The Norse Federation has organized its “Norgesskolen” or Norway School summer program, in Norway since 2003. Every year the program attracts youth from all over the world to Tomb Agricultural School on the outskirts of Oslo.
Last year, 57 students participated in activities such as 17 May (the Norwegian national day) celebrations and Christmas traditions, in addition to classes in Norwegian language, history and society.
The students aged 9- 18 years, also went on excursions, enjoyed the outdoors, and took care of the animals at the farm where the school is located. One of the satisfied participants is 15 year-old Priya Kvam who attended the program for the first time last summer.
"Outside of classes, people spoke all kinds of different languages: English, Spanish, Arabic, but classes were all conducted in Norwegian. I think there was only one person that was actually from Norway", said Priya who has an Indian mother and Norwegian father, and lives in the United States.
The summer school's theme was modern Norwegian history and Norwegian independence from Sweden.
"We had a very full schedule, starting at 7.30 in the morning. Obviously we learned about the language, the culture, writing in Norwegian, gave oral reports and saw Norwegian movies. We went on field trips, visiting farms, Oslo and a lumber mill. We also celebrated all the Norwegian festivities, like May 17 and 'jul' (Christmas)", said Priya.
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NORGESSKOLEN
Age: 9-18 years
Location: Tomb Agricultural School
Duration: 3 weeks
When: 9-28 July 2006
Website: www.norgesskolen.no
Application: Form is available online, and spaces are filled on first come, first serve basis. |
CONCORDIA LANGUAGE VILLAGES
Age: 7- 18 years
Location: Oslo and Sogndal, Norway/ "Skogfjorden", Minnesota, USA
Duration: From 1-4 weeks
When: Start dates in June and July
Website: www.concordialanguagevillages.org
Application: Form is available online, and spaces are filled on first come, first serve basis.
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