skáli

Skóli is the Icelandic word for school, an institution where people receive formal education. In Iceland, grunnskóli, or compulsory basic education, lasts ten years and runs roughly from ages 6 to 16. The curriculum covers core subjects such as Icelandic, mathematics, natural and social sciences, and arts, alongside physical education and foreign languages. After grunnskóli, students may attend framhaldsskóli, the upper secondary level, which provides general and vocational programs and typically lasts three years.

The word skóli derives from the Latin schola via Danish and Old Norse influences, and has cognates in other Scandinavian languages.

Grunnskóli comprises grades 1 through 10. The education system emphasizes broad foundational learning, literacy, numeracy, and essential skills for civic life. Framhaldsskóli offers pathways to higher education or the labor market, with general tracks preparing students for university admission and vocational tracks leading to specific qualifications.

Administration and curriculum: Most schools are publicly funded and run by municipalities under the oversight of the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture. Icelandic is the primary language of instruction, with English taught as a compulsory foreign language. The national core curriculum emphasizes inclusion and equality, and schools provide support for students with special educational needs.

History: Modern Icelandic education was expanded and standardized during the 20th century, with reforms aimed at increasing access, improving teacher training, and promoting inclusive practices.

See also: Háskóli Íslands (University of Iceland); Menntamálaráðuneytið (Ministry of Education, Science and Culture).