24pg Autumn Education Supplement by Lyndsay Jensen

EDUCATION Autumn 2015

THE FOUNDATIONS

OF LEARNING QUALITY EDUCATION FOR ALL!

You are never too old to learn!

Enrol in adult vocational training

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

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

TEENAGE: LEARNING ALL THE OPTIONS!

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

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

LEARNING IN FOCUS AT NGG INTERNATIONAL Since 13th August, students and teachers at NGG International have been busy with their core business – learning. The school’s newly appointed Head of International, Karen 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 Copenhagen, 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 International’, 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

September is upon us, and the summer is drawing 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 guided on the different levels or forms of education available in Denmark, but also on the variety or types of schools, programmes and opportunities available to students, both Danish and international. As Denmark attracts many foreign workers to its kingdom, there is quite a variety of international schools which cater for students 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 information you need to make the best of your Danish education.

OVERVIEW OF THE EDUCATION SYSTEM Education is compulsory in Denmark for everyone 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,

in students that are necessary for the workplaces of the future.’ The entire school of Nordsjaelland Grundskole og Gymnasium has a new and ambitious principal in Claus Re-

INTERNATIONAL DAY 2015

inholdt Campeotto who explains that even though the

September 19th, 10:00am - 1:00pm

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

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

This Year’s Theme -

his or her potential – both academically and personally’. is a matter of individual choice, as long as accepted 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 university-level institutions offer various courses and programmes in English. The academic year runs from August/September 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 compulsory 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

President and Publisher: Ejvind Sandal ● Editor: David Nothling ● Layout: Lyndsay Jensen ● Commercial Director: Hans Hermansen, hans@cphpost.dk, Tel: +45 2420 2411 ● Picture credit for images: Thinkstock & various education facilities

The International school continues to expand and cur-

Food & Cooking

Join us!

Let’s Celebrate!

rently provides international education for more than 220 students from more than 40 nationalities. On 19th September, families, students and the school will hold their annual International Day from 10:00-13:00. The focus of

f de o Para ns o Nati

De Cook mo i nst ng rat io

the day will be one of welcome and celebration of the many cultures that make up NGG International.

Fun Activities & Games

Mus ic & Danc e

PTA Raffle - Culinary Treats Baskets from around the world to Win!

Learn about Cultures & Countries

ces

NGGI PTA

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n ma for

Delicious Food from around the World!

See You There!

THE FOUNDATIONS OF LEARNING

by the state or the municipalities.

“

The education system is financed

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

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 seven 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 primary (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 continuation 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 framework 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-

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

COMPULSORY LEARNING This phase of learning in Denmark, basic education, is compulsory and lasts 10 years (0 to 9) with an optional year 10. Primary and lower secondary education is integrated within a sin4

gle structure and is provided by:  Municipal schools (“Folkeskole”)  Private schools  Continuation schools

pupil amounts to DKK 25,000 excluding state subsidies.

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. Pupils at continuation schools do have to pay a tuition fee but the amount varies – and is subsidised by the state – depending on the parents’ income. Average annual tuition fee (2005) per

Before 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.

FROM BØRNEHAVN TO MUNICIPAL LEARNING

Pre-primary school All young children in Denmark have the option of enrolment in a child care centre. There are

LEARN MORE! WITH US AT

STRUER STATSGYMNASIUM AND BOARDING SCHOOL, Yo u r ho m e aw a y f r o m ho m e. . .

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 parents 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 appear 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/

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

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

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

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

FINDING THE RIGHT SCHOOL:

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

PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR INTERNATIONAL?

subsidy. This tradition mainly originates in the ideas and initiatives of the clergyman, poet and politician, N.F.S. Grundtvig (1783-1872), and the teacher, 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 population. The ideas of Grundtvig and Kold had such an impact on the political thinking of their time that they were written into the democratic Constitution adopted by Denmark in 1915. It stipulates general compulsory education - not compulsory school attendance. About 13% of all children at basic school level (including the voluntary preschool class and 10th form) attend private schools. In 2006, approximately 91 000 children attended 491 private schools, while 690 000 pupils attended 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).

