Herning brings volunteer retirees into 20 public schools

Volunteer adults now support pupils in 20 of Herning Municipality’s 23 public schools, as well as at a special school and a youth school, DR reports. The volunteers, known as school friends, are typically retired people who help for a few hours each week.

They listen to children read, talk with them and join in games during breaks. Herning Municipality says the volunteers help pupils find a sense of community.

“There is simply so much value in having an adult who has no responsibility for teaching and does not have to lead lessons, but is there as an extra adult who always has time,” said Lillian Krarup, head of Snejbjerg School.

The municipality began working with the association Skolens Venner, which provides school volunteers, a few years ago. The association says interest has surged: it received 553 enquiries from prospective volunteers in 2025 and had already received more than 1,200 in 2026.

“Many people want to do something for children and young people,” said Sigrid Larsen, the association’s secretary-general. “Our school is more than an educational institution. It is our school, and many people want to support it and be part of it.”

Herning’s educational development consultant, Michael Frimoth Hansen, said the volunteers are not a replacement for professional staff. Teachers and pedagogical staff retain full responsibility, while school friends provide additional support. The municipality evaluates the programme twice a year to make sure its boundaries remain clear.