The Education Act (Skollagen)

The law that governs all education in Sweden, from preschool to adult education. Enacted in 2010.

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.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Education Act (skollagen)?

The Education Act (2010:800) is the main law for the Swedish school system. It regulates, among other things, the operator's (huvudman) responsibilities, pupils' rights, compulsory schooling, special support, pupil health, safety and inspection.

Does the Education Act apply to both municipal and independent schools?

Yes. The Education Act applies to the whole school system and covers both municipal and independent operators, although some rules can differ between school forms and operator types.

What happens if a school breaks the Education Act?

The Schools Inspectorate (Skolinspektionen) can exercise oversight and decide on injunctions, fines, or in serious cases revoke an independent school's approval. Individual pupils may also have their rights examined in certain matters.

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Related terms

School types in Sweden (Skolformer)Compulsory school, upper secondary, preschool class, after-school centre and other school types — what they mean.Compulsory schooling (Skolplikt)All children residing in Sweden are subject to compulsory schooling from preschool class through year 9, typically ages 6–16.School inspection (Tillsyn)Skolinspektionen's review of whether schools comply with laws and regulations. Can lead to injunctions or closure.Curriculum (Läroplan)The governing document that describes the school's mission, goals, and content. Current curricula are Lgr22 and Lgy11.Systematic quality assurance (Systematiskt kvalitetsarbete)The school's legally mandated process of planning, monitoring, and developing its operations based on results and analysis.Compulsory schooling vs compulsory education (Läroplikt vs skolplikt)In Sweden, there is compulsory schooling (obligation to attend school), not compulsory education (obligation to achieve a certain level of learning).Disciplinary measures (Disciplinära åtgärder)Measures that teachers and principals can take to maintain order, such as removal from class or relocation.The Discrimination Act (Diskrimineringslagen)Law prohibiting discrimination in schools on grounds of gender, gender identity, ethnicity, and more.Municipalisation (Kommunaliseringen)The 1991 reform that transferred responsibility for schools from the state to the municipalities. One of the most debated education reforms.Guaranteed teaching time (Garanterad undervisningstid)The minimum teaching time every pupil is entitled to according to the subject timetable. Often discussed in relation to cancelled lessons.The principle of public access (Offentlighetsprincipen)The principle that documents in municipal schools are public. Does not fully apply to independent schools.School library (Skolbibliotek)All students in compulsory and upper secondary school must have access to a school library. Regulated by the Education Act.The school system (Skolväsendet)Collective term for all publicly funded education in Sweden — from preschool to adult education.Student influence and school democracy (Elevinflytande)Students' right to influence their education and school environment. Regulated by the Education Act and curriculum.Faith-based schools (Konfessionella skolor)Independent schools with a religious orientation. Teaching must be non-confessional, but the profile may shape other school activities.Education policy (Skolpolitik)The political governance of education — at national level through parliament and at local level through the municipal council.Goal- and result-based governance (Mål- och resultatstyrning)The governance model where the state sets goals and schools decide how to achieve them. Results are monitored and evaluated.School Appeals Board (Skolväsendets överklagandenämnd)The board that reviews appeals of decisions including action programmes, school placements, and suspensions.Student council (Elevråd)The students' formal body for influence at school. Elected by students and represents them on issues of school environment and activities.

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