ESC: Rejsby Europæiske Efterskole- a boarding school for youngsters 14-17

Rejsby Europæiske Efterskole is a self-governing boarding school (efterskole) offering formal secondary education for 8th-10th grade students (app. 14-17 years of age). 'The Efterskole' is a unique schooling concept found only in Denmark. Broadly speaking, the Efterskole is a private boarding school with government grants that provides Secondary School education for young people, predominately between the ages of 14-17. As the school is privately run, there is an annual fee for parents to send their child/children to the school, but families may apply for government funding depending on their financial status. Each 'Efterskole' chooses its own profile and focus areas in addition to the compulsory subjects. Rejsby Europæiske Efterskole profile is built upon Grundtvig/Kold social-cultural values, whose general principles are general education, co-existence and enlightenment for life, with emphasis on putting historical, political and cultural issues into context. Pupils' participation in the cultural debate is also seen as an important part of the individual's personal development. The school specializes in European Studies and languages, as well offering students the choice of over 30 elective subjects. Rejsby Europæiske Efterskole values knowledge and understanding of Europe and Europeans in high regard. This also includes knowledge of the EU's institutions and functions. This is achieved, in part, through teaching of our very own Social Studies curriculum with particular focus on Europe and the EU. Furthermore, the school benefits from hosting European teaching assistants and volunteers, who enhance the international dimension both inside and outside of the classroom. Our study trips aim to create a better appreciation of other cultures and develop international co-operation and understanding. All students participate in four annual study trips at no extra cost. Students will visit Belgium in September to visit various European institutions and meet key figures. In November, students travel to Berlin for study trip. In February, the pupils will head to Sweden to try skiing. In April students travel with their classmates to visit their partner schools in Europe to participate in a cultural exchange. The school currently has a number of partnerships with schools throughout Europe. Our exchanges and co-operation with these schools do not only give our students unique cultural experiences, but also first-hand insight, knowledge and understanding of other Europeans in their own countries. It also gives them the chance to make new friends and improve their language skills. Language acquisition is also an integral part of the school's international dimension that promotes better understanding of other cultures. As well as compulsory teaching of Danish, English and French and/or German, Rejsby Europæiske Efterskole offers all students the opportunity to take internationally recognized examinations in English (Cambridge IGCSE Examinations), French (DELF) and German (Goethe) to supplement their Danish qualifications. There is also the possibility to learn Spanish and French as a beginners' language. The school also offers Danish as a foreign language. Rejsby Europæiske Efterskole is known for its high educational standards and pedagogical practices, but also the proven ability to develop our students both socially and academically, especially in regards to their international competencies. The majority of students continue into higher education. The foundations of the community at the school are built upon openness, friendliness, tolerance and shared responsibility. Participation in this unique mini-society aims to build relationships and create greater awareness and understanding of others. Rejsby puts emphasis on quality education. Everybody should be able to acquire new skills and develop academically within a challenging learning environment.