Applications surge for folk high school programs in Norway

The couch by the main entrance is fully occupied for the next fifteen minutes. In casual black hoodies featuring their favorite album, with checkered flat caps and long hairstyles, students share their enthusiasm. “It’s amazing here. It’s great to have a year without worrying about grades. I haven’t regretted it for a second,” says one student, reflecting on a growing interest in folk high schools after a period marked by declining applications.

Laughter fills the room as a group of students takes a break from their elective course on rock history. The excitement is palpable as they share personal stories. “I found out there’s a rock program here, and I’m passionate about rock music,” one remarks, while another shares that this has been a long-held dream.

The students express clear motivations for choosing Trøndertun. One needed structure in life, while another sought a break to become more social. “You get time to think, explore a bit, and learn how to grow up,” says Ruben Vollaug Lindholm, a 20-year-old scholarship student at Trøndertun. He enjoys composing in one of the school’s many practice rooms, focusing entirely on his passion thanks to the four daily meals provided.

This year, the application deadline has shifted from February 1 to November 15, a change the school’s principal, Tormod Gjersvold, views positively as applications have more than doubled compared to last year’s figures. “After the pandemic, we’ve faced challenges, but now we see recovery,” he explains, emphasizing the strong community forged through shared passions.

Prospective students are encouraged to apply early to alleviate uncertainties about the following autumn. “Living at school provides a smooth transition from home, and many find lifelong friends here,” says Dorte Birch from the folk high school information office. Recently, there has been a notable increase in applications, highlighting a shift in interest toward these programs.