skolehelsesøster

Skolehelsesøster is a nurse employed by the municipality to deliver the school health service within primary and lower secondary education. The role is part of the public health system and focuses on preventive health care, health promotion, and early support for students’ health and well-being. School nurses work across schools, visit classrooms, and meet students individually, often coordinating with parents and school staff.

Core duties include health checks and growth monitoring, vaccination coordination, and screening of vision and hearing. They provide confidential health counseling to students and parents on topics such as nutrition, physical activity, sleep, mental health, puberty, sexuality, and substance use. They identify and refer students with health or development concerns to appropriate services, such as the school physician, a general practitioner, psychologist, or social services. They participate in school-based immunization programs and health education initiatives, and may organize health-promoting activities and information sessions for staff and families.

Skolehelsesøstre operate with respect for confidentiality and informed consent, following national guidelines. Many services are offered within the public health system and are provided free of charge. They may conduct home visits or outreach for students with limited school attendance or special health needs, and collaborate closely with teachers, school counselors, and other health professionals in the Child and Adolescent Health Service (barne- og ungdomshelsetjenesten).

Education and qualifications typically require a registered nursing degree with further training in public health nursing; continuing education is common. The position and responsibilities can vary by municipality but share the aim of supporting children’s health, safety, and equal educational opportunities.