The Education Act (skollagen, 2010:800) is the law that governs all education in Sweden — from preschool and compulsory school to upper-secondary school and adult education. The act came into force in 2011 and replaced the previous Education Act from 1985.
Content
The Education Act establishes fundamental principles such as every child's right to education, compulsory schooling, free school choice, requirements for certified teachers, student health services, and special support. The act also regulates how municipalities, independent schools, and the state are to collaborate.
Significance
The Education Act is the legal foundation of the entire school system. Skolinspektionen's inspections are based on the act, and most education policy reforms require amendments to the law.