From the USA to Nordfjordeid to spend a year at Fjordane Folk High School
Line: Outdoor life | Explorer 360
Who: Alex Lofting | Father of pupil (William)
Year: 2024-2025
– For William, the year is on Fjordane Folk High School has been absolutely crucial. He has been able to experience nature, community and challenges in a way that has made him safer, stronger and more independent, says his father Alex Lofting from the USA.
Alex (father) and William (student) on vacation in Trondheim. The photo was taken from the historic city bridge. Photo: Private.
A year that gave William everything – and then some
– There is something very special about the environment at the school. The teachers and staff see the students, and there is always someone watching and caring. For us parents, who have our son so far from home, it means everything to know that he is safe. William has felt both supported and included, even though he has lived far from home, says Alex.
The father highlights the combination of activity and care as something very special. – He has been able to try everything possible out in nature, with teachers who really know their subject and know how to bring out the best in each student. It has given William both mastery and courage.
– William has become much more independent. Living alone in a new country, learning to take responsibility and being part of a community has done him good, says his father.
Friends from all over Europe
One of the highlights was the big trip abroad to Austria with the linja. It was an experience that gave him additional perspective and the chance to experience more of Europe. Throughout the year on Fjordane Folk High School William has made friends from all over Scandinavia and Europe. This has given him a lot of joy, but also a broader social and cultural understanding,
– The fact that Fjordane promotes a healthy and active life has had a great impact on both William's physical and mental health. The year in Norway has been an invaluable experience that has really contributed to William's personal development, says Alex.
Alex has no doubts about the value of the year:
– This has been a fantastic year in every way. It has given William life experience, security and motivation to face the future. I can highly recommend Fjordane Folk High School "To everyone who wants a meaningful year that gives the youth skills and experiences they will benefit from for the rest of their lives," concludes father Alex, proudly.