The City Council has presented its annual report on the state of schools in Bergen. The report shows an increase in bullying statistics and poorer results in the student survey, both in Bergen and across the country.
The status report contains information about, among other things, the number of students and teachers, results from the student survey and national tests, grades, basic school points, and absenteeism. Additionally, the report shows figures on violence and threats, the number of students receiving special education, and the number of students in enhanced departments. The report pertains to the school year 2023/24.
Daniel Hägglund is the city councilor for kindergarten and school in Bergen.
Image: Nina Blågestad
– The status report shows a decline in students’ perception of the school and learning environment, and the figures from the Student Survey indicate a reported increase in bullying numbers both nationally and in Bergen. This is a development that the City Council wishes to reverse. To strengthen the preventive work, the City Council has already implemented measures, including hiring more environmental workers in Bergen’s schools who will actively contribute to creating a safer and better school environment, says Daniel Hägglund, city councilor for kindergarten and school.
National Tests and Grades
The grades in Bergen’s schools are above the national average in 2023/24 in almost all subjects, both in assessments and exam grades. The average results from national tests have remained quite stable in recent years in Bergen. Nevertheless, the statistics show a trend of fewer students at the highest mastery levels in several subjects, both for 5th grade and 8th grade.
Bullying
The bullying statistics have risen significantly since last year both in Bergen and elsewhere in the country. The number of students in Bergen who experience bullying has particularly increased among 10th-grade students, but also among 7th-grade students.
The Student Survey
Results from this year’s student survey show a decline nationwide on most indicators. What 7th-grade students in Bergen’s schools are most satisfied with is ‘support from teachers’. In 10th grade, students rank both ‘support from teachers’ and ‘mastery’ highest.
7th grade scores an average higher than 10th grade on all indicators in the Student Survey.
Basic School Points
The basic school points in Bergen have declined somewhat since 2022/23 but are still above the average for Vestland county and nationally. Basic school points are a cumulative score calculated from all assessment and exam grades.
Basic school points increased significantly in the pandemic years compared to the years before, likely due to a combination of canceled exams and a changed assessment practice among teachers.
In both the Student Survey, national tests, grades, and basic school points, it is essential to consider that there are significant differences between the various schools within the municipality.
The matter was discussed in the City Council on October 31 and will be further addressed in the Committee for Kindergarten, School, and Sports and in the City Council.
Read the documents in the matter
Read the cases from the City Council on October 31
Published: 30.10.2024
Updated: 31.10.2024
Text:
Astri Inga Kamsvåg
Interview between the Editor of Time.news and Daniel Hägglund, City Councilor for Kindergarten and School in Bergen
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, Mr. Hägglund. Thank you for joining us today. The annual report on the state of schools in Bergen has drawn considerable attention, particularly due to the concerning rise in bullying statistics. Can you elaborate on this trend?
Hägglund: Thank you for having me. Yes, the report indeed highlights a troubling increase in bullying, particularly among our 10th and 7th-grade students. This is something we take very seriously. The figures indicate that not only are students suffering, but there’s also a decline in their perception of the school environment. This is a trend that we must and will reverse.
Editor: What specific measures is the City Council implementing to combat this rise in bullying?
Hägglund: We’ve recognized the need for proactive measures. One of the key steps has been the hiring of additional environmental workers in our schools. These professionals are dedicated to fostering a safer and more supportive atmosphere. Their roles include not just addressing bullying as it occurs but also implementing preventive programs to build a more inclusive culture.
Editor: In addition to bullying, the report mentions a decline in overall satisfaction in the student survey. What aspects contributed to this decline?
Hägglund: The student survey results indicate that while support from teachers remains a high point—especially for the 7th graders—a decline in satisfaction is evident across several indicators. Students are voicing concerns about various aspects of their educational experience, which emphasizes the necessity for us to listen, engage with them, and take action to improve their overall experience.
Editor: It’s clear that while results in terms of grades in Bergen have generally exceeded national averages, there is a noticeable trend of fewer students achieving the highest mastery levels. Do you believe there’s a connection between academic performance and the environment in which students learn?
Hägglund: Absolutely. A positive school environment, where students feel safe and supported, directly correlates with academic success. When students are affected by bullying or feel disconnected from their school community, it can detract from their focus and motivation, ultimately impacting their performance. Therefore, addressing the emotional and social wellbeing of students is critical to their academic achievements.
Editor: Some might argue that increased focus on mental health and safety could detract from academic rigor. How do you balance these two areas?
Hägglund: It’s crucial to understand that mental health and academic performance are not mutually exclusive. Investing in a robust support system can actually enhance academic rigor. When students are mentally and emotionally healthy, they’re more engaged, more present, and ultimately more academic-achievement oriented. Our goal is to integrate both aspects harmoniously.
Editor: Looking ahead, what are the key goals for the City Council regarding education in Bergen over the next few years?
Hägglund: Our primary goals are twofold: First, we want to dismantle the trend of rising bullying by creating a supportive environment. Second, we aim to improve the overall satisfaction of students and help them regain confidence in their educational experience. We are also committed to ensuring that more students reach the highest mastery levels in their subjects. With the implementation of data-driven strategies and community involvement, I am optimistic about the future of education in Bergen.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Hägglund, for your insights and commitment to improving education in Bergen. It sounds like there is a thoughtful approach underway to enhance the learning environment for all students.
Hägglund: Thank you for the opportunity to share our plans. Together, with the community and schools, we can make Bergen a model for safe, supportive, and high-achieving educational environments.