The Danish government yesterday submitted its proposal for a reform of upper-secondary schools (gymnasiums) to Parliament. 

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According to the government, the proposal introduces grade requirements for gymnasiums that should in the future better prepare young people for further education and make sure students are well-equipped for the labour market.

Pupils will need to acquire a minimum grade 4, a ‘fair performance’ on the seven-point grading scale, in both mathematics and Danish in order to get enrolled.

The requirement will gradually be phased over the next three years. For example, applicants who wish to attend upper-secondary school in 2017 and 2018 will only need a grade 02 in the subjects.

Prior to the change, students simply needed approval from their teachers at public school.

Focus on maths and science
The government also wants to modernise and improve the quality of education at vocational secondary schools and give students the possibility to choose specialisations early on.

In order to meet the needs of Danish society, the government will place special emphasis on science, mathematics, foreign languages, and writing and digital skills.

Additionally, the government proposes to provide students with a quick intro to courses, so that they can find out if the subjects are interesting for them before they choose their specialisation.

Furthermore, the government plans to improve students’ general knowledge, enhance their performance in exams and prevent cheating at schools.