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e Magazine Scan
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lT G OLK ia N c e DI N F LS Sp A A LE EGI HOO W SC R H NO HIG
Special Theme
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Leading Norwegian Folk High Schools – Schools that Shape the Future
Leading the way: Ringerike Folkehøgskole and the future of sustainable and responsible learning What if education was about becoming, not just achieving? At Ringerike Folkehøgskole, students spend a transformative year discovering the world and their place in it. With strong values, urban energy, and global reach, the school combines creativity, sustainability, and community into an experience that lingers long after the year is over. By Celina Tran
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Photos: Maria Saxegaard / Kevin Nûno Godtfredsen
In Norway, folk high schools represent a distinct Nordic educational tradition. Born from 19th century ideals of enlightenment and civic participation, the schools offer a year of learning without exams or grades. Instead of competing for marks, students explore creativity, reflection, and community. For many young Norwegians, it is a year to grow, gain perspective, and prepare for what comes next. One of these is Ringerike Folkehøgskole, located in the lively town of Hønefoss, just an hour northwest of Oslo. Approaching 74
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Issue 184
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November 2025
its 150th anniversary in 2026, Ringerike has evolved from its historic roots into a dynamic, forward-looking institution. “There is this myth going around that a year in folk high school is simply a gap year, but that’s not the case at all,” says Morten Eikenes, principal at Ringerike Folkehøgskole. “Our students participate more actively here than they ever have before. We are a professional school with a high academic standard and dedicated staff. This is a place where students mature, find direction,