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The Norwegian School in London

United Kingdom, London

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English, Norwegian
Fees £2,200 - 19,000
Ages 6 - 16 years
Pupil numbers 53
Type Co-educational
Opened 1982
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Bespoke Curriculum
Taught languages English, French, Spanish, German, Norwegian
Typical class size 15
Strengths Sport, Languages, Performing Arts
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language
Stages Primary School, Secondary School
Introduction

The Norwegian School in London is a Norwegian international school in Wimbledon for pupils aged 6–16, offering the LK-20 curriculum in full while using London as a classroom. The campus is a Victorian villa at 28 Arterberry Road, SW20 8AH, with a gym and a football pitch. The school provides Norwegian primary and secondary education (Years 1–10) and English is taught by English-speaking and Norwegian teachers. Core subjects include Norwegian, English, a third language (German/French/Spanish), Maths, Science, Social Studies, KRLE, Music, Art & Craft, Home Economics and Physical Education, plus career guidance and optional subjects in later years. Learning is largely topic-based and cross-curricular in line with fagfornyelsen, and reading development is supported by Oxford Reading Tree. School uses field trips to theatres and museums to enrich understanding and engages with partners for sport and cultural activities. Founded 1982, it is a registered charity governed by a Board of Governors.

28 Arterberry Rd, London SW20 8AH, United Kingdom

The Essentials

The Norwegian School in London has 53 pupils, typical class sizes of 15, instruction in English, Norwegian.

Location

The Norwegian School in London is in Wimbledon, London. Address: 28 Arterberry Road, Wimbledon SW20 8AH, United Kingdom. The school is a short walk from Wimbledon Station, which has Tube and National Rail links, and Raynes Park Station. The surrounding area is residential Wimbledon.

Stages

Primary School Y1-4; Primary School Y5-7; Secondary School Y8-10.

Type

Norwegian international school following the Norwegian LK-20 curriculum.

Pupil Nationality Mix

Pupils come from Norway, the rest of Scandinavia, the UK and beyond.

Additional learning support

Norwegian as a second language support with individualized education plans; pupils with insufficient Norwegian receive extra support and follow their own Norwegian IEP until they can follow ordinary Norwegian teaching; English language tuition is maintained to a high standard.

Country affiliation

Norway.
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement

Pupils do not wear school uniforms.

Food Options

SFO provides after-school care for pupils in years 1–4; fruit is served after school and snacks include fruit and crispbread daily.

Governance and Ownership

The school is governed by a Board of Governors; the board is composed of volunteers who oversee the school's long-term direction, financial management, and educational standards. The proprietor is The Norwegian School in London Limited.
Fees

Annual tuition at The Norwegian School in London ranges from GBP 2,200 to GBP 19,000 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- A deposit of GBP 250 is required per place on acceptance of an offer; this deposit is paid as part of the admission process.

Tuition fees (annual amounts, 2025–2026 academic year)

- Category A (applicants not eligible for Norwegian State Grants): GBP 19,000 + VAT per child per year.
- Category B (applicants eligible for Norwegian State Grants and whose parents are funded by employers): GBP 8,000 + VAT per child per year.
- Category C1 (applicants eligible for Norwegian State Grants where parents do not receive employer contribution — first child): GBP 3,200 + VAT per child per year.
- Category C2 (eligible for Norwegian State Grants, second child): GBP 2,700 + VAT per child per year.
- Category C3 (eligible for Norwegian State Grants, additional child): GBP 2,200 + VAT per child per year.

Per-term examples (calculations based on published annual fees)

- The school's published fee schedule gives annual fees by applicant category and does not publish a single standard termly figure for every family. The published admissions rules do state that a short-term place requires payment equal to "one term (6 months)," indicating the school may treat a short-term place as a half-year charge in admissions cases.

- Example term splits (calculated estimates):
- If an annual fee is divided across three standard terms:
- Category A ≈ GBP 6,333.33 + VAT per term; Category B ≈ GBP 2,666.67 + VAT per term; C1 ≈ GBP 1,066.67 + VAT; C2 ≈ GBP 900.00 + VAT; C3 ≈ GBP 733.33 + VAT. (These are the annual fees divided by 3; used only as an illustrative split.)
- If the school applies a two-term (6-month) definition for the short-stay term referenced in admissions:
- Category A = GBP 9,500 + VAT per 6-month term; Category B = GBP 4,000 + VAT; C1 = GBP 1,600 + VAT; C2 = GBP 1,350 + VAT; C3 = GBP 1,100 + VAT. (These are the annual fees divided by 2; shown because the admissions policy specifically references a "one term (6 months)" charge for short stays.)

Billing schedule and payment terms

- A place must be taken up no later than four weeks after it is offered. Payment of school fees for the entire period is required from the school start date allocated. Short-term applications (minimum three months) must pay an amount equal to one term (defined in the admissions policy as 6 months) regardless of whether the stay is shorter. A contract for a school place must be signed and the GBP 250 deposit paid to reserve the place.

- The published fee schedule lists amounts as "+ VAT," which means VAT is added on top of the stated annual sums where applicable.

Boarding fees

- Boarding is not applicable. The Norwegian School in London is an independent day school; pupils live in various parts of London and there is no published boarding provision or boarding fee.

Other costs and additional charges

- Special Educational Needs: For applicants who are not eligible for Norwegian State Grants, any costs related to Special Educational Needs will be charged additionally at the Head Teacher's discretion.

