language beginning in fifth grade.

In practice, the best public schools are often full, and as of the start of the

2014/15 school year, Danish public schools are now more geared towards a

better quality education for your kids.

Private schools

Danish private schools are becoming more popular with Danish parents, 6


FINDING THE RIGHT SCHOOL: PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR INTERNATIONAL?

Live, Learn & Laugh!“I chose IB at Grenaa Gymnasium because it has experience with the IB and because the school has a good atmosphere. The Boarding School is a great place to live. It is easy to feel at home because of the supportive and accepting environment.”

Karoline, IB-student

“Teachers are engaging and love their subjects, making it more interesting for us as students.” Christoffer, IB-student

“The Boarding School - a synonym for freedom, learn-spirit, comfort and home.”

Radu, IB-student

“The attitude and the framework in the IB programme is of an impressive standard and we are happy that our daughter has the opportunity to take part in this.”

Parent in Australia

“I take this opportunity to thank Grenaa for the best year of my son’s school life as he described it.” Parent in Ireland

GRENAA GYMNASIUMIB ● STX ● HF ● BOARDING SCHOOL

WWW.GRENAA-GYM.DK

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Is Danish learning foreign to you? We help you discover the best school for you and your child.

however getting into a prestigious private school can be difficult and the

waiting list is usually long for kindergarten, but often not so much for the

higher grades. It is important to note that private schools in Denmark are

not just for the rich, as many do get a state subsidy per student, and tuition

varies from school to school.

Denmark has a tradition of private schools with a substantial government

subsidy. This tradition mainly originates in the ideas and initiatives of the

clergyman, poet and politician, N.F.S. Grundtvig (1783-1872), and the teach-

er, Christen Kold (1816-1870). On the basis of their ideas about “a school

for life based on the living word”, the first “folk high school” for adults was

founded in 1844 and the first “free school” (private independent school) for

children in 1852. They were in particular meant to serve the rural popula-

tion. The ideas of Grundtvig and Kold had such an impact on the political

thinking of their time that they were written into the democratic Constitu-

tion adopted by Denmark in 1915. It stipulates general compulsory educa-

tion - not compulsory school attendance.

About 13% of all children at basic school level (including the voluntary pre-

school class and 10th form) attend private schools. In 2006, approximately

91 000 children attended 491 private schools, while 690 000 pupils attend-

ed the municipal school, of which there are approximately 600. Private

schools in Denmark may be roughly divided into the following categories:

Small independent schools in rural districts (friskoler).

Large independent schools in urban districts (privatskoler).

Religious or congregational schools.

Progressive, free schools.

Schools with a particular educational aim,

such as the Rudolf Steiner schools .

German minority schools.

Immigrant schools.

The bottom line is that private schools will be

recognised and receive government financing

regardless of the ideological, religious, political

or ethnic motivation behind their establishment.

Some private schools are very old, some are

quite new, and new ones are still being added. It

is characteristic of the private schools that they

are smaller (in terms of student size) than the

municipal schools.

International schools

If you are a foreign national living in Denmark,

and want an international education for your

child, you should consider one of the many in-

ternational schools available in and around Co-

penhagen.

There are a number of international schools

in Denmark where teaching is carried out in a

language other than Danish. Most international

schools operate according to the rules for private

schools and receive a state subsidy.

The students at international schools include

Danish students who wish to be taught in a

foreign language and foreign students who do

not speak Danish. Even though the teaching

at these schools is carried out in a foreign lan-

guage, non-Danish students typically receive

supplemental instruction in Danish language

and culture. These schools are located through-

out Denmark, although most are found close to

Copenhagen.

International schools may seem the perfect solu-

tion for an expat student (multinational corpo-

ration executives, children of diplomats, NGO

staff) living in Denmark. There may be some

Danish students at these schools, but they are

usually geared for an international student body.

Schools may follow a curriculum model from

the US, UK, or France. Primary instruction may

be in any language (and multiple languages

are usually taught), but it is usually in English,

French, Spanish, German, or Japanese. These

schools provide similar standards of schooling

around the globe, providing for an easy transi-

tion between schools whether they are in France

or Vietnam. Schools also provide internationally

accepted accreditation such as the international

baccalaureate.

For an expat the decision to enrol your child in

one of the international schools in Denmark can

be a dilemma. This is because parents have to

choose between their child learning in their na-

tive language (attending the appropriate inter-

national school) or learning the Danish culture

and integrating into Danish society (attending a

Danish public or private school).

