Denmark has a tradition of general education which is as old as Danish democracy itself. It goes together with a belief that a well-informed population is an important prerequisite for a well-functioning society.
General education
Everyone has access to life-long learning. Not just within the confines of the educational system but also by attending folk high school or night school, following educational programmes on the radio or on TV, or by doing courses at work.
Compulsory education
Denmark has a policy of nine years’ compulsory education. Children are to be taught from the age of seven. Most children, however, start in a pre-school class when they are six. Most people continue their studies after the nine years of compulsory education. After nine years of primary and lower secondary school, it is up to the individual to decide whether they want pursue further education. Having said this, there are fewer and fewer jobs for people without an education so the vast majority of young people take a business education or upper secondary education. Followed by a short-, medium- or long-term period of further study.
Collaboration and participation
The Danish education system is founded on a high degree of freedom and co-determination. From the earliest classes all the way through to university, students can participate in decision making relating to school and education. And teachers expect them to do so. Teaching not only places emphasis on academic knowledge but also on the student’s ability to develop communicative and collaborative skills. Right from pre-school class, teachers teach children in groups and encourage them to solve tasks together. At institutions of higher education, students often work together to solve assignments and meet privately in study groups.
Credits: The Danish Immigration Service
