Fewer students drop out at Halvorsminde Efterskole in Hjørring as retention strategies prove successful

Fewer subject weeks and international trips, but more everyday activities and time with friends have become a successful strategy for retaining students at Halvorsminde Efterskole and Fri Fagskole in Hjørring. While many other efterskoler are experiencing significant dropout rates during the school year, this northern Jutland school has managed to cut its early dropout rate in half.

Headmaster Jens Beermann emphasized the importance of balancing the curriculum. “As dedicated efterskole staff, we strive to do the best for our students, but we’ve realized that year after year adding more activities isn’t necessarily beneficial. It’s easy to get carried away with planning additional trips and theme weeks,” he said. Out of 130 students, around 20 leave before completing the school year, compared to 40 two years ago.

Students are also encouraged to form friendships quickly to navigate challenges. Anne Sofie Ravnsbæk from Klarup near Aalborg shared, “The most important thing for me was finding friends as soon as possible to have someone to talk to, even about difficult issues.”

Rebild Efterskole is working to support both parents and students better, as fewer students are choosing to leave. Headmaster Troels Schrøder noted that it’s essential to explain that the experience requires hard work and determination.

To further support retention, Dronninglund Efterskole involves students in problem-solving through evening meetings, addressing concerns about school life directly. Headmaster Bitten Schjødt Kjær stated that students are asked for their input on improving school experiences.

Additionally, Halvorsminde Efterskole is preparing parents for challenging days while reassuring them that it doesn’t always mean their child needs to come home. The school has also raised the start fee, leading parents to contemplate the commitment more seriously. In 2023, 32,368 young people enrolled in efterskoler, with a national dropout rate of 13% for the 2022/23 school year.