At an international school students will be

taught Danish as part of the curriculum, yet the

environment will be more international than

Danish. The Danish schools will offer the student

the chance to assimilate into Danish society and

culture quicker, make Danish friends and learn

the language quicker too. However, since Danish

schools will teach in Danish, the student will be forced to learn more Danish.

Some of the other deciding factors when it comes to choosing the right school for

your child will be where you live, how long will you be staying in Denmark, the

age of your child and how much you can afford to spend, as some internation-

al schools are not cheap. The costs of tuition for an international school starts

around DKK 20 000 per year and can go as high as DKK 100 000. This will vary

from school to school, and is only a general guideline. It is up to you to check

with the schools for exact prices and possible discounts for families with more

than one child attending, or if you are able to receive a subsidy from your munic-

ipality. There may be a waiting list for some international schools, so plan early

if relocating to Denmark, and check with the school for availability and reserve a

spot early.

Sources: http://www.expatindenmark.com/; http://education.stateuniversity.com/; http://www.thelo-cal.dk/; https://www.workindenmark.dk; http://www.fyidenmark.com/; http://www.lfph.dk/

STRUER STATSGYMNASIUM

A DISTINCTLY INTERNATIONAL

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the school, and attend our International

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Our open, democratic and academically challenging

learning environment, coupled with the beautiful sur-

roundings of the school, offers students who board

much more than a quality education. Our boarding

school offers many activities (both sports and cul-

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WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE STRUER STATSGYMNASIUM?We are an experienced IB school.

We achieve excellent results every year.

We aim to get the best out of each student.

We offer great boarding and physical activity/

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For more information contact: Tel. 97 854300 or [email protected].


TEENAGE LEARNING: THE MANY OPTIONS

After lower and upper secondary schooling,

learners qualify for access to upper secondary,

higher education and vocational or technical ed-

ucation, this level of education prepares them for

access to the labour market. It normally caters

for the 16-19-year-olds, and comprises:

Gymnasium

Vocational education and training

programmes

Efterskole

This level of education is for learners who what

to either through general education qualify for

access to higher education or for those wishing

to pursue vocational or technical education qual-

ifying primarily for access to the labour market.

‘HIGH SCHOOL’Gymnasium is the higher preparatory examina-

tion or HF-programme, the higher commercial

examination or HHX-programme and the high-

er technical examination or HTX-programme.

These programmes at Gymnasium level are de-

signed to prepare learners for higher education,

and ensure that they acquire general education,

knowledge and competences by means of the

subjects. STX, HHX and HTX take three years

to complete and admit young people who have

completed nine years of basic school. HF takes

two years and admits persons who have com-

pleted 9/10 years of basic school.

This form of upper secondary education is

attended by as many as 53 percent of all

school-leavers and is the most traditional type

of upper secondary school. The programmes

contain a general education that also prepares

students for higher education. Denmark has ap-

proximately 295 gymnasiums and HFs, of which

85 percent are publicly owned; the state covers

the cost of these. The remaining 15 percent are

private institutions; the State subsidises 80 to 85

percent of the costs of these.

VOCATIONAL TRAININGVocational education and other post-basic ed-

ucation training programmes is also offered to

school leavers, and Denmark is internationally

renowned for its well-developed vocational ed-

ucation system. The educational programmes

are structured as a combination of school edu-

cation and practical training in a company. The

aim of the vocational education programmes is

both to qualify students to work in a profession,

and provide the basis for further education, while

also contributing to the students’ personal and

social development. Vocational training is main-

ly centred around the following four industries;

mercantile studies, technical vocational studies,

social and health care studies and agricultural

studies.

THE EFTERSKOLEStudents may also opt for the Efterskole route

after formal schooling, as a more practical path

towards employment, often involving intern-

ships.

The Efterskole is a unique Danish residential

school, where students from the ages of 14 to 18

can choose to spend one, two or three years to

finish their primary education. Most Efterskoles

offer the same subjects and final examinations

as the public schools, but many focus on special

subjects like physical education, music or thea-

tre, or offer various kinds of special education.

The Efterskole is a private self-governing educa-

tional institution, run by a private school board

with substantial responsibility and authority, and

schools are superintended by The Danish Minis-

try of Education.

Education and boarding fees are charged and

can vary from one school to another, in reali-

ty though with only minor differences. The fees

are paid partly by parents and partly by state

and municipal grants. The public financial sup-

port ensures that everybody has a realistic, free

choice of attending an Efterskole.

