Introduction to Sweden Education System

Study Notes

Occupies the eastern part of the Scandinavian Peninsula, making it the fourth largest country in Europe.
Has a population of over 9 million people, with Stockholm as its capital city.
Governed by a Constitutional Monarchy, a form of democratic government in which a monarch acts as a non-political head of state within the boundaries of a constitution.
Historical background dates back to the 11th century when King Olaf Skottknenung converted to Christianity.
Sweden was united with Denmark and Norway in the 1400s, but broke away in 1523 under the influence of Martin Luther.

In 1911, Sweden established its welfare legislation, which began with the introduction of old-age pensions.
The country maintained its neutrality in both World War I and World War II, allowing it to establish systems of public health, housing, and job security.
The socialist rule ended in 1976, but returned in 1982 with Olaf Palme, and again in 1991 when Sweden joined the European Union.

Introduced a 4-year primary school called Folkskola (people's schools) in 1842.
Expanded education to make it mandatory for 7 years in the 1930s, 8 years in 1950, and 9 years in 1972.
Students with excellent grades could attend secondary schools (Högere Allmänna Läroverket) after 3 years of primary school.
Divided into lower levels (Realskola, 6-year school) and upper levels (Gymnasium, 4-year school) in 1905.
Introduced Enhetsskola (unified school) in 1949, which became Forsöksskola in 1958, and then Grundskola (9-year primary school) in 1962.
Upper secondary school (Gymnasieskola) provides education for ages 16-19, leading to university preparatory/vocational education.
Vocational secondary school provides a basic qualification in 3 years.

1992: Independent primary and secondary schools received public funding (i.e., free schools).
2007: Higher education divided into 3 levels: Grundnivå (basic level), Avancerad Nivå (advanced level), and Forskarnivå (doctoral level).
2008: 900 free schools were available.
2010: Abandoned free schools, and international students were charged fees.

2 egalitarian goals: equality of outcomes and equality of opportunity.
Pressure on public budgets to maintain high levels of educational provisions and standards.
Increasing class differences in education.
Globalization poses a challenge to ensure equity in education.