Founded: 1995 Student Profile: 200 students aged 16–19
Location: Flekke, Norway

Red Cross Nordic UWC was opened in 1995 on the beautiful shores of Flekke Fjord in mountainous Western Norway. The College became a reality through the cooperative efforts and inspiration of many organisations, including the Norway UWC National Committee, the Norwegian Red Cross and the host municipality of Fjaler.

 
The government of Norway largely funds the College, supported by the other Nordic countries and by private sponsors. The College is situated alongside the Red Cross Haugland Rehabilitation Centre and works closely and shares facilities with this centre.

The eight Nordic countries and territories support Red Cross Nordic UWC: Denmark, the Faeroe Islands, Finland, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Åland. The support of these governments, together with generous contributions from individuals and organisations, helps to fund the College's scholarship programme.

"Students at Red Cross Nordic UWC come from parts of the world where peace is in short supply and where peace is in good supply. We therefore recognise the significance of peace. Together we are strong; we can make a difference; we can light the world; we can create one globe which rejects no-one. We can make the world a better and more liveable place, with a better and brighter tomorrow."
Adugna Tolossa and Molla Reda, Ethiopia (RCN 98-00)

The traditions of both the Nordic countries and of the Red Cross are reflected in the emphasis placed on humanitarian and environmental concerns. Cooperation with the Red Cross, for example, opens a variety of avenues for service opportunities in such areas as First Aid and Lifesaving and in the fields of youth training, rescue work and humanitarian action. The service and activity programme at the College gives students opportunities to respond to needs, to learn organisational skills and to work with a great variety of people. Almost all students work with the Leirskule, a residential camp school for Norwegian school children held on campus. The students act as leaders and instructors in almost every activity although the school is directed and administered by professional staff.

Environmental matters are considered within the academic curriculum, as well as through the Global Concerns and Challenge programmes. The campus has been developed to be as environmentally friendly as possible and students are involved with environmental projects with local groups and authorities.

Active involvement in this extraordinarily varied natural setting emphasises the importance of environmental awareness. All non-Scandinavian speakers follow a Norwegian language course and an innovative Nordic Studies programme. This is designed to develop a better appreciation of the host region and to ease integration with the local community. Other educational initiatives include Project Based Learning which, twice a year, devotes a week of school time for groups of staff and students to plan, implement and report on a project of their choice.

Student democracy plays a significant role in the daily operation of the College and is implemented through the Student Council. Staff and students elect members to represent them on the Governing Body and Council of the College.

The campus boasts a spectacular dining area overlooking the fjord, well-equipped science laboratories, a music room, art and ceramics studios, computer facilities, a library and a waterfront recreation centre.

Also available are the acquatic centre and pool, fully-equipped fitness training facility and small gymnasium at the neighbouring Red Cross Rehabilitation Centre.