Ællingen

Ællingen – Community, Imagination and Big Steps Forward

This school year in Ællingen has been filled with memorable experiences, cherished traditions and exciting new beginnings. It has been a year in which the children challenged themselves, strengthened friendships and took important steps towards the next stage of their journey.

Growing in Confidence

As always, the school year began with one of the most anticipated events in Ællingen: the annual residential camp. For many children, it is their first experience of spending nights away from home, making it both exciting and a little daunting.

The days were filled with outdoor adventures, games, campfires, new friendships and cosy evenings together. By the time the children returned home, they were not only full of stories and memories but also proud of everything they had achieved. The camp is a powerful reminder that children are often capable of far more than they realise.

Traditions That Bring Us Together

Community and smooth transitions play an important role in life at Ællingen. One of the year’s most beautiful traditions was the Lucia celebration, where the children preparing to start school took part in the annual procession during the shared Christmas celebration with Svanereden. With candles in their hands and songs filling the darkness, they created one of the most magical moments of the year.

The year also introduced a new tradition that quickly became a favourite: the Southern Jutland Cake Table and Community Singing Evening. Children, siblings and parents came together to share homemade cakes, sing familiar songs and enjoy each other’s company. It was a wonderful evening that highlighted the strong sense of belonging that defines Ællingen.

Vikings, Adventure and Curiosity

One of the year’s most popular themes was Vikings, and the children’s enthusiasm ensured that the project grew far beyond its original scope. They explored Viking life, trade, travel, mythology and culture, wrote their names in runes and immersed themselves in creative and hands-on activities.

The topic was brought to life through visits to the National Museum and the Viking Ship Museum in Roskilde, where history became tangible and engaging. The project concluded with a Viking Market Day, where the children traded handmade clay beads, dried fruit and Viking porridge in front of their very own Viking ship.

Friendship and Community

On 1 May, we welcomed a new group of children into the Ællingen community. Through games, activities and a friendship-themed programme, the children worked together to build new relationships and help everyone feel included.

The theme culminated in the Fri for Mobberi Teddy Bear Run, where every child ran with a teddy bear in one hand and a friend in the other. The event celebrated friendship, kindness and community – values that remain at the heart of everyday life in Ællingen.

The year also introduced popular boys’ and girls’ evenings, where children enjoyed special activities, games, music, shared meals and plenty of fun together. These evenings quickly became highlights of the year for both children and staff.

A New Home

One of the biggest milestones of the year was the move into NGG’s new school building. After years of planning and anticipation, children, parents and staff were finally able to move into the new surroundings.

The first day was marked with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the building and great excitement. Although the surroundings were new, it did not take long before the warmth, atmosphere and spirit of Ællingen felt right at home. The new facilities have also created even more opportunities for play, learning and community.

Together in Preschool

The move has brought Early Years and Ællingen closer together than ever before. Through shared activities, excursions and play, children have had many opportunities to build relationships across the Preschool community.

One of the year’s most memorable projects was Adopt a Chick. Children from across Preschool adopted eggs, completed adoption certificates and eagerly followed the hatching process. Songs were sung, stories were read and the eggs were carefully cared for until, to the delight of everyone, colourful little chicks finally arrived.

Ready for the Next Chapter

The school year concluded with the much-loved Gala celebration for the children preparing to start school. With smart outfits, pizza, dancing, games and plenty of hugs, the event marked both the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.

The Gala is a celebration of everything the children have experienced during their time in Ællingen and a recognition that they are ready for what comes next. Looking back on the year, there is no doubt that they have grown in confidence, independence and curiosity. Equipped with strong friendships and a love of learning, they are ready for the exciting adventures that await them.