What you need to know

✔All Efterskoles are residential and all students

live at the schools for one or two years of

study.

From ‘high school’ and vocational training to Efterskole and higher education; the Danish education system offers many paths in preparing your teen for a life after school.

Læs mere på www.TheInternational.dk

Read more at www.TheInternational.dk

The International is a department of Vedersø Idrætsefterskole

FOLLOWUS AT

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www.TheInternational.dk

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✔ Most Efterskoles are situated in the countryside or near provincial

towns.

✔ An Efterskole offers general education. It is regarded as the

primary task for the Efterskole to deal with the entire development

of each individual young student.

✔ The Efterskole offers education at 8th - 10th forms, and you can

choose to complete a school year in the Efterskole, instead of the

municipal school (Folkeskole). You even have the same

possibilities of passing final examinations.

✔ Although the Efterskoles fulfil social functions, it is important to

stress that they are schools and not social institutions.

✔ The average size of an Efterskole is approximately 85 students.

HIGHER EDUCATIONHigher education typically begins at the end of upper secondary

education, and comprises the short-cycle higher non-university

programmes, the medium-cycle university and non-university pro-

grammes as well as the long-cycle university programmes. There are

a range of world-class higher education institutions and universities

available for those in Denmark who wish to further their studies.

The higher education sector includes:

Universities (research-based undergraduate and postgraduate

programmes).

University Colleges (professional Bachelor’s programmes).

Academies of Professional Higher Education (short-cycle higher

education institutions offering Academy Profession and joint

Bachelor’s degree programmes.

Sources: http://eng.uvm.dk/

10

Whether you are interested in a research-ori-

ented programme or more hands-on vocation-

al training you will have plenty of options in

Denmark. You can choose between several pro-

grammes ranging from degree and exchange

programmes to short-term programmes and

summer schools. You can choose between three

types of Danish higher educational institutions:

Universities

University Colleges

Academies of Professional Higher Education

Each institution is responsible for its own admis-

sions. Requirements vary from programme to

programme, but here is what you need to know

about how and when to apply for a higher edu-

cation programme:

DO YOU QUALIFY FOR A DANISH HIGHER EDUCATION?Admission to higher education programmes in

the Coordinated Admission System (KOT) in

Denmark is regulated by law and regulations,

and provides the entry requirements for the pro-

grammes. You must fulfil certain requirements

to apply for higher education programmes in

Denmark. Students are able to apply for admis-

sion to a higher education programme they fulfil

three types of requirements:

•General entry requirements

•Specific entry requirements

•Language requirements

General entry requirementsFirst and foremost, as a foreign student, your for-eign certificate must be on a level with a Danish upper secondary school–leaving certificate. For admission to an Academy Profession degree programme (short-cycle professional higher ed-ucation) it may be sufficient that your foreign certificate is on a level with the relevant Danish vocational qualification. Your application will not be taken into consideration if you do not fulfil the entry requirements. If you do not fulfil the specific entry requirements before 5 July, it is possible in most programmes to pass a supplementary course to be eligible for admission, if you, during the summer holiday are apple to pass the required course. If you are of-fered conditional admission, you will only be able to attend the programme if you pass the supple-mentary course before the programme begins or

shortly afterwards.

HIGHER EDUCATION

All you need to know about accessing universities, colleges and other higher education institutions in Denmark.

12

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015Specific entry requirements

Like applicants with Danish qualifi-

cations, you must meet the specific

entry requirements that apply to the

individual study programme. Specif-

ic requirements typically include the

level of the subjects passed, marks

(grades) obtained in individual sub-

jects and the overall average of

marks (grade point average).

Language requirements

Requirements concerning your Danish or English proficiency may

also apply depending on the programme you wish to apply for. For

programmes taught in Danish, you must be able to document suf-

ficient oral and written proficiency in Danish, and must meet such

requirements by the beginning of the study programme. If the pro-

gramme is taught in English you must submit proof of English profi-

ciency equivalent at least to English B level in Denmark. Educational

institutions may in some cases require that you take a supplementary

test in English.

Important dates to remember:

1 February: The website Optagelse.dk opens for applications to

higher education programmes.

15 March: Deadline for quota 2 applications.

5 July: Deadline for quota 1 applications.

30 July: The applicants will receive a decision letter.

STATE EDUCATIONAL GRANT AND LOAN SCHEME (SU) As a Danish student, you are entitled to public support for your fur-

ther education - regardless of social standing. Tuition at Danish public

and most private educational institutions is free for Danish students

and for EU/EEA students as well as for students participating in an

exhange programme.