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

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

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.

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

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.

has room for your child.

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

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

“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

G RENAA G YM NASI UM IB

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BOARDING SCHOOL

W W W. G R E N A A -G Y M. D K

 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.

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one of the international schools in Denmark can be a dilemma. This is because parents have to choose between their child learning in their native language (attending the appropriate international school) or learning the Danish culture and integrating into Danish society (attending a Danish public or private school).

STRUER

STATSGYMNASIUM

A DISTINCTLY INTERNATIONAL TOUCH.

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

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 international schools available in and around Copenhagen. 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. schools will teach in Danish, the student will be forced to learn more Danish. 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 language, non-Danish students typically receive supplemental instruction in Danish language and culture. These schools are located throughout Denmark, although most are found close to Copenhagen. International schools may seem the perfect solution for an expat student (multinational corporation 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 transition 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

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 international 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 municipality. 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.thelocal.dk/; https://www.workindenmark.dk; http://www.fyidenmark.com/; http://www.lfph.dk/

With five different programmes on offer, including; IB, STX, HHX, HF and HG, Struer Statsgymnasium is a popular choice, especially amongst international students. In addition, we are also a boarding school which enables international students to live next to the school, and attend our International Baccalaureate. Our open, democratic and academically challenging learning environment, coupled with the beautiful surroundings of the school, offers students who board much more than a quality education. Our boarding school offers many activities (both sports and cultural), as well as extracurricular activities for science students.

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/ cultural facilities.

For more information contact: Tel. 97 854300 or struer-statsgym@stgym.dk.

Advertisement EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015 Læs mere på www.TheInternational.dk

TEENAGE LEARNING: THE MANY OPTIONS 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. After lower and upper secondary schooling, learners qualify for access to upper secondary, higher education and vocational or technical education, 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 qualifying primarily for access to the labour market.

‘HIGH SCHOOL’ Gymnasium is the higher preparatory examination or HF-programme, the higher commercial examination or HHX-programme and the higher technical examination or HTX-programme. These programmes at Gymnasium level are designed 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 completed 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 approximately 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 TRAINING Vocational education and other post-basic education training programmes is also offered to school leavers, and Denmark is internationally renowned for its well-developed vocational education system. The educational programmes are structured as a combination of school education 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 mainly centred around the following four industries; mercantile studies, technical vocational studies, social and health care studies and agricultural studies.

THE EFTERSKOLE Students may also opt for the Efterskole route after formal schooling, as a more practical path towards employment, often involving internships.

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 theatre, or offer various kinds of special education.

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The Efterskole is a private self-governing educational institution, run by a private school board with substantial responsibility and authority, and schools are superintended by The Danish Ministry of Education. Education and boarding fees are charged and can vary from one school to another, in reality though with only minor differences. The fees are paid partly by parents and partly by state and municipal grants. The public financial support 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.

✔ 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 EDUCATION Higher 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 programmes 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/

English speaking academy and boarding school Cambridge IGCSE studies Specialize in: Soccer, Dance, Media or Cambridge studies only Trips to Europe + USA/Australia Leadership Programme Personal and social development

Read more at www.TheInternational.dk

The International is a department of Vedersø Idrætsefterskole

Advertisement Specific entry requirements

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

Like applicants with Danish qualifications, you must meet the specific

HIGHER EDUCATION

entry requirements that apply to the individual study programme. Specific requirements typically include the level of the subjects passed, marks (grades) obtained in individual subjects and the overall average of marks (grade point average). Language requirements

SEE

.DK CPHPOST RE FOR MO GE COVERA OF NGGI

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 sufficient oral and written proficiency in Danish, and must meet such requirements by the beginning of the study programme. If the programme is taught in English you must submit proof of English proficiency 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 further 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.

