In a few days, it will be the official start of the school term for many children in Denmark. How is it to start school in a new country?
We decided to find a place to live in Roskilde, so the children will be very close to the school. I will be the one commuting to my work in Copenhagen, but I have no problem with that.
We asked Doriana from Italy, a newcomer in Denmark and mother of two, how her children feel with starting school soon – in a completely new country and new school environment.
Doriana, how old are your children and where will they start school? I have a nine-year-old daughter and an 11year-old son. We registered them at Skt. Josef´s School, about 30 km from Copenhagen in the historic centre of Roskilde. They have an international department, which covers Year 1 to Year 11 and is based on the Cambridge International Examination programme. Could you tell us why you picked up Skt. Josef´s School? Well, there are different reasons, but first of all the environment was really important for us. I visited many schools and Skt. Josef was my favorite. It is a beautiful place surrounded by parks, away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. The staff I met there was so kind and understanding. You know, as a parent, your biggest concern is how your children will do, especially when you move to another country. In that matter, it is so important that they thrive at school. But I have a good feeling with Skt. Josef. I think they will like it here.
How are your children doing so far with the prospect of starting in a new school in a foreign country? So far quite positive. My daughter is very open to new things and she looks forward to meeting new friends. My son doesn´t seem too anxious yet. He would have had to change school anyway in Italy because he is 11 years old. It is a bit of an adventure for them, and they are curious to learn more about their new environment.