English summary
Molkoms folkhögskola is one of 150 folk high schools in Sweden (presently; 2010). Around 200 people in all ages, from different backgrounds, study a variety of (mostly) one-year courses and programmes. The profiles are within health maintenance and media; programmes in journalism, video and drama with emphasis on film acting offer a vocational education as well as a platform for higher studies.
Introduction 
(This is a general introduction to Folkbildning and the Folk High School, from the website of The Swedish National Council of Adult Education (Folkbildningsrådet). Visit their site where you will also find answers to the most common questions about Folk High Schools and Folkbildning.
Folkbildning´s philosophy, which is practiced in the folk high schools, presumes that all citizens are free and independent individuals, with the right to participate in all aspects of a democratic society. The activities should provide a comprehensive approach, stimulate curiosity and critical thinking; as well as be a part of the crucial process of lifelong learning. Folkbildning creates the conditions necessary for people to freely pursue knowledge and contributes towards giving them the opportunity to change their lives. Folkbildning in Sweden is organised through Study Associations (studieförbund) and folk high schools (folkhögskola).
History of folkbildning
The history of folkbildning stretches back to the turn of the last century. Political and social revolutions in Europe made people realise that they could truly influence their own future. But if the people were going to have increased power, they would also have to obtain knowledge and education. There were elementary schools of course, but there was also much dissatisfaction regarding the educational activities they offered ordinary people. The growing popular movements no longer accepted that the upper classes should make all decisions concerning cultural life or what was taught in schools.
The first folk high schools in Sweden were established in 1868 and today there are 150 schools in the country. Despite being separate, Folk High Schools are now a popular, important and established part of the Swedish education system. 107 of the schools are run by various popular movements, organisations and associations (NGO´s), whilst the remaining 43 are run by county councils or regions.
How do I apply?
Anyone wanting to take part in a course should write to that specific Folk High School and ask for information about courses, board and lodging, fees etc. Each school has their own application form. All tuition is free of charge at the Folk High Schools. You pay for literature, material, food and drink. And if it is a boarding school - board and lodging costs about 4 000 SEK per month. Students (Swedish students and non-Swedish nationals who have been living in Sweden for some years) can apply for a grant from the government to cover part of the costs.
Can I live at the folk high school?
Yes, many of the folk high schools (like Molkoms folkhögskola) are boarding schools and can offer rooms to rent. The boarding element is an important part in many of the folk high school. Studying and living at school creates a sense of community, gives possibilities of close companionship and the chance to exchange views during free time. But some of the Folk High Schools are just day shools, especially in the big cities, and can not offer any boarding. Many schools offer cultural activities (e.g. concerts, theatre, films) and outdoors pursuits (e.g. team sports and athletics) alongside the studies (also like Molkoms folkhögskola).
Here are some more specific details about our school, Molkoms folkhögskola. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to call us (+553 100 04) or send us an e-mail (folkhogskola@molkom.nu);
Molkoms folkhögskola is one of 150 folk high schools in Sweden. Around 200 people in all ages, from different backgrounds, study a variety of (mostly) one-year courses and programmes. The profiles are within health maintenance and media; programmes in journalism, film and acting offer a vocational education as well as a platform for higher studies.
LIBRARY AND MAGAZINES
You have access to the school library during all hours. In the same building as the dining-hall there is a room with couches, a pool table, a television set and also daily magazines (in Swedish).
POST BOX
For outgoing mail, use the box outside the school office.
COMPUTERS
There are computers with Internet connections placed in the library (where you also have access to a printer). Classrooms with computers are only used for lessons, with a teacher present. In order to use the school´s computers you need to be a registered user and be aware of the school´s policy regarding IT.
ANIMALS
No animals are allowed in the school buildings (with concern to allergic people).
DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
A folk high school is in many ways different from traditional schools. Here you will find a mix of people from different backgrounds and with all sorts of experiences. This is the charm and also strength of a folk high school. Because of this we value individual responsibility and respect for other people, so that everyone will enjoy their stay at our school. We therefore aim to create a drug-free environment.
SCHOOL OFFICE
The school office in the main building will be open Monday thru Friday between 8 am and 4 pm (closed during lunch 12 pm – 1 pm). We also help if you need to send a fax (for a small charge).
FAX
The fax number to Molkoms folkhögskola is 0553 – 104 96.
BARBECUE
There is a place for barbecues outside. We can help you with firewood and barbecue fluid, but what you put on the grill is up to you.
HANDICAP
The school has been adjusted to suit disabled persons, but it is important that you inform us about your special needs before arrival.
CONSIDERATION
Is inportant to show one another in order to get along together. Please respect that your neighbors might want to go to sleep later than you do and try to keep noises down.
FOOD
Molkoms Folkhögskola has a reputable kitchen that will serve you good and varied food during your stay. All meals (as well as coffee during the day as well as in the evening) are served in the main dining-hall. In case you have some special needs concerning food we trust you have informed us about this before your arrival.
MOLKOM
Molkom is a small community (approx 2000 inhabitants) within the municipality of Karlstad, situated close to the two lakes Borssjön and Molkomssjön. There are plenty of possibilities to enjoy walks in the nature and the distance to the nearest public bath (outdoors) is approximately one kilometer. If you like to fish there are many lakes in the vicinity (but you will need a fishing license). The church of Nyed is situated within walking distance from the school, as well as a local "hembygdsgård" which is a cross between an open-air museum and meeting-hall.
Molkom is situated along road number 63 between Karlstad and Filipstad. The distance to Karlstad is approximately 3 Swedish miles. During workdays there are several bus connections to and from Karlstad.
THE ROOMS
Most of our rooms are single rooms (some can be adjusted to double rooms). Very few rooms have shower and toilet, usually these facilities are in the main hall outside your room. Most buildings have a room for gatherings, where you can also watch television. A small kitchen with a stove, refrigerator, freezer and microwave oven is available. You also have access to a laundry room (with dryers).
The linen and towels are placed in your room before your arrival. They are only changed when courses last longer than one week.
The key to your room will be provided as you register and remain in your care during your whole visit. The same key is also used for the front door of your building. During your stay you will need a four-digit code (which will be presented to you) in order to get access to the library and dining-hall during evening hours.
SMOKING
The entire school is a non-smoking area. The only exceptions are two pavilions close to the main buildings.
TELEPHONE
The telehone number to the school (office) is 0553 – 100 04.
Each dormitory also has a telephone, but only for in-coming calls.
The country code for Sweden is 0046.
ANYTHING ELSE
If you have any questions – please ask – and we will try to find an answer!
We hope that your stay at Molkoms Folkhögskola will be pleasant!
