Staff in Norway’s after-school programs face rising student numbers and staffing shortages

Staff in Norway’s after-school programs (SFO) are facing significant challenges, experiencing rising student numbers without a corresponding increase in adult supervision. The trade union is concerned about the declining quality of the SFO services and advocates for a staffing standard and dedicated funding. Conversely, the Association of Local Authorities (KS) argues that earmarking funds is not the solution but expresses willingness to collaborate on measures to ensure adequate staffing.

The government has compensated municipalities so that students in grades one, two, and three can access twelve hours of free SFO per week. Although student enrollment in Kongsberg has surged following the expanded free offering, the staffing levels have not adjusted accordingly.

Annette Rasmussen, an SFO leader in Kongsberg, voiced her concern about the staffing situation, noting they have two fewer adults for 80 children, leaving staff feeling overextended, sometimes with only three adults available. Ingrid Wergeland from the trade union highlights national concerns regarding SFO staff struggling to provide quality care, stressing the disparity between the increase of over 21,000 children since 2021 and only about 1,800 additional staff.

While the government will expand the free SFO program further in the coming years, municipalities criticize the financial implications, reflecting a concerning impact on service delivery. Local leaders stress the need for adequate funding and staffing norms akin to those for kindergartens and schools, asserting that without these changes, vulnerable students may face even greater challenges in the future.