EDUCATION
AL SYTEM
OF NORWAY
Jomar H. Valdez
STRUCTURE OF THE
NORWEGIAN
EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM
• Kindergarten (Barnehage) (Ages 1-5):
• While not compulsory, most children in Norway
attend kindergarten. The focus is on social
development, play, creativity, and introducing
children to nature and community. It prepares
children for school by developing basic skills.
• Primary School (Barneskole) (Grades
1-7, Ages 6-13):
• Compulsory education begins at the age of 6.
This level covers a broad curriculum, including
Norwegian, mathematics, science, social
studies, arts, and physical education. There is
little formal testing in these early years, and
the focus is on fostering a positive attitude
toward learning.
• Lower Secondary School (Ungdomsskole) (Grades
8-10, Ages 13-16):
• From grade 8, the curriculum becomes more
specialized. Core subjects include mathematics,
Norwegian, English, science, social studies, and
physical education. Students are also introduced
to electives such as a second foreign language or
practical and aesthetic subjects. The goal is to
prepare students for upper secondary education.
• Upper Secondary Education (Videregående Skole)
(Grades 11-13, Ages 16-19):
• After completing lower secondary school,
students choose between general studies
(preparing for higher education) or vocational
education (leading to trade or technical
qualifications). This level is optional but attended
by most students. Upper secondary education is
free, and many programs offer apprenticeships.
HIGHER
UNIVERSITIES AND EDUCATION
COLLEGES:
• Norwegian higher education institutions, including universities, university
colleges, and specialized institutions, offer a range of undergraduate,
graduate, and doctoral programs. Higher education is free for Norwegian
citizens and residents, as well as for most international students from the
EU/EEA.
BOLOGNA PROCESS:
• Norway follows the Bologna Process, which ensures compatibility with
European higher education standards. Degrees are divided into Bachelor's
(3 years), Master's (2 years), and Doctoral (3 years) levels.
CURRICULUM AND
EDUCATIONAL FOCUS
Core Competencies (Fagfornyelsen):
The renewed curriculum emphasizes key
competencies such as critical
thinking,collaboration, creativity, and problem-
solving. Digital literacy and interdisciplinary
learning have become increasingly central.
CURRICULUM AND
EDUCATIONAL FOCUS
Holistic Development:
• In addition to academic subjects, Norwegian
schools emphasize emotional, social, and
physical development, with a strong focus on
mental health and well-being. Outdoor
education and environmental awareness play
a big role in the school experience.
CURRICULUM AND
EDUCATIONAL FOCUS
Formative Assessment and Minimal Testing:
• Instead of frequent formal tests, formative
assessment is emphasized. Teachers give
continuous feedback, and the development of
each student's skills and learning process is
prioritized over rote memorization or high-
stakes testing.
CURRICULUM AND
EDUCATIONAL FOCUS
Inclusive Education:
• Norway has a strong commitment to inclusive
education, ensuring that students with special
needs are supported and integrated into
mainstream schooling. There is an emphasis
on equity in access to education for all
students, regardless of background.
TEACHING METHODS AND TEACHE
QUALIFICATIONS
LEARNER-CENTERED
APPROACH:
• Norwegian schools emphasize collaborative learning, critical thinking,
and student autonomy. Group work, discussions, and project-based
learning are common.
TEACHER TRAINING:
Teachers in Norway are required to have a
Master’s degree in their subject area or in
education. Continuous professional development
is encouraged. Teaching is a highly respected
profession in Norwegian society.
KEY FEATURES AND
VALUES
Integration
Egalitarianis Free
of Nature
m
all people are and Education
fundamentally equal
Sustainabilit
y
CHALLENGES AND REFORMS
ACHIEVEMENT GAP BALANCING TESTING
AND WELL-BEING
While Norway performs well There is ongoing debate about
overall in international the appropriate level of
assessments like PISA, there testing in schools, especially
is concern about an as Norway aims to avoid the
achievement gap between pressures seen in more test-
different socio-economic focused education systems.
groups and regions.
Norway’s educational system is recognized
globally for its focus on inclusivity, student well-
being, and holistic development, preparing
students for both professional success and active
citizenship.
Thank you so much
God Bless
