Which Folk High School Should I Choose? A Guide to Folk High Schools in Denmark
There are more than 70 folk high schools in Denmark, offering everything from arts and sports to politics, nature, and entrepreneurship. That’s why it can be difficult to figure out: which folk high school should I choose?
The right school depends on what you want to get out of your stay. Here are some useful considerations to help you decide – along with an insight into what makes Nordfyns Folk High School a special place for many students.
1. Choose a school with subjects you’re passionate about
One of the most important factors when choosing a folk high school is the subjects. Folk high schools are very different, and many have their own strengths and specialisations.
Ask yourself:
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What do I want to get better at?
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Do I want to be creative, active, or socially engaged?
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Do I want to try something completely new?
At Nordfyns Folk High School, you can combine creative, cultural, and physical subjects. For example, you can work with ceramics, jewellery, and design, or choose active subjects such as sports, road cycling, and MMA.
You can also take courses in cultural exchange, where students from different countries share perspectives, experiences, and traditions.
You can explore all our subjects here.
2. Consider the type of community you want
Folk high school is just as much about people as it is about subjects.
At Nordfyns Folk High School, community is a central part of everyday life. Students live, eat, and experience things together, and many describe it as a place where you quickly feel at home.
Daily life includes:
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shared meals
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morning assemblies
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cross-subject activities and projects
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spontaneous evenings with games, music, or meaningful conversations
These are often the moments where the strongest memories are created.
You can read more about life at the school here.
3. An international environment
One thing that makes Nordfyns Folk High School special is its international atmosphere.
Around half of the students come from other countries, including Spain, the USA, Belgium, England, Kenya – and many more.
This means you meet people with different cultures, perspectives, and experiences every day. Conversations around the dinner table become international, and many students find that they gain both new friendships and a broader global outlook.
4. Think about location
Location can also play a role when choosing a folk high school.
Nordfyns Folk High School is located on the island of Funen, close to forests, beaches, and small, charming towns. At the same time, the city of Odense is nearby if you want to experience urban life, culture, or concerts.
The peaceful surroundings create space for focus and community in everyday life.
You can read more about the location here.
5. Combine folk high school and travel in one experience
Many young people ask themselves:
Should I travel the world – or attend a folk high school?
At Nordfyns Folk High School, you don’t have to choose.
After your stay, you can extend your experience with two months in Japan together with your fellow students – at a very reasonable price.
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Japanese culture, explore the country, and continue the community from the school in a completely new setting.
For many students, it’s the perfect combination: first a folk high school stay – then an adventure in Japan. In addition, all students go on a study trip together during the semester.
You can read more about our travels here.
Frequently Asked Questions about Folk High Schools
What is the difference between folk high schools in Denmark?
Folk high schools in Denmark differ in their subjects, values, and environments. Some focus on sports, others on arts, politics, or nature. When choosing a school, it’s important to find one with subjects and a community that suit you.
Nordfyns Folk High School combines creative subjects, sports, and culture with an international environment.
Is Nordfyns Folk High School a good school?
Many students choose Nordfyns Folk High School because it offers:
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a strong sense of community
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creative subjects such as ceramics and jewellery
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sports and physical subjects like road cycling and MMA
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courses focused on discussion, personal development, and cultural exchange
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an international environment with students from all over the world
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the option to extend your stay with a trip to Japan
For many students, their time here becomes one of the most memorable chapters of their lives.
Can you both travel and attend a folk high school?
Yes. At some schools, you can combine both.
At Nordfyns Folk High School, you can extend your stay with two months in Japan together with your fellow students. This allows you to experience both a folk high school stay and an international travel adventure.
Is a folk high school a good way to meet international friends?
Yes. Some folk high schools have a particularly strong international environment.
At Nordfyns Folk High School, around half of the students come from abroad, meaning you meet people from many different cultures. This provides both new perspectives and friendships across borders.
In short: Which folk high school should I choose?
If you’re looking for a folk high school with:
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creative subjects
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sports and active courses
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an international community
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the opportunity to travel to Japan
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a strong sense of everyday community
… then Nordfyns Folk High School could be a great choice.
A folk high school stay is not just about classes – it’s also about personal growth, meeting new friends, and gaining experiences that stay with you for life.