There are two main support programmes:

For people over 18 following a youth education programme:

For example, a general upper secondary, vocational upper second-

ary or vocational education and training programme. Students must

attend classes, sit examinations and in other ways demonstrate that

they are active in their educational programmes. No time limits are

placed on this type of support. Students are eligible for support for

any number of courses, with the exception of certain upper secondary

programmes.

For students enrolled in higher education courses:

Every student enrolled in a higher education course is entitled to a

number of monthly grants corresponding to the prescribed duration

of the chosen study, plus 12 months. Inside a maximum of 70 grants

students can change from one course to another. If you are taking a

higher education programme and have used all your study grant por-

tions, you can get a completion loan. You can receive a completion

loan in the last year of your studies.

Sources: http://education.stateuniversity.com; http://studyindenmark.dk/; http://ufm.

dk/; http://www.su.dk/

✔ A focus on learning, both in the classroom and beyond

✔ Creating internationally minded and principled lifelong learners

✔ International Primary Curriculum (IPC) ages 4-11 years ✔ Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) ages 11-16 years

✔ Excellent academic and sport facilities

✔ Dedicated, qualified native English-speaking teachers

✔ After-school activity programme and childcare (07.30-17.00)

Cirkelhuset, Christ ianshusvej 16 DK 2970 HørsholmPhone: +45 45572616E-mail: [email protected] more: www.ngg.dk

SEE

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COVERAGE

OF NGGI

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In the spirit of lifelong learning, Denmark

strongly encourages all foreign nationals living

in the country to learn the language. There are

plenty of opportunities to do so; from the many

types of courses available for free if you have a

CPR number or a work contract, to the dozens

of private and public organisations that offer

lessons in Danish at various levels.

STARTING DANISH LESSONS The vast majority of language centres admit

students on an ongoing basis and offer instruc-

tion as daily, evening or Saturday courses. The

courses are also often planned in cooperation

with job centres and companies so to ensure

that students are afforded the necessary time

to learn the language.

There are long courses that run during the aca-

demic year, short intensive courses and summer

courses. Depending on your needs, time, inter-

ests and prior qualifications, the main options

below are available to you:

Courses at Danish higher education

institutions.

Programmes and courses offered by the

local council (kommune).

Courses in Danish at adult learning centres

(VUCs).

Private language schools or classes offered

by private language teachers .

Courses at Folk High Schools (Folkehøjskoler).

A beginner’s course for foreign workers, accom-

panying spouses, students and au pairs is the

first step in learning the language, and often

comes in the form of a Labour market-oriented

Danish language course. On completion of the

course and subsequent examination, students

can enrol in a more specialised programme.

In addition to classroom instruction, many of

the language centres offer students the option

of learning Danish via online courses. Online

courses can also be completed with module

testing – and can be taken individually or in

groups. With online Danish courses, students

can learn Danish when it fits with their work,

family and school schedules – regardless of

time and location.

COURSES AT DANISH HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS Many institutions offer intensive Danish lan-

guage courses at the beginning of the academ-

ic year, during the semester or as a part of a

summer university programme. Students who

are enrolled at the institution are not usually

charged a tuition fee. However, if you’re not

studying at the institution but still planning

to join a language class, then you could be

charged a fee of around 2 500 – 5 000 DKK

per course.

PROGRAMMES AND COURSES OFFERED BY THE LOCAL COUNCIL (KOMMUNE) Local authorities are required by law to offer

Danish language and culture courses to all for-

eign residents. The local language schools offer

courses at all levels. The courses usually consist

of 18 lessons a week, though some schools offer

more intensive courses or weekend courses. The

target groups for these courses are new immi-

grants and refugees. For some of the courses,

you might be charged a nominal fee. It is possi-

ble to enrol in the courses several times a year.

Mandatory examinations are held twice a year.

DANISH LANGUAGE COURSES AT ADULT LEARNING CENTRES (VUCS)The adult learning centres offer courses in all

general subjects for adults at lower and upper

secondary school level. In addition to the gener-

al courses offered to Danes, some of the VUCs

offer Danish language courses for foreigners.

Each course lasts between six and 12 months

and comprises 240 lessons. A small tuition fee

of around 200 DKK is charged for each course.

You can get more information on these courses

from your local council or from the individual

adult learning centre.

If you are interested in a more intensive or per-

haps a more individually designed course, you

can enquire at one of the local language cen-

tres about private language teachers.

