grunduddannelse

Grunduddannelse is a Danish term meaning basic education. It refers to the foundational level of education designed to provide learners with essential knowledge, skills, and competences for further study and participation in society. In Danish usage, the term is commonly connected with the early phases of formal schooling and with pathways that prepare students for higher secondary education or vocational training. Depending on policy context, grunduddannelse can describe either the general foundational education offered through the compulsory system or preparatory programs that precede specialized qualifications such as erhvervsuddannelse (vocational education) or gymnasium (upper secondary).

Delivery and governance: The Danish government and municipalities share responsibility for grunduddannelse within a publicly funded system. The aim is to promote equity, inclusion, literacy and numeracy, digital literacy, and social and civic competencies, laying the groundwork for lifelong learning and full participation in the labor market.

Structure and scope: The core objective is to build a common foundation of core subjects—language, mathematics, science, social studies, and arts—together with competencies such as collaboration, problem solving, and digital skills. The exact structure and age range can vary by program and policy, but it is generally linked to the concept of compulsory education and early post-compulsory pathways.

See also: Grundskolen, Gymnasium, Erhvervsuddannelse, Lifelong learning.