✔ 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)

There are two main support programmes:

All you need to know about accessing universities, colleges and other higher education institutions in Denmark. Whether you are interested in a research-oriented programme or more hands-on vocational training you will have plenty of options in Denmark. You can choose between several programmes 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 admis12

sions. Requirements vary from programme to programme, but here is what you need to know about how and when to apply for a higher education 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 programmes. You must fulfil certain requirements to apply for higher education programmes in Denmark. Students are able to apply for admission to a higher education programme they fulfil three types of requirements: •General entry requirements •Specific entry requirements •Language requirements

General entry requirements First and foremost, as a foreign student, your foreign 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 education) 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 offered conditional admission, you will only be able to attend the programme if you pass the supplementary course before the programme begins or shortly afterwards.

For people over 18 following a youth education programme: For example, a general upper secondary, vocational upper secondary 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 portions, you can get a completion loan. You can receive a completion

Cirkelhuset, Christianshusvej 16 DK 2970 Hørsholm

loan in the last year of your studies.

Phone: +45 45572616

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

E-mail: nggi@ngg.dk Read more: www.ngg.dk

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EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

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. 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 instruction 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 academic year, short intensive courses and summer courses. Depending on your needs, time, interests 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, accompanying 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 14

HOW DOES DENMARK COMPARE

www.cis.dk

Facts about the Danish education system. The Danish education system is ranked 11th in the 2014 Global League Table developed by the Economist Intelligence Unit and the education 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 Singapore. Denmark placed ahead of countries such as Germany, France and the United States. 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.

DANISH LANGUAGE COURSES AT ADULT LEARNING CENTRES (VUCS)

COURSES AT DANISH HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Each course lasts between six and 12 months

Many institutions offer intensive Danish language courses at the beginning of the academic 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 foreign 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 immigrants and refugees. For some of the courses, you might be charged a nominal fee. It is possible to enrol in the courses several times a year. Mandatory examinations are held twice a year.

The adult learning centres offer courses in all general subjects for adults at lower and upper secondary school level. In addition to the general courses offered to Danes, some of the VUCs offer Danish language courses for foreigners.

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 Educational 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:

and comprises 240 lessons. A small tuition fee of around 200 DKK is charged for each course.

STAT AMOUNT YEAR RANK

You can get more information on these courses

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

from your local council or from the individual adult learning centre. If you are interested in a more intensive or perhaps a more individually designed course, you can enquire at one of the local language centres about private language teachers.

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

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

www.hojskolerne.dk for more information.

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

Sources: Language school Supplement 2013; http://dedanskesprogcentre.dk/

Primary education, duration 6 yrs 2012 106th out of > Years 200 Sources: http://thelearningcurve.pearson.com/

Magicians aren’t magic, our teachers are 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

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

ADULT VOCATIONAL TRAINING AND EDUCATION 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. 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 GOALS The 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 system 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 OFFER Adult vocational courses leading to formal qualifications, qualifying for further education or for better access to the labour market include:

education, and for adults who do not have sufficient qualifications to follow education and training or cope with the demands of working life. General adult education (AVU): General education at lower secondary level. Higher preparatory single-subject courses (HF enkeltfag): General education at upper secondary level. Adult vocational training (AMU): Mainly targets unskilled and skilled workers on the labour market who need to develop their competences. The programmes are developed and adapted according to the needs of the labour market. Basic adult education (GVU): Based on credit for former experience and qualifications of the individual 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 programmes, 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 education and training opportunities that will ensure you are better integrated within the labour market. Sources: European Centre for the Development of Vocational Training; http://ufm.dk/en; http://eng.uvm.dk/

Preparatory adult education (FVU): Offered to improve basic literacy and numeracy skills. Ideal for non-Danish expats who have limited formal

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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 studies 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 schooling 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 common 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.

Student are taught on the principle of differentiated teaching. The teaching is organised in such a way that it both strengthens and develops 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.

On 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 curriculum 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. 18

DECIDING ON THE CURRICULUM If 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 Denmark’s primary and lower secondary schools. Your local municipality is obliged to offer a Danish 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 primary 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

The class teacher is the one teacher among the group of teachers involved 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

“

The focus of learning in the early years, at pre-primary level, is primarily on creativity and play.

