Students rally in cities across Denmark to protest proposed abolition of 10th grade

In cities such as Hjørring, Aarhus, Aars, Copenhagen, and Odense, 10th-grade students took to the streets today, united under the slogan #Save10thGrade. The protest was organized by school associations to oppose the government’s proposal to abolish the 10th grade by 2030, replacing it with a new vocational and professional high school known as EPX as part of a reform for youth education.

At a busy intersection in Aarhus, Marie Schurizek and her classmates from Koch School held signs advocating for the preservation of the 10th grade. Marie emphasized how much the 10th grade has benefitted her, allowing her to develop academically and socially before pursuing further education. She and her classmate, Anna Clara Jeppesen, expressed the need for additional time to prepare for the leap into youth education, as they felt unready for the demands of high school.

Around 100 students from Koch School participated in a demonstration, rallying support for their cause. Both Marie and Anna Clara insist that it’s crucial for future students to also have the choice of a 10th grade before advancing to youth education. They hope that their efforts reach decision-makers.

Support came from various sectors, including educators and local politicians like Jeppe Korreborg Pedersen, who highlighted the positive impact of 10th grade on students’ maturity and academic development. Faculty members stressed the importance of keeping 10th grade accessible, emphasizing that education should be available to all, not just those who can afford private schooling.

The government’s restructuring plan remains a proposal and will undergo negotiations with other parties in parliament before any decisions are finalized.