Help to self-help. That is the principle that defines Kofoeds Skole. Since 1928, Kofoeds Skole has been a beacon of hope. It offers support to socially vulnerable people. The goal is to empower them to improve their lives.
Kofoeds Skole was founded by Hans Christian Kofoed. He was a clergyman on Christianshavn. By the time of his death in 1952, he had assisted approximately 50,000 people. He helped them to achieve a better life. Kofoed’s approach was rooted in Christian and humanitarian values. The Danish folk high school movement also inspired him.
Why is it called a school? Because it is a place of learning. Everyone who attends Kofoeds Skole is considered a student. The school believes everyone thrives when they can take responsibility for their life.
At Kofoeds Skole’s workshops, students collaborate. They work alongside educational staff. They work toward common goals. Through this, they gain new skills. Every day, over 600 students attend Kofoeds Skole. They attend various departments in Copenhagen and Jutland.
Besides Copenhagen, Kofoeds Skole has branches in Aarhus, Aalborg and Nuuk. There are also affiliated schools in several Central and Eastern European countries.
Since its beginning in 1928, Kofoeds School has been acquiring facilities. These facilities outside the main school in Copenhagen suit the different kinds of students. They serve their specific problems.
What kind of immediate help is available here? As a student at Kofoeds Skole, you can earn access to various benefits. This principle has been in place since the school’s beginning in 1928. When someone does something good for themselves, it triggers a reward. This could be food, a bath, laundry, or access to clothing.
The school assists people in finding their way to a more active life. It can be about returning to the labor market. It can also be about adding more content to their daily lives.
You can attend Kofoeds Skole. This is possible while receiving unemployment benefits or other public support. Kofoeds Skole offers a program. It is individually tailored to those who need support. The support can be to develop professionally, socially and personally. They also offer counseling and practical help. Last but not least, they offer social interaction.
As a student at Kofoeds Skole, you can participate in a wide range of classes. You can participate in workshop subjects and projects. You can get job training. You can clarify job aspirations. You can get help with personal development.
There are 11 different workshops. There are also more than 120 different educational offerings. Kofoeds Skole employs various consultants. They come once a week. Students at Kofoeds Skole can have one or more consultations with these consultants. The consultants provide guidance.
Kofoeds Skole is transforming. It is evolving from an institution into an urban village. It is becoming more integrated into the local area. Yet, it retains its identity. It remains a safe place for the socially vulnerable. Kofoeds Skole is not just a school. It is a community. It is a place where people can rebuild their lives. Kofoeds Skole embodies the spirit of “help to self-help”. It offers hope. It offers opportunity. It offers a path to a better future for those who need it most.