Challenge Explore – Spring 2027

  • Course length: Halvår — vår
  • Start-up date: 06.01.2027
  • Course teaching amount: 17 hours/week
  • Price: from NOK 96 850,-
  • Foundation:
    Christian?
    The Christian folk high schools are built on Christian values. They are owned by, or associated with, Christian organizations or denominations. They encourage students with different interests and beliefs to apply.
  • Food: Vegetarian, vegan?
    Most schools will accommodate food allergies and other dietary needs. If you have questions, please contact the school directly.
  • Location: Verdal
  • Study tour: Australia and Asia
Send applicationBakketun Folkehøgskole

Join us for a spring filled with adventure – from hiking and surfing to backpacking, cultural experiences and volunteer work. Gain new perspectives, new friends and memories for life.

Challenges, outdoor life and personal growth

Challenge Explore is for you who want to experience more – both in nature and while travelling. Through trips, teamwork and new challenges, you’ll try things you may never have done before and discover what you are capable of.

We make active use of the nature around Bakketun. Activities may include hiking, ice bathing, paddling, campfire evenings, overnight trips and solo challenges. You’ll also learn basic outdoor skills, map reading, navigation and trip planning.

Community is an important part of the course. We solve challenges together, support each other and grow more confident both individually and as a group.

Backpacking, culture and volunteer work

A major part of the spring is the study trip to Australia and Asia. Students help plan and shape the journey, gaining practical experience in travel planning, budgeting, transport and choosing activities.

The trip combines backpacking, activities and cultural experiences. In Australia, this may include surfing, national parks and city life. In Asia, we may visit temples, markets and local communities, try local food and experience everyday life in a different culture.

We also support Baan Chivit Mai children’s home in Thailand through fundraising and visit the project during the trip.

Challenge Explore gives you a spring filled with travel, outdoor activities, culture, teamwork and unforgettable experiences.

Mandatory: Yes

Price: Included in course price

Duration: 4-5 uker

Meals included per day: 3

Travel, explore and experience are key parts of Challenge Explore. During the course, you’ll take part in trips in Norway and abroad – and as a student, you’ll help plan parts of the journey yourself.

4-week study trip to Australia and Asia

In Australia, we may explore Sydney, surf at Bondi Beach, snorkel, experience the west coast or travel inland to watch the sunrise over Uluru. There may also be opportunities for activities such as skydiving. Along the way, we learn more about Australia’s history, culture, landscapes and wildlife, and meet local people who share their perspectives and stories.

In Asia, we visit markets, temples, local organisations and communities, experience new cultures and try local food. Previous trips have included Thailand and Vietnam.

Bakketun also supports Baan Chivit Mai, a children’s home in northern Thailand. Students take part in fundraising before the trip, and visiting the project is an important part of the journey.

The trip combines backpacking, cultural experiences, adventure and practical travel planning – giving you the chance to explore new places while becoming more confident and independent.

Mandatory: Yes

Price: Included in course price

Duration: 1 uke

Meals included per day: 3

The group trip to Spain is one of the highlights at the beginning of the school year – and the perfect way to get to know your fellow students and teachers. For the 2025–2026 school year, we’re heading to sunny Andalusia, with our base near the coastal town of Rota.

During the trip, you’ll have the chance to try surfing, play frisbee golf, join bike rides, and relax with the group on the beach. We’ll also visit exciting places like the historic city of Seville and the unique area of Gibraltar – known for its monkeys, British culture, and stunning views.

This trip is just as much about building community as it is about exploring new places. You’ll connect with people from different lines and have time to settle into what could become one of the best years of your life. All meals and activities are included in the tuition – you just need some pocket money for the extras.

Age limits

The course is normally open to students aged 18 and above up to 26.

Admission requirements

The course has no specific admission requirements. Offers of admission are made following an assessment based on the school’s overall educational approach. We aim to work together with our students to foster a positive school environment, so your motivation to contribute both academically and socially is important. We therefore place great emphasis on what you write about yourself and your reasons for wanting to attend Bakketun.

Furthermore, we look for the ability to work both independently and collaboratively, alongside an interest in your own personal growth and that of others.

Priority criteria

When there are many applicants, the school places emphasis on factors such as motivation, interest in the school’s study programmes and subjects, and the composition of the applicant group.

Admission process

You apply using the school's application form. Applications are processed on a rolling basis, and you will receive a response via email once your application has been processed.

At Bakketun, you’ll get to explore your interests, try new things and become part of a warm, inclusive community. Early in the school year, we go on a shared trip to Spain – the perfect way to get to know each other and kickstart an unforgettable year.

You’ll meet teachers who care, support you and encourage you to take chances. You’ll have space to reflect, discover what matters to you, and grow both personally and academically. A year at Bakketun gives you direction, confidence and meaningful experiences – preparing you for further studies, work, and life ahead.

Explore and combine

Choose between several exciting programs and a wide range of electives. Are you active and adventurous, or creative and curious? You don’t have to choose one or the other – at Bakketun, you can combine, explore, and find your own balance.

We’re surrounded by mountains, forest, sea and small-town life. You’ll feel the thrill of a mountain hike, the peace of the woods, the wind on a surfboard and the laughter around a campfire. Some days challenge you – others are just about enjoying the moment together.

A real community

What students remember most about Bakketun is the people. You’ll be part of a safe and supportive community where everyone matters. You’ll make friends to laugh with, grow with, and share everyday life with – friends who cheer you on when you try something new.

You’ll live close to others, share meals, trips, and everyday moments. The community you become part of leaves a mark – and often lasts a lifetime.

Welcome to Bakketun – a year that might mean more than you expect.

Courses at the school

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