Disciplinary measures (disciplinära åtgärder) are the tools the Education Act
gives teachers and principals to maintain order and classroom calm.
Escalation steps
- Verbal warning
- Removal from the classroom (for the remainder of the lesson)
- Detention (up to one hour after the school day ends)
- Relocation to another class or school
- Temporary suspension (upper secondary, up to two weeks)
All measures must be proportionate and documented. Physical intervention is only permitted if
necessary to prevent violence or damage to property.
Frequently asked questions
What disciplinary measures are in the Education Act?
The Education Act mentions, among others, removal from the teaching room, detention, a written warning, temporary reassignment, temporary placement at another school unit, suspension and confiscation of objects.
May disciplinary measures be used as punishment?
No. The purpose must be to change behaviour and create safety and a calm study environment. The measure must be proportionate, and less intrusive measures should normally be tried first.
Can a pupil be suspended from compulsory school?
Yes. A pupil in compulsory school, special school or Sami school can be suspended fully or partly under specific conditions. As a rule the decision may apply for at most one week and at most twice per calendar half-year. Suspension is not possible in pre-school class, adapted compulsory school or after-school care; different rules apply in upper secondary, adapted upper secondary and municipal adult education.
