The Norwegian Government has announced a significant boost in funding to improve school environments across the country. The allocation for skolemiljøteam (school environment teams) will be increased from NOK 15 million to NOK 45 million (approximately EUR 3.9 million) in 2025. The initiative is part of a broader national strategy to combat bullying, reduce marginalisation, and foster better conditions for learning and well-being in schools.
Funding expansion to reach more students and municipalities
The measure, announced by the Kunnskapsdepartementet (Ministry of Education), reflects a growing concern about challenging school environments and the need for closer support in schools facing complex situations.
“Many schools are facing demanding cases that can be difficult to resolve alone. These teams will help ensure that schools with particular challenges receive close follow-up so that students can experience good learning and well-being,” said Ministry of Education Kari Nessa Nordtun (Ap) in a press release.
The tripling of the fund means that municipalities across Norway can now apply for support for up to three consecutive years, giving local administrations the predictability and continuity needed to implement long-term strategies.
Strong demand shows schools’ need for support
In 2024, only 23 municipalities received funding for school environment work, despite 137 applications. Starting this year, municipalities will also be allowed to apply on behalf of regional networks. This is expected to significantly improve access for smaller communities, which often struggle to allocate resources for such initiatives.
“The fact that so many applied shows we’ve responded to a real need in the schools. I look forward to seeing the results of the work that is now being launched, and to learning from those who succeed,” said Nordtun.
The Utdanningsdirektoratet (Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training) has already sent out information to all municipalities about the updated funding scheme.
A coordinated national effort to fight exclusion and bullying
The strengthened funding is part of a wider government push to create safer and more inclusive school environments. In recent years, bullying rates have shown a worrying trend, though recent figures indicate a slight stabilisation.
While most students in Norway report being happy at school, the government has underlined that more work is needed to support vulnerable pupils. “Even though most students thrive and do well in school, we must never stop working to improve the situation for those who struggle. Students who feel safe and supported also learn more,” Nordtun stated.
Complementary measures: from phone bans to new legal tools
In addition to the funding for skolemiljøteam, the government has launched several related measures to reinforce efforts at school level:
- A new national school environment survey is underway, intended to provide better data for municipalities and schools.
- Recommendations to restrict mobile phone use have been issued, with nearly all grunnskoler (primary and lower secondary schools) implementing such policies.
- The Læringsmiljøprosjektet (Learning Environment Project) has been expanded to provide expert support to more schools over time.
- Changes in the opplæringsloven (Education Act) clarify how rules on school environment should be applied, and allow staff to physically intervene when necessary to prevent harm.
- A dedicated action plan has been introduced to address school absenteeism, part of the broader parliamentary initiative «En mer praktisk skole» (A more practical school).
A long-term investment in inclusive education
By increasing support for school environment teams and rolling out complementary initiatives, the Norwegian Government is making a long-term investment in inclusive education. The hope is that this comprehensive approach will help create schools where all students—regardless of background—feel safe, supported, and empowered to learn.
The deadline for municipalities to apply for the 2025 grants is expected to be announced soon, and the Ministry has encouraged both large cities and smaller networks to come forward with proposals.
