Framework
In 2016 a new type of EVS was launched by the EU Commission. This new EVS differs from the traditional EVS program in the sense that the EVS volunteers now take part in a broader project framework with an overall purpose. However, the EVS volunteers will also undertake other tasks at the project.
In close cooperation with the Association of the Danish Folk High Schools and the Association of Danish “Efterskoler” AFS Interkultur in Denmark has developed a project with the overall purpose of strengthening young people’s European and Global citizenship and their intercultural competences through:
- Strengthening the integration, intercultural understanding and learning among Danish and international students at Folk High Schools and “Efterskoler”
Six Folk High Schools and “Efterskoler” are participating in this project and will each host 1-2 volunteers.
Odder Højskole
Odder Højskole is situated in Odder with is placed in the middle of Denmark 20 kilometres from the city of Aarhus. The college is surrounded by a beautiful park and is close to both beautiful beaches and forests. The college has its own sport centre, beach volley court, shelters, fitness facilities, music studio and a wide range of classrooms. A variety of subjects are offered at the school. The main subjects are: Film & TV Production, Psychology, Art & Design, Music, Body & Mind, Sports & Fitness and Journalism.
The students live, eat, learn, “hygger”, party and grow academically at the Odder Højskole and the days are full of interesting lectures, cultural experiences and activities for both mind and body. In that sense the EVS volunteer will become part of an unique community and get to know people from all over the world.
During the semester both students and teachers go together on a one week study trip – usually to a European capital. Each Wednesday we have our Folk High School Nights, which can be lectures on anthropology, a concert, a tour to a museum or a performance (either dance or theatre). A part from the weekly Folk High School Night, the students also arrange different activities themselves.
At Odder Højskole the motto is “Become who you are” and diversity is highly celebrated. Thus Odder Højskole has students from all over the world. The amount of international students is about 20-25 students out of approximately 100 students at the school.
For more information:
- on the Danish Højskoler (Folk High Schools) please see HERE
- on Odder Folk High School, please see HERE
Tasks
As Odder Højskole has an international profile, the main task of the volunteers will be partly to strengthen the integration between the international and Danish students and partly to prepare students who go abroad for their intercultural experience and culture encounter. The specific activities and events will be created and developed in close cooperation between the volunteer and the staff of the school.
Throughout their stay the volunteer will participate in three seminars arranged by AFS Interkultur with the purpose of giving them tools, knowledge and methods on intercultural learning and culture encounter to develop the activities and events. The seminars will also include evaluation of the project and further reflection on the individual learning of the individual volunteer.
The volunteer will be part of the special fellowship that exists on a Danish Efterskole and Folk High School. As the volunteer are older than the students, he/she will also be positioned as leaders, persons of authority and consultants, and this is a great opportunity for the volunteer to develop her/his pedagogical abilities and the ability to structure and plan events for others.
In addition the volunteer will have other task defined by Odder Højskole. Activities could be:
- Assist the teachers in some of the main subjects depending on interests and skills