2_0_ScanMag_70_Nov_2014_Text:Scan Magazine 1
5/11/14
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Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Education in Denmark
TOP RIGHT: The school puts on 20 shows each year, performed by all 170 students. RIGHT: The school upgraded its facilities in 2009. Here: the new tumble hall.
Where there’s a will, there’s a way “The sky is the limit” is one of the mottos of Skyum Idrætsefterskole in north Jutland. The gymnastic-focused sports school believes in setting a high bar for its students. By Ann Bille Simonsen | Photos: Skyum Idrætsefterskole
“We are ambitious on our students’ behalf,” principal Hanne Haldrup explains, “but we also expect discipline, as we believe that’s a good foundation for the students’ wellbeing.” This philosophy seems to agree with the students. Former student Emma Cecilie Voxnæs Søndergaard explains how it provided a sense of security to her, when she started her school year. “To rappel from a 43-metre high tower is no big deal, but waving goodbye to my mum on my first day here, that was tough. What made it easier was the structure here – I loved that they made sure I always knew what to do.” Gymnastics as the team builder At Skyum Idrætsefterskole the students get to experience the Danish gymnastics tradition. Gymnastics is mandatory; and four times a week they practise strength, jumps, rhythm and balance. The school is
renowned for its big, professional gymnastic shows – 20 during a school year – with all students included. Current student Astrid Damsgaard, 16, recalls when she saw one of the shows a few years ago. “I was hooked, as soon as I saw the show,” she says, thinking back on why she chose Skyum Idrætsefterskole. “The teamwork and unity you felt when they blew the audience away with their show was just amazing. I knew then and there I wanted to be part of that!” “One of the biggest reasons why our students come here is the school spirit,” the principal says. Gymnastics is a big part of that – but it’s not necessary in order to have great experience when joining Skyum Idrætsefterskole. “Of our 170 students, 100 will typically not have done gymnastics before,” Haldrup estimates.
Besides gymnastics, the students are able to choose their own sport as a major focus, for example badminton, football or handball – and then there are a number of optional subjects. The students are able to practise their own sport as well as trying out new things. “It’s no doubt a tough year with a high tempo and a high level of activity – but it’s a year where they will grow a lot and get tons of experience,” the principal concludes.
Principal Hanne Haldrup
For more information, please visit: www.skyum.dk
Issue 70 | November 2014 | 65