COURSES AT FOLK HIGH SCHOOLS (FOLKEHØJSKOLER) Some Folk High Schools offer residential cours-

es in Danish language and culture either during

the summer holiday (three to four weeks) or

during the autumn and spring semesters (four

to five month duration). These courses do not

normally include formal tests or examinations.

The Secretariat for the Danish Folk High Schools

will provide you with further information about

courses, admission and tuition fees. Please visit

www.hojskolerne.dk for more information.

Sources: Language school Supplement 2013; http://dedansk-esprogcentre.dk/

14

SCHOOL YOURSELF, IN DANISH


And the learning never ends… education is not only for kids, we help you find a language school that suits your needs.

The Danish education system is ranked 11th in the 2014 Global League Table developed by the Economist Intelligence Unit and the educa-

tion firm Pearson. While, as of 2008, Denmark is ranked first in the

European Union for its total state spend on education. Finland and

South Korea take the lead on the ranking table, followed by three

other high-performing Asian nations - Hong Kong, Japan and Singa-

pore. Denmark placed ahead of countries such as Germany, France

and the United States.

Looking at successful education systems, the study concludes that

spending is important, but not as much as having a culture that is

supportive of learning, giving teachers a high status while actively

promoting a “culture” of education. It assesses countries according

to Cognitive Skills (scores in reading, maths and science) and Edu-

cational Attainment (literacy and graduation rates). Denmark scores

high (5th overall) in terms of educational attainment, but loses marks

on cognitive skills, ranking only 17th overall.

Here are some other interesting facts about the education system:

STAT AMOUNT YEAR RANK

Average years of schooling of 9.7 2000 11th out of adults 100

Children out of school, primary 15,219 2010 73th out of 126

Children out of school, primary 2.74 2010 71st out of per 1000 126

Children out of school, primary, 5,253 2010 73th out of female 110

Compulsory education duration 10 yrs 2011 68th out of 188

Government spending on 8.74% 2009 6th out of education (GDP) 118

High school enrolment rate 96.76 2006 49th out of 103

Literacy - Female 99% 2003 23th out of 157

Literacy - Total population 99% 2003 24th out of 161

Primary education, duration 6 yrs 2012 106th out of > Years 200

www.cis.dk

Aha moments – that’s what our teachers create every day. Just ask our students. They all have stories to share: about individual attention, about being challenged academically and about teachers going the extra mile. At CIS we are fortunate to have the means to recruit the best. From Pre-K to grade 12, our teachers are all very skilled, experienced and committed to their students: They could teach anywhere in the world, and they chose CIS. We are proud of that because a school is defined by its teachers, and those magical moments of learning that make a good school great. To learn more please visit cis.dk

Magicians aren’t magic, our teachers are

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HOW DOES DENMARK COMPARE


Facts about the Danish education system.

Sources: http://thelearningcurve.pearson.com/

Are you a semi-skilled or skilled worker, and

currently plying your trade in the Danish labour

market? Do you want to upskill yourself or learn

a new trade or vocation, or simply further your

basic level of education? If the answer to these

questions is yes, then why not enrol yourself for

a short vocational training or adult education

programme. The Danish adult education system

has many great programmes, both formal and

non-formal where you are able to participate in

the Danish tradition of life-long learning.

TRAINING GOALSThe Danish government has invested greatly in

the further education of its workforce. As such

these training programmes have been set up for

the purpose of:

✔ Contributing to maintaining and improving the

vocational skills and competences of the

participants in accordance with the needs on

the labour market and to furthering

competence development of the participants.

✔ Adding to the solution of labour market re

structuring and adaptation problems in

accordance with the needs on the labour

market in a short and a long term perspective.

✔ Giving adults the possibility of upgrading

competences for the labour market as well

as personal competences through possibilities

to obtain formal competence in vocational

education and training.

Vocational Education and Training (VET), since

the 1970s, therefore has the primary purpose of

equipping young people and adults with higher

(new) qualifications as a response to (long-term)

unemployment. Recent reforms of the VET sys-

tem have focused on making it simpler, more

transparent, more coherent, and flexible to both

the needs of the labour market and the learners’

needs.

ADULT LEARNING AND TRAINING PROGRAMMES ON OFFERAdult vocational courses leading to formal qual-

ifications, qualifying for further education or for

better access to the labour market include:

Preparatory adult education (FVU): Offered to

improve basic literacy and numeracy skills. Ideal

for non-Danish expats who have limited formal

16

ADULT VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND EDUCATION


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education, and for adults who do not have suffi-

cient qualifications to follow education and train-

ing or cope with the demands of working life.

