ABOUT THE SCHOOL
Sogndal Folk High School is idyllically located between fjord, mountains and glacier. With immediate proximity to wild and untouched nature, and top-notch ski and sports facilities. A short walk along the fjord path takes you to the center of Sogndal.
The history of Sogndal Folk High School
Sogndal Folk High School was founded on January 9, 1871 by Jakob Liv Rosted Sverdrup, who later became a member of parliament and government minister. We are proud to be one of the first folk high schools in Norway.
-
Our history:
The school started with 30 students and was located in the old Sorenskrivergården (District Recorder's Residence) at Loftesnes.
In 1875, we moved to Helgheim, where we are still located today.
On the grounds, you will still find Haugehuset, one of the original buildings from 1875.
Teaching and community
From the beginning, we have had a different approach to teaching, with a focus on lectures and discussions:
Discussion evenings: Political and religious issues were discussed every Wednesday.
Books and religion: Unlike the Danish folk high school model, we used textbooks and taught religion.
A modern, liberal folk high school
Today, we are a medium-sized folk high school with around 100 students each year. We offer exciting programs with a focus on sustainability, sports, outdoor life and photography.
Focus on sustainability: Our programs address important topics such as the environment and nature.
Liberal school: We focus on personal development, openness and freedom of thought.
Organization of the school
Sogndal Folk High School is today a foundation with a board consisting of:
Two representatives from the employees
A student representative
Four representatives from the local community
The principal as secretary
Sogndal Folk High School - a free-spirited school
Sogndal Folk High School is a school that places freedom, openness and personal development at the center.
No exams: The focus is on the learning process, not the results.
Personal growth: We emphasize your development as an individual, both academically and socially.
Diversity: Our values are based on tolerance, inclusion, and respect for different beliefs and backgrounds.
Community: You will become part of a safe and inclusive community.
Openness: Liberal-minded means that we are politically and religiously independent, and that we promote open dialogue and free opinions.
Owner: Sogndal Folk High School Foundation
Student places: 90
Age limit: 18 years
Location
Sogndal is located in the middle of beautiful Sogn, surrounded by fjords, mountains and glaciers. The small but lively village is known for its active outdoor life, whether you want to experience mountain peaks on foot, climb, ski or paddle on the fjord. Sogndal is also a hub for outdoor activities, and many are attracted by the unique combination of magnificent nature and a social, vibrant student environment.
The village is approximately 3.5 hours from Bergen by car, while Oslo can be reached in about 5.5 hours. The nearest airport, Sogndal Airport Haukåsen, is only 20 minutes away, making it easy to travel to and from larger cities in Norway. Sogndal gives you the opportunity to be close to nature, while also having access to city life when you want it.
-
Sogndal Ski Center - Hodlekve, 15km, 15 minutes by car/bus
Sogn Ski Center - 17km, 18 minutes by car/bus
Sports center - 2km, 8 minutes by bike
Climbing hall - 2km, 8 minutes by bike
Climbing area Kvam - 4 km, 15 minutes by bike
Cultural center with cinema - 650 meters
Sogningen shopping center with shops, pharmacy etc. - 700 meters
Cafe, nightlife, park - 950 meters
Bus stop by the school, 20 meters. The bus stop is called Helgheim
Fosshaugane Campus, home ground of Sogndal football - 1.9Km
Swimming facility, Lustrabadet - 28km
Hiking areas are in the immediate vicinity
Life at folk high school
School project
Throughout the year, several major events are organized, both for the students only, but also days when we invite family and former students to the school.
-
Autumn Festival
The autumn festival is a tradition at Sogndal Folk High School, where we enjoy the food we have gathered throughout the autumn. Through the project "Matauk" the students have picked apples, berries, and fished in the fjord. On this day we celebrate with a festive dinner based on what we have harvested and caught ourselves.Grand Prix
Our own version of the Eurovision Song Contest is a highlight! The students create their own songs and stage shows. The evening ends with the awarding of winners, and becomes a colorful and creative celebration.Reunion
Every year we invite former students to a reunion, where they can reminisce about the year they had, and see how the school has developed. Current students also gain insight into how the folk high school year can influence the future.Family Day
Family Day gives family and friends the chance to visit the school and get an insight into the students' everyday life. There will be activities and entertainment that the whole family can participate in, and the day creates a nice connection between school and family life.
Evening activities
At Sogndal Folk High School there is always something social and fun going on in the evenings. We offer a variety of different activities that everyone can participate in, whether you like to be active or creative.
-
Sports activities: Join various sports activities such as volleyball, football, yoga, or strength training.
Creative activities: Unleash your creativity with, for example, knitting or other crafts.
Friday quiz: Every Friday, the scholarship holders arrange a quiz where everyone can join and where the themes vary!
Student night and entertainment: Saturday evenings often offer student nights or other entertainment arranged by the school's students.
Sunday hikes: Sundays are often organized for trips in the mountains and the areas around the school.
The monthly bath: A fun feature is monthly dip, where we take a dip in the sea from the school's jetty, all year round.
Staff, second-year students and the student council all help to initiate various activities. In addition, there is always a staff member available at the school in the evenings.