Denmark Bans School Phones as PISA Test Scores Drop

Denmark announced a total ban on phones and smart devices in schools. Education Minister Magnus Heunicke called the recent PISA survey results a serious education crisis. Denmark recorded its worst-ever scores in the global PISA test. Officials blame screens and smartphones for distracting students during classes.

The news prompted reflections on Danish education in a column for The Local Denmark. Editor Becky Waterton shared her experience at a Danish folk high school, or højskole. Denmark is seeking UNESCO intangible heritage status for these iconic schools. The concept stems from 19th-century philosopher N.F.S. Grundtvig. He believed education should build independence and stay accessible to everyone. Teenagers often attend these boarding schools or similar efterskoler before upper secondary school.

Folk high schools offer learning without exams, grades, or official certificates. Students study Danish culture, music, and language simply for the joy of learning. Waterton suggested these stress-free environments might help students who face growing pressure.

The outlet also reviewed ongoing updates to Danish citizenship policies. Some applicants face potential delays with applications frozen until late 2027. Finally, contributor Emma Pouncey published a guide to autumn craft courses in Copenhagen.