General adult education (AVU): General educa-

tion at lower secondary level.

Higher preparatory single-subject courses (HF enkeltfag): General education at upper second-

ary level.

Adult vocational training (AMU): Mainly targets

unskilled and skilled workers on the labour mar-

ket who need to develop their competences. The

programmes are developed and adapted accord-

ing to the needs of the labour market.

Basic adult education (GVU): Based on credit for

former experience and qualifications of the in-

dividual participant supplemented with selected

courses from the vocational training programme

leading to the same professional level and same

final test as pupils who complete a corresponding

youth education).

These, in addition to academy profession pro-

grammes, diploma programmes and master

programmes are options to consider, depending

on your skill and education levels. If you are an

expat living in Denmark, and have a non-Danish

ethnic background, these courses are ideal edu-

cation and training opportunities that will ensure

you are better integrated within the labour mar-

ket.

Sources: European Centre for the Development of Vocational

Training; http://ufm.dk/en; http://eng.uvm.dk/

You are never too old to learn a new skill or further your basic education, and Denmark has top-class institutions to make your later-learning worthwhile.


THE DANISH TRADITION OF LEARNINGOn a whole, the national education system is

an inclusive, world-class education system that

prepares children for their future in a constantly

changing world. The teaching principles and cur-

riculum have been developed around the values

of curiosity, participation and reflection, with the

ultimate aim of instilling a desire to learn more,

within each learner.

The focus of learning in the early years, at

pre-primary level, is primarily on creativity and

play. As children grow and develop their minds,

by the time they reach primary and secondary

school level, they are encouraged to participate,

demonstrate mutual responsibility and under-

stand their rights and duties in a free and dem-

ocratic society. In this way children learn how to

take decisions and act independently.

DECIDING ON THE CURRICULUMIf your main concern, when it comes to your

child’s education, is the medium of instruction

he or she will receive as a non-Danish speaker,

do not worry. Children who do not speak Dan-

ish and have a foreign language as their mother

tongue are still entitled to be educated in Den-

mark’s primary and lower secondary schools.

Your local municipality is obliged to offer a Dan-

ish language and culture courses, as well as class

lessons taught in your child’s native language if

they are from an EU/EEA country.

As for the general schooling curriculum at prima-

ry and lower secondary schools, the Minister of

Education is responsible for setting the targets

of achievement for each subject taught in public

schools; however, local authorities and schools

are free to decide on how to reach these. This

leaves the teaching practices mostly up to the

18

WHAT ARE THEY TEACHING MY KID?

individual school. The Ministry of Education, however, does provide

curriculum guidelines for each subject taught. Once again, individual

schools are allowed to formulate their own curricula as long as they

are in accordance with the overall target levels. Most schools appear to

employ the guidelines set by the Ministry.

Subjects

Danish, mathematics, physical education/sport, and Christian studies

are compulsory subjects for all nine years of learning. Art must be

taught from the first to the fifth forms, science and music from the

first to the sixth forms, and history from the third to the eighth forms.

Textile design, woodwork and metal work, and home economics should

be taught at one or more levels within the fourth to the seventh forms.

English is compulsory from the fourth to the ninth forms, geography

and biology at the seventh and eighth forms. Physics and chemistry

must be taught from the seventh to the ninth forms, and social stud-

ies should be offered in the ninth form. Pupils are offered instruction

in German from the seventh to the ninth forms, but may be offered

French instead.

There are also certain compulsory topics to be included in the school-

ing curriculum, and include:

Traffic safety.

Health and sex education.

Educational, vocational, and labour-market orientation.

In addition, a wide range of optional subjects may be offered from the

eighth to the 10th form, including; technology, drama, Spanish, and com-

mon immigrant languages.

On conclusion of forms nine and 10, Folkeskole students sit for

school-leaving examinations. This is compulsory after form nine, but

voluntary after the 10th. The examinations after the 10th form place

higher academic demands on the students than the examinations after

form nine.

THE TEACHERStudent are taught on the principle of differentiated teaching. The

teaching is organised in such a way that it both strengthens and de-

velops the individual student’s interests, qualifications and needs, and

so that it contains common experiences and situations providing them

with experience which prepare them for cooperation in the performance

of tasks.

The class teacher is the one teacher among the group of teachers in-

volved with a class who has the main responsibility when it comes to

monitoring and supporting the subject-specific and social development

of the students. Teaching, organising the interdisciplinary teaching and

the compulsory topics, are also functions of the class teacher.