- The published school fee schedule does not list fixed, itemised charges for uniform, lunches, school trips, music tuition or after-school clubs as part of the headline annual fees document. Where additional or optional activities incur charges, those items are not shown as fixed line items in the published annual-fees schedule.

Refund information

- The published admissions and fees documentation requires payment of the deposit and payment for the period from the allocated start date but does not publish a separate, detailed refund policy or explicit rules for returning the GBP 250 deposit in the publicly available fee and admission policy documents. The published materials do not specify termly refund calculations or refund deadlines.

Fee payment options

- The published fee and admissions documents do not list specific accepted payment methods (for example: credit card, bank transfer, direct debit) in the fee schedule or admissions policy. The school's published policies and fee schedule show amounts, deposit requirements and payment timing rules but do not include bank or card instructions in the fee policy document.

Brief summary of what is published vs what is not published

- Published and explicit: annual tuition amounts by applicant category (Category A, B, C1, C2, C3) and that VAT is added; a GBP 250 deposit per place; requirement to pay for the allocated period from the start date; short-stay applicants must pay an amount equal to one term (stated as 6 months).

- Not published in the school's fee and admissions documents: a single, universal termly invoice amount or per-year-group (per school year / per year group) fixed fees; a full billing calendar or standard termly invoice dates; itemised routine charges for uniform, lunches, trips, music or after-school clubs; detailed refund terms and the school's accepted payment methods. These items are not set out in the published fee schedule or admissions policy.
Academics

The Norwegian School in London teaches Bespoke Curriculum for students aged 6 to 16.

Curriculum

The Norwegian School in London follows the Norwegian national curriculum LK-20 in full. It blends the Norwegian curriculum with London as an extended classroom to reflect British values alongside Norwegian educational priorities. Years 1–2 and 3–4 have a total of 23 hours per week of teaching, while Years 5–7 and Years 8–10 have 28.5 hours per week, with subject offerings including Norwegian, English, a third language (German/French/Spanish), Maths, Science, Social Studies, KRLE, Music, Art & Craft, Home Economics and Physical Education; there is career guidance and optional subjects in later years. English is taught with both a native English-speaking teacher and a Norwegian teacher, and the curriculum is largely topic-based and cross-curricular in line with fagfornyelsen. The school uses London as a classroom, with trips to museums, theatres and other cultural sites; reading development is supported by The Oxford Reading Tree and Cambridge ESOL exams (KET, PET and FCE) for Years 5–7.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)

The Norwegian School in London promotes positive mental health and wellbeing for the whole school community. Mental health is recognised as important to learning, and the school aims to develop protective factors that support students. All children should feel valued and safe, have a sense of belonging, and be able to speak openly to trusted adults without stigma. Bullying is not tolerated. The curriculum emphasises mental wellbeing and includes RSHE lessons, regular class meetings focused on monthly values, and a cross-curricular approach to health and resilience. The school also uses activities such as student councils, assemblies, and educational trips to support social development, with staff trained to recognise and respond to mental health issues and to refer to external services when needed.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)

The school has its own SENCO and collaborates with PPT Utland, the educational/psychological service for Norwegian schools abroad, and the County Governor. PPT Utland can assess pupils for Individually Tailored Instruction (ITO), and the Governor makes decisions based on PPT's recommendations. PPT Utland visits the school one to two times per year, with close collaboration outside visits. Pupils who are referred to PPT Utland, or who receive ITO, must have a Norwegian passport. We also collaborate with local authorities if PPT Utland does not cover specific needs.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

The school uses Norwegian as the language of instruction and follows the Norwegian curriculum. If a pupil starts with insufficient Norwegian to follow teaching, the school will assess language skills and, in cooperation with the family, consider a referral to PPT Utland. Pupils with insufficient Norwegian or Norwegian as a second language may receive special education and follow an Individual Learning Plan until they can follow regular instruction. Pupils learn Norwegian through immersion, by being immersed in language in all contexts. Close cooperation with families is essential to support language development at home.

Mental Wellbeing

The school recognises that mental health and wellbeing are important and aims to promote positive mental health for all pupils. It seeks to identify and support children with mental health needs and to train staff to recognise signs and respond appropriately. Staff training in mental health is part of regular safeguarding preparation, and concerns are logged and monitored when raised. External services such as CAHMS and the Children and Families Hub are engaged for further advice and support when needed. A values-based, whole‑school approach, RSHE lessons, regular class meetings, and a range of activities and trips contribute to resilience and wellbeing.

Safeguarding

The school has a Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy aligned with Keeping Children Safe in Education (2024) and related guidance, with defined safeguarding contacts and external safeguarding partners. The designated safeguarding lead is Monika Herland and the deputy DSL is Lise Meling Karlsen; the safeguarding governor is Tone Myhre. Staff receive induction and ongoing safeguarding training, and the policy covers online safety, abuse definitions, and procedures for reporting concerns. Safeguarding responsibilities extend to off-site activities, pupils with special educational needs or English as an additional language, and looked-after or previously looked-after children. External safeguarding partners include the local authority LADO, Merton Children and Families Hub, the police, and the UK Safer Internet Centre.
Parent Experience

History

The Norwegian School in London was founded in 1982 in Wimbledon. It follows Norwegian curricula for pupils aged 6-16 and provides a Norwegian education in London. The school