Job shadowing, Sommer Pa O, Aarhus, Denmark

I spent two weeks at the end of June and beginning of July doing a job-shadowing program at the Sommer Pa O day camp in Aarhus, Denmark. It was a time when I could devote myself fully to the children, discover the unique aspects of youth work in Denmark, and be enchanted by the local nature.

About three hundred children attended every day during the first week, and even though it was an official event organized by all the youth clubs in Aarhus under the auspices of the local council—so there were plenty of adults there—it was still quite a bustle. I had a lot of fun talking with the local youth workers, not only about what their roles at the camp, but also about how their youth club operates throughout the year, and I tried to help wherever needed.

The second week, when there were fewer children and the weather was much worse, I took charge of creative activities for the children that did not require knowledge of the local language (which I do not speak), but which also suited me very well. I had almost forgotten how enjoyable it is, to just do something with my hands while chatting with kids of all ages.

Mollestien street, with its Flight of the swallow mural, Aarhus

Summer vacation in Denmark lasts just over a month, so all the kids want to enjoy it to the fullest. So this camp, which was free for everyone who attended, was a great opportunity to do just that. In addition to many sports and arts-and-crafts activities, they could also choose from a wide range of water attractions—from catching crabs, to paddle boarding, speedboat rides, or riding the “banana” (a small inflatable boat towed by a speedboat). I have tried the speedboat ride, which was fantastic and adrenaline pumping in itself, and the view of Aarhus Harbour and the famous O district—full of whimsical, sea-inspired buildings—was just the icing on the cake.

I spent my free weekend exploring the surrounding area and the city centre and its attractions. From a walk along the beach to a visit to the botanical garden, the tropical greenhouse, and the nearby villages and pastures. There is something interesting around every corner, and because it rains often here, the landscape is very green; making walks pleasantly refreshing even on the hottest days and adding to the city’s vibrant street life.

The event was supported by a grant from the Erasmus+ program as part of the youth worker mobility initiative, and we are especially grateful to the host organization, UNGI Aarhus, and its wonderful coordinator, Ana Hugo.