Sources: http://eng.uvm.dk/; https://www.isbillund.com; http://education.stateuniversity.com/; https://www.justlanded.com

Rest assured that your kids are in good hands at any Danish school! Here is why...

The focus of learning in the early years, at pre-primary level,

is primarily on creativity and play.“ “

A TYPICAL DAY AT SCHOOL…● School starts at 08:00.

● Lessons begin, and subjects are taught depending on the form of

the student. Classes are on average 20 pupils in size, and should not

exceed 28.

● Students get a 30 minute break where they can eat their packed

lunches.

● Lessons continue.

● School finishes at about 15:00 (although the first three year groups

usually end their day at 12:00).

● Extracurricular activities are widely available to pupils after school,

as well as a child care service if necessary. These are usually

offered both by the school and by local care centres.


BE AN A-CLASS PARENT

At Danish schools, parents are particularly en-

couraged to become engaged with the education

of their children at all levels. Danish traditions,

routines and culture is woven into the curriculum,

as local places and themes of interest are the

starting point for teaching and inquiry in many

Danish public schools. Parents are encouraged

to engage in these processes as much as possi-

ble, with impressions, viewpoints and ideas from

Danish and other nationalities.

Aside from getting involved with your child’s

learning, from a cultural stance, it is important

to assist schools and teachers in the learning

process by too teaching and learning with your

child. Your involvement with your child’s educa-

tion; from enquiring about their day at school

and assisting with homework to communicating

with their teacher are imperative to your child’s

development within the Danish schooling sys-

tem. Not only will it make you a better parent,

but who knows, you may actually learn some-

thing from your child!

TEACHER’S TIPS: HOW YOU CAN HELP YOUR CHILD SUCCEED AT SCHOOL

1. Communication in keyCommunicate with your child about school. This

includes talking to him/her about their friends,

activities, teachers, and assignments. This will

demonstrate your enthusiasm about school and

tasks such as homework, and in turn this will

motivate your child. If your child is struggling

at school, don’t wait for the teacher to suggest

steps to take, rather sit with your child and set

realistic goals for their improvement, and then

focus on one at a time.

Communicating with your child’s teacher is an-

other way to help them succeed at school. Par-

ents who take an active interest in their child’s

work and school well-being are one of the big-

gest contributors to their success. Children of in-

volved parents typically have higher self-esteem

and have fewer behavioural problems in school.

And students’ grades usually improve when their

And get involved with your child’s learning!

20

parents become involved. Get involved with your child’s schooling by stay-

ing informed when it comes to the teacher’s views on your child progress,

ask the questions of the teacher – and get involved.

2. Help with homework

There are things you can do that will help your child do assigned home-

work, and that result in learning, which, after all, is the reason for being in

school. You can do this, for example, by breaking down assignments into

smaller, more manageable parts. Provide a quiet study corner in your home

complete with paper, markers, a ruler, pencils and a dictionary. Ask ques-

tions and get involved should they need your help, but always remember

never do your child’s homework for them! This defeats the point.

3. Get organised

A lack of interest in your child’s education may also result in them showing

no interest in wanting to learn and even attend school. Learn you organise

your day around your child’s schooling, this will instil in them the impor-

tance that comes with the structure of school in their lives. You can do

this by the simple means of setting out needed items (clothes, homework,

permission slips, etc.) the night before to avoid last-minute rushing around

in the morning.

Most of all, make sure that your child gets to school every day possible.

Missing work will only set your child further back.

Sources: http://www.schoolfamily.com/; http://www.adprima.com/

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Don’t be limited in your job opportunities after

school: Plan your future by making good choic-

es at school. Denmark offers great working

conditions, numerous career paths as well as

an open dialogue and easy collaboration be-

tween yourself and your bosses and managers.

But finding the right career path suited to your

specific skill set as a school-leaver may be more

challenging than you think. We offer you some

advice on how to make the best career path for

you…

JOB MARKET IN DENMARKThe majority of Danish jobs are in private ser-

vices, followed by government, industry, con-

struction, utilities and agriculture and fisheries.

Despite this, production and exportation of ma-

chinery, parts, chemicals and agricultural prod-

ucts, among others, are all key contributors to

the economy.

Increasing numbers of job roles for graduates

are now available due to more citizens retiring

than entering the labour market. This means

that there is significant demand for engineers,

doctors, nurses, teachers, IT workers and phar-

macists among others.

