Why is this place called Falkonergårdens Gymnasium og HF-kursus? The name itself hints at a rich history. Let’s uncover the story of this Frederiksberg institution.
Falkonergårdens Gymnasium og HF-kursus began as Marie Bobergs Pigeskole in 1908. It was formed by merging J.H. Teisens højere Pigeskole and Marie Bobergs Skole. The school became Dr. Priemes Vejs Gymnasium in 1916. In 1919, the state took over and renamed it Falkonergårdens Gymnasium.
For many years, Falkonergårdens Gymnasium was a traditional school. It focused on mathematics and languages. In the 1970s, it expanded. A HF-kursus or Higher Preparatory Examination course was added. In 1974, it pioneered a music/mathematics/language program. Back then, Falkonergårdens Gymnasium was known as Denmark’s most progressive gymnasium. Many teachers were politically left-leaning.
The school’s physical presence has evolved too. The current buildings were constructed in 1955. Architect Thomas Havning designed them using red and yellow brick. The complex included two two-story wings with classrooms and subject rooms. There was also a library, an auditorium, and two gymnasiums. A rector’s residence and a caretaker’s house completed the school grounds. These buildings framed the schoolyard and a green area.
In 1986, Frederiksberg Municipality took over the operation of Falkonergårdens Gymnasium. It had been a state-run school. In 2007, it became self-governing. Like other gymnasiums in Denmark, it gained more autonomy.
Falkonergårdens Gymnasium embraced modernity. It adopted internet and intranet technologies. It participated in Operation Dagsværk. This is a student-led fundraising campaign.
Falkonergårdens Gymnasium is known for its Team Danmark program. This program supports elite athletes. It began in 1991 with 24 students. These students had four years to complete their upper secondary education. This allowed them more time for training and competitions. The program expanded to include a three-year HF option. In 2019, the school had several Team Danmark classes. They included students from the Royal Ballet. Notable athletes have attended Falkonergårdens Gymnasium. Pernille Blume, Magnus Landin, and Jeanette Ottesen are among them.
The school added new facilities in recent years. In 2015, a new multimedia and sports hall opened. It won awards from Frederiksberg Municipality and the Architects’ Association. In 2017, a new academic wing provided space for 1,000 students. The old rector’s residence was removed during this expansion.
Sofia Thøgersen set a Danish record in the 1500 meters in 2023. She was a student at Falkonergårdens Gymnasium.
Many notable figures have graduated from Falkonergårdens Gymnasium. They include writer Finn Abrahamowitz and actress Christiane Schaumburg-Müller. Bo Svensson a professional soccer player also attended this school.
Falkonergårdens Gymnasium og HF-kursus continues to thrive. It balances academic rigor with a strong sense of community. It supports both academic and athletic excellence.