Language Instruction for Students with a First Language Other Than Norwegian

Enhanced Norwegian instruction means that Norwegian is taught as a second language, rather than as a native language. Students will receive additional Norwegian instruction until they have acquired sufficient proficiency to follow the regular curriculum. If necessary, they may also receive instruction in their mother tongue or bilingual instruction in certain subjects.

Parents must apply to the school for their child to receive special language instruction. For students receiving this instruction, the county authority will regularly assess whether they are ready to transition to regular education.

The municipality may provide mother tongue instruction at a different school from where the student is enrolled, and instruction may take place in designated introductory classes. Before a student is placed in an introductory class, they must be consulted and must consent to receiving education in this setting.

Students in primary and lower secondary school.

This is a legally mandated service. See:
Opplæringslova § 3-6 og § 3-7 and opplæringsforskrifta § 1-5.

Opplæringslova
Opplæringsforskrifta
Forvaltningsloven

The school will conduct an academic assessment of the student’s need for enhanced Norwegian instruction and, if applicable, mother tongue instruction or bilingual subject instruction. Based on this assessment, the school will issue an official decision.

Before making a decision, the school will notify you that your case is being processed and provide you with an opportunity to present your views. The school must gather all necessary information to make an informed decision, and you have the right to access relevant documents. The decision will include the school's reasoning, the basis for the decision, and the individuals involved in the process. The decision will be sent to you in writing.

The school must process the case as soon as possible. If the case cannot be resolved within one month, you must receive written notification explaining the delay and an estimated time for the decision.

If you are dissatisfied with the decision, you may appeal within three weeks of receiving it. Explain what you are dissatisfied with and why you believe the decision should be changed. If you need guidance, you can contact the municipality. If the municipality upholds its decision, the case will be forwarded to the County Governor, who will determine whether the appeal should be granted.