The government's plan is to make preschool class the new first grade in elementary school. The ten-year elementary school is expected to take effect in 2028, according to Ekot's information.
The change can mean a positive reinforcement of children's early reading and writing skills. But I want to emphasize that generous transition rules are needed over a long period, says Anna Olskog.
She is referring to the large group of preschool teachers who currently work in preschool class and who will likely need to supplement their education in reading and writing skills and basic math skills. She is also referring to the validation of the competence that preschool teachers already possess.
Preschool teachers possess their sovereign competence and are needed in the school system. We cannot end up in a situation where their competence and qualifications are denied. It cannot happen that preschool teachers leave the profession, says Anna Olskog.
The government's plan is thus to have the ten-year elementary school in place by 2028 – in four years.
My question is whether it can be done and therefore I urge caution. You must have generous transition rules, otherwise it is doomed to fail, says Anna Olskog.
Anna Lena Wallström/TT
Facts: Preschool class and elementary school
TT
Already today, six-year-olds have compulsory education since preschool class is mandatory.
Preschool class is, however, a separate school form between preschool and elementary school.
To be qualified to teach in preschool class, either a preschool teacher's degree or a basic teacher's degree with a focus on preschool class and elementary school grades 1-3 is required.
Nearly half of those who teach in preschool class are preschool teachers.
To be qualified to teach in the current grades 1-3, a basic teacher's degree is required.
A proposal for a ten-year elementary school is expected in November.
Sources: The National Agency for Education and the Government Offices