“

THE DANISH TRADITION OF LEARNING

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 understand their rights and duties in a free and democratic society. In this way children learn how to take decisions and act independently.

● 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.

THE TEACHER

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

A TYPICAL DAY AT SCHOOL…

● 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.

EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

BE AN A-CLASS PARENT And get involved with your child’s learning! At Danish schools, parents are particularly encouraged 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 possible, 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 education; 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 system. Not only will it make you a better parent, but who knows, you may actually learn something from your child!

parents become involved. Get involved with your child’s schooling by staying 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 homework, 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 questions 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 importance 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/

Over 100 years of high academic standards in an international environment

TEACHER’S TIPS: HOW YOU CAN HELP YOUR CHILD SUCCEED AT SCHOOL 1. Communication in key Communicate 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 another way to help them succeed at school. Parents who take an active interest in their child’s work and school well-being are one of the biggest contributors to their success. Children of involved parents typically have higher self-esteem and have fewer behavioural problems in school. And students’ grades usually improve when their 20

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EDUCATION SUPPLEMENT - AUTUMN 2015

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

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

Don’t be limited in your job opportunities after school: Plan your future by making good choices at school. Denmark offers great working conditions, numerous career paths as well as an open dialogue and easy collaboration between 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…

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 public schools that are being shut down. Hjørring is possibly the clearest example of the current boom in private schooling in Denmark, where its increasing number of free schools off er alternative forms of education or have a special focus.

JOB MARKET IN DENMARK The majority of Danish jobs are in private services, followed by government, industry, construction, utilities and agriculture and fisheries. Despite this, production and exportation of machinery, parts, chemicals and agricultural products, among others, are all key contributors to the economy.

HIGHEST FOR YEARS According 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.

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 pharmacists among others.

It is the highest number of free schools for many years. Just last year, 13 schools, which are members of the Danish Free School Association, opened.

If you are aspiring for a career within the industry, construction or even arts, you may wish to follow a vocational training schooling path,

‘FREE’ ALTERNATIVE SCHOOLS BOOMING ACROSS DENMARK

REPLACING PUBLIC SCHOOLS 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 university level is a must.

 Higher education programmes  Occupations/ professions  Labour market issues  Study programmes taught in English at Danish colleges and universities

NATIONAL GUIDANCE PORTAL The Ministry of Education funds and is responsible 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:

It also includes an e-mail based enquiry service, 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.

 Youth education and training programmes

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

Of 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 Bornholm 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

GRENAA

GYMNASIUM TAKE YOUR IB DIPLOMA CLOSE TO AARHUS Our IB Diploma education gives you access to universities all over the world. At Grenaa Gymnasium we have more than 12 years of experience with the IB Diploma programme. Our teachers all have at least five years’ university education and have high academic standards for our students. At Grenaa Gymnasium we constantly strive to develop and use innovative teaching strategies that challenge and motivate our students.

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

Extra-curricular activities such as talent development programmes, optional music, arts, theatre, sports, and school parties create opportunities to meet friends outside school hours. Our boarding students enjoy the benefits of a friendly, inclusive, and homely atmosphere in an international environment . The boarding staff are dedicated and balance well between ensuring freedom and safety for each student. For students who do not yet qualify for the IB Diploma, we offer a one-year Pre-IB programme. PARENTS ABOUT THE IB AT GRENAA GYMNASIUM: “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 GYMNASIUM: ■ 650 students at STX, HF, and IB, including 110 boarding students. ■ Only 60 km from Aarhus, good transportation possibilities. ■ 10 minute walk from beach, forest, town centre, and coach- and train station.

WELCOME TO ØSTERBRO INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL 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.

B AN I ED IFI CERT OOL! SCH

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 !

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

Østerbro International School • Rygårds Allé 131 • 2900 Hellerup • + 45 70 20 63 68 • info@oeis.dk • www.oeis.dk www.oeis.dk Phone: +45 70 20 63 68 � E-mail: info@oeis.dk � Pr¾st¿gade 17 � 2100 Copenhagen � Denmark