Borgarholtsskóli celebrates 30 years with 1,400 students

Borgarholtsskóli, an upper secondary school in Grafarvogur, Reykjavík, is marking its 30th anniversary with events on Thursday. The school has about 1,400 students from 29 countries and 160 staff, and offers 31 study programmes, mbl.is reports.

Despite its size, the school has retained a welcoming atmosphere and close relationships between students and staff, principal Ásta Laufey Aðalsteinsdóttir said. She has worked there since 2000, when she first joined as a student teacher.

“I was drawn to the energy, variety, ambitious teaching and lively methods,” she said. After taking a temporary teaching job, she stayed at the school, though she has held several different roles there.

Ásta Laufey said students arrive with a wide range of academic results. She praised the work of teachers and other school staff, saying many students overcome obstacles and graduate successfully.

The school has an athletics academy and arts programmes in graphic design, filmmaking and drama. Ásta Laufey said graduates from those fields have gone on to become well-known artists. Students also compete in many sports, and some pursue their sports careers abroad.

Borgarholtsskóli is also an important centre for vocational training, offering courses in sheet-metal work, turning, steelwork, mechanical engineering and plumbing. Automotive options include vehicle mechanics, vehicle bodywork and car painting. Students complete workplace training and take a journeyman examination in their chosen trade.