Denmark's strategy for lifelong learning

The quality of education shall be enhanced at all levels so that it fulfilscurrent and future needs for competences and new knowledge in enterprises,in the labour market and in society. There must be a greater cohesionbetween the various education pathways and levels so that individualscan obtain qualifications and skills in a flexible way, and all youngpeople shall have an education with a global outlook. The educationsystem must be inclusive so that there is room for everyone – far toomany drops out today. In addition, more people have to go fasterthrough education so that the resources are used efficiently.The Government has laid down the following specific targets and initiativesconcerning all levels in the education system – from pre-school tohigher education at university level.PreschoolDay-care facilities and preschool class play a very important role in thepersonal, intellectual and social development of children. A child’s linguisticdevelopment has particular importance for the way it copes ineducation. This applies not least to children of an ethnic backgroundother than Danish. It is therefore important to improve cohesionbetween day-care facilities and basic school.It is the Government’s aim that all children shall have a good start inschool. This shall be achieved through the following initiatives in particular:ffffLanguage assessment is introduced for all children at the age ofthree and again at the age of six at the start of the pre-school classso that the education and teaching can be based on the linguisticabilities of the individual.Compulsory education is extended from nine to ten years of schoolingby making the preschool class an obligatory part of basic school.Curricula are prepared in all day-care facilities.Subject-based teaching in Danish, especially reading, is introduced inthe preschool class.12 A world-class education system