Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Study in Denmark
An international, homely and quirky learning environment Odense International School provides internationally recognised primary and secondary education for students aged five to 16. With over 40 nationalities represented, cultural diversity is at the heart of the school. The school’s holistic approach to learning encourages children’s natural curiosity while supporting personal development across platforms such as sports, performing arts, charity work and Model United Nations. By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Odense International School
Odense is a rapidly growing city and one of Europe’s biggest robotics hubs, with a highly skilled, international workforce. “The international school has naturally grown out of the existing emphasis on language learning and global perspectives. We celebrate differences, encourage multilingualism and nurture a school community that has a proven track record of being welcoming and including,” says Johanne Skaanes-Allo, head of the school.
Diversity is a gift Odense International School is based next to a Danish mother school, Henriette 106 | Issue 109 | February 2018
Hørlücks School, established in 1870. “We have one campus and two systems,” explains Skaanes-Allo. There are currently 48 different languages spoken by the students and teachers, so it is clear that the school is very multicultural. This diversity provides the community with a wealth of learning opportunities and allows for a sense of authenticity whether the students are studying geography, world religions or politics. The school community prizes curiosity and tolerance. Ultimately, the aim is to make everyone feel comfortable, valued and at home. Students in the Danish and
international system enjoy each other’s company and promote community spirit through school sports, school dances, travel, art exhibitions, assemblies, French theatre festival and more. “We enjoy providing local Danish families with international networks and international families with local roots. We may have two curriculum systems, but we aim to be one school community,” Skaanes-Allo explains.
Nurturing children’s natural curiosity and looking to the future “The beautiful red-brick school buildings are a little Hogwarts-esque,” Skaanes-Allo laughs. The quirky decorations inside the school help support the unique, slightly magical feel of the place, with artwork dotted around the hallways, and kayaks, bicycles and musical instruments dangling from the ceiling in the assembly hall. “Our school has a strong focus on inquirybased learning, and we want to support