We represent the following:
Kindergartens (pre-schools) are fundamental to providing everyone with equal opportunities while growing up. Union of Education Norway believes that kindergartens (pre-schools) should provide a public educational service to all children and be responsible for part of the education offered by the state. Expertise, knowledge, time and space are important prerequisites for creating a good kindergarten (pre-school).
Primary schools (including lower secondary education) should provide all pupils with good opportunities for development through teaching which has been adapted to suit the needs and requirements of individuals. Primary schools should be free, without parents having to pay. The content and organisation of such schools must be subject to continuous development in order to meet current and future challenges. Union of Education Norway also believes that the resources invested in primary schools must be subject to national standards.
Secondary education (upper secondary education) should provide pupils with practical and theoretical knowledge and prepare them for life at work and in the community. Teachers are required to have a good professional and pedagogic level of education - and should also have the latitude to act. Union of Education Norway believes that it is important to preserve and continue to develop the distinctive features of both the humanities and vocational subjects.
Higher education institutions should engage in research and teaching and address society's need for new knowledge and a highly qualified workforce. The content and quality of the different teacher training courses offered are important tools for ensuring the provision of good, equal opportunities at kindergartens (pre-schools) and schools. Training and student related work is important, and needs to have a higher status. Higher education needs budgetary frameworks in order to ensure the provision of high quality education.
Other areas of education
Union of Education Norway is involved in the whole education process throughout the education system. This includes work related to pedagogical and psychological services, adult education, colleges of further education, education offices and ministries.
Leadership
Good leadership is important for teaching and development at all educational institutions. Organisation, making arrangements and being responsible for good teaching processes are demanding and comprehensive leadership tasks. Union of Education Norway believes therefore that all kindergartens (pre-schools) and schools need to have a leader with the relevant pedagogical training and practice. We also believe that it is an advantage for kindergartens (pre-schools) and schools to have leaders and teaching personnel who are members of the same union.
A