Education in Iceland
| Minister of Education, Science and Culture |
Kristján Þór Júlíusson |
|---|---|
| Budget | ISK 28.5 billion |
| Primary languages | Icelandic |
| System type | National |
| Current system | 2007 |
| Total | 99% |
| Male | 99% |
| Female | 99% |
| Total | Not available |
| Primary | 100% (graduating) |
| Secondary | 97% |
| Post secondary | Not available |
| Secondary diploma | 57% |
| Post-secondary diploma | Not available |
The system of education in Iceland is divided in four levels: playschool, compulsory, upper secondary and higher, and is similar to that of other Nordic countries. Education is mandatory for children aged 6–16. Most institutions are funded by the state; there are very few private schools in the country. Iceland is a country with gymnasia.
The first national education law was the 1907 education law, and the first national curriculum was published in 1926. Although the curriculum was periodically revised, the overall education system was not significantly modernized until the Compulsory Education Act of 1974, which mandated special education services for all students with disabilities.
According to the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture:
The Ministry of Education, Science and Culture has the jurisdiction of educational responsibility. Traditionally, education in Iceland has been run in the public sector; there is a small, although growing, number of private education institutions in the country. Over the years, the educational system has been decentralised, and responsibility for primary and lower secondary schools lies with the local authorities. The state runs upper secondary schools and higher education institutions.
The Ministry issues the National Curriculum Guidelines. The National Centre for Educational Materials publishes educational materials for education institutions, and issues them free of charge. The Educational Testing Institute is the country’s sole examination board; responsible for issuing and grading national assessments.
...
Wikipedia