If you are aspiring for a career within the in-

dustry, construction or even arts, you may wish

to follow a vocational training schooling path,

as this may set you up for industry-specific

training. However, if you are keen on a more

specialised career path within the medical, or

engineering fields, higher education at universi-

ty level is a must.

NATIONAL GUIDANCE PORTALThe Ministry of Education funds and is respon-

sible for a national guidance portal called the

Education Guide. This portal offers advice to

children, young people and adults looking for

further information about education, training

and careers. The portal provides comprehensive

and up-to-date information on:

Youth education and training programmes

Higher education programmes

Occupations/ professions

Labour market issues

Study programmes taught in English at

Danish colleges and universities

It also includes an e-mail based enquiry ser-

vice, an electronic guidance tool facilitating the

choice of education, occupation and careers, as

well as links to youth guidance centres, regional

guidance centres and educational institutions,

and to the electronic admission systems (www.

optagelse.dk).

Visit www.ug.dk for more information.

Source: http://www.prospects.ac.uk/

SURVIVE LIFE AFTER SCHOOLDo you have what it takes to make it in the Danish job market?


22

BY LUCIE RYCHLA

Following the end of the summer holidays,

three new so-called free schools (friskoler)

will open in the market town of Hjørring in

north Jutland, replacing three of the four pub-

lic schools that are being shut down.

Hjørring is possibly the clearest example of

the current boom in private schooling in Den-

mark, where its increasing number of free

schools off er alternative forms of education

or have a special focus.

HIGHEST FOR YEARSAccording to the Education Ministry, some 30

independent school initiatives have paid the

second instalment of the deposit required to

get permission to open a private school, and

23 of them have informed the ministry of their

address, suggesting they will actually open

this year.

It is the highest number of free schools for

many years. Just last year, 13 schools, which

are members of the Danish Free School Asso-

ciation, opened.

REPLACING PUBLIC SCHOOLSOf the 23 free schools scheduled to open this

year, eleven are replacing a closed public

school.

Along with Hjørring Municipality, the regions

of Brønderslev, Herning, Holbaek and Born-

holm will all see schools opening.

While some of the local communities are

opening their own schools to avoid becoming

pensioner towns, others simply want to off er

their kids an alternative form of education.

According to Peter Bendix, the chairman of

the Danish Free School Association, many

parents have become more aware of which

school their children should attend because of

the extensive discussions about school reform

in recent years.

WHAT IS A FREE SCHOOL? Free schools in Denmark were established

according to the ideas of NFS Grundtvig

and Christen Kold 150 years ago.

They offer an alternative to the municipal

schools and have roots in education at

home.

Most offer an education from kindergarten

to 9th grade.

Although the schools are termed ‘free’,

they are private and the parents pay fees

of around DKK 13,000 a year. Some 71

percent of the fee, on average, is subsidised

by the state.

Free schools can choose to base their

school on an ideology of religious,

political and pedagogical nature, and the

various groups of free schooling include:

‘Grundtvig-koldske’ free schools, Christian

free schools, free schools established by

Muslim immigrants, schools inspired by

Rudolf Steiner, schools for the

German-speaking minority and many

others.

Some of them have a school system with

out examinations and evaluate pupils in a

different way other than giving them

grades.

The Danish Free School Association currently

registers 550 free schools with about 110,000

pupils, corresponding to 17 percent of Danish

pupils. In comparison, at the public schools,

570,000 pupils attend only 1,300 schools.

Source: friskoler.dk

‘FREE’ ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS BOOMING ACROSS DENMARK

Some 17 percent of parents dig into their pockets to pay for their children’s education at these establishments.


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Extra-curricular activities such as talent de-velopment programmes, optional music, arts, theatre, sports, and school parties create opportunities to meet friends outside school hours.

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www.oeis.dk


www.oeis.dk


Østerbro International School • Rygårds Allé 131 • 2900 Hellerup • + 45 70 20 63 68 • [email protected] • www.oeis.dk

We l o o k f o r w a r d t o g r o w i n g w i t h y o u !

It was great to welcome old and new students to our new campus at Rygårds Alle. Østerbro International School continous its succesfull journey with the 7th school year.

Students were introduced to their teachers and brought to their new classrooms. It was a fantastic start to the new year and we are enjoying our new space.

I N T E R N A T I O N A L S C H O O L

Østerbro

AN IB

CERTIFIED

SCHOOL!

WELCOME TO ØSTERBRO INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

24pg autumn education supplement

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