Imagine a royal princess trading in her palace life for a boarding school with a schedule that defies all expectations. Denmark’s Princess Josephine, the 14-year-old daughter of King Frederik and Queen Mary, has done just that—and her daily routine at Spir Efterskole is anything but ordinary. But here’s where it gets intriguing: this prestigious institution has completely reimagined the school day to prioritize what teens need most—sleep. And this is the part most people miss: the school doesn’t start until 10:20 am, with students waking up at 8:45 am. Yes, you read that right.
Princess Josephine, the twin sister of Prince Vincent, made headlines last August when she chose Spir Efterskole for her upper secondary education, leaving behind Kildegaard Privatskole in Hellerup, where she’d spent the past two years. Her new school’s approach is rooted in science: Spir Efterskole’s website explains that later start times are designed to align with teenagers’ natural sleep patterns, promoting better learning and overall well-being. It’s a bold move that challenges traditional schooling norms—and one that’s sure to spark debate. Is this the future of education, or a luxury only a few can afford?
A Day in the Life of Princess Josephine
After her 8:45 am wake-up call, Josephine and her classmates kick off the day with a mix of practicality and self-care: cleaning their rooms, engaging in morning exercise, and enjoying a nutritious breakfast. By 10:00 am, they’re ready for assembly, followed by lessons at 10:20 am. In the evening, it’s all about winding down: phones are handed in by 10:15 pm, students head to their rooms by 10:30 pm, and lights-out is at 11:30 pm. This structured routine ensures students get the restorative sleep their developing brains crave—a detail often overlooked in conventional schools.
Nutrition Fit for Royalty
But Spir Efterskole doesn’t stop at sleep. The school’s commitment to health extends to its menu, which is as impressive as its schedule. Students enjoy a balanced diet rich in wholemeal bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Fish is served several times a week, while meat consumption is limited to around 450 grams weekly, complemented by vegetarian meals. The school also adopts a ‘low-fat’ philosophy, using low-fat dairy, cheese, and meats, with minimal butter and margarine. Most meals are prepared in-house, ensuring freshness and quality. Is this the gold standard for school nutrition, or an unattainable ideal for most institutions?
Beyond the Classroom: Luxury Meets Adventure
What truly sets Spir Efterskole apart is its location by the sea, offering students access to a range of water sports. Princess Josephine can dive into activities like sailing, diving, kayaking, windsurfing, and even wakeboarding—a far cry from the typical school experience. This blend of academic rigor, health-focused living, and outdoor adventure makes Spir Efterskole a standout choice for the young royal.
The Bigger Question
Princess Josephine’s daily routine at Spir Efterskole raises important questions about modern education. Should schools prioritize sleep and holistic well-being over early start times and packed schedules? And if so, why aren’t more institutions following suit? This controversial approach challenges us to rethink what’s best for students—especially teenagers. Do you think later start times and healthier lifestyles should become the norm, or are they a privilege reserved for the elite? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation about the future of education.
