Inga defends return to numerical grades in Icelandic schools

Inga Sæland, Iceland’s minister of education and children’s affairs, says her plans to reintroduce numerical grades in primary schools have always been clear, mbl.is reports.

“There has been a great deal of dialogue with teachers throughout the summer, and this is not surprising to them. I have always been clear about this policy,” Inga told mbl.is.

The Ministry of Education and Children announced several days ago that schools would return to numerical grades instead of letter grades, with the aim of making assessment clearer and more consistent.

Magnús Þór Jónsson, president of the Icelandic Teachers’ Association, and Mjöll Matthíasdóttir, chair of the Association of Primary School Teachers, have criticised the plans. They say teachers were not consulted.

The changes will take effect for students completing 10th grade next spring, meaning the next graduating class will receive numerical grades. Changes affecting grades in the fourth to seventh years will not be introduced until 2028.

“The reason 10th-grade students will receive numerical grades at graduation next spring is extremely clear and simple. We simply do not intend to discriminate against any more 10th-grade students based on which school they graduate from or where they live,” Inga said.

Inga said most teachers supported the changes, describing the critics as “a small critical group”.

Asked whether teachers had enough time to respond to the change, Inga said her ministry would provide extensive support.

“Nothing will be spared in my ministry to support this change. It will be very professional, and all support will be available. There is absolutely nothing lacking,” she said.