ROOM FOR DEVELOPMENT The teaching at Skanderborg Production School is based on six different workshops – building and construction, photo/video, kitchen, textiles, iron and metal and, finally, multimedia. The intention is that the activities on offer at the various workshops are so broad that they can provide students with a wide choice of varied possibilities. Common to all the workshops is that

they produce items which are sold to customers. At the heart of the production school’s philosophy is the assumption that it is possible to establish individual training courses which combine practical and theoretical teaching. The theoretical teaching is thus integrated in the practical work in the workshops, while teaching in Danish, mathematics, sport and art is also available.

Furthermore, it is also possible to initiate special training courses such as EGU, a two-year basic vocational training course, Pro-Erhverv, a course designed in cooperation between the vocational schools and the production schools, and a combination course, where part of the teaching takes place elsewhere, for example at adult education centres. It is also possible for students to work as a trainee in private companies and public institutions.

The school enjoys good relations with local trade and industry, and this explains why many students find work immediately after leaving the school. The location of the school on an industrial estate strengthens this cooperation. The teaching is supplemented with intensive careers guidance so that students on leaving the school have a clear idea about their own future. Students come from the entire region, but the majority from the Municipality of Skanderborg. They come either directly from lower secondary school or after having been engaged in youth training or work. Skanderborg Production School wishes to play an active role in the local community through local collaboration and by supporting and participating in cultural activities.

Skanderborg Production School wishes to be seen as a dynamic institution, characterised by flexibility, and centred around the individual student. It is important for the school to take part in what is happening, and it is therefore an active player in the development of the school structure. In this respect, the school is involved in regional, national and international development projects targeted at young people under the age of 25 who have not complete any other youth education. The school is an independent institution with a board which consists of representatives of labour market organisations. The Municipality of Skanderborg gives the school a basic subsidy, but the Ministry of Education is the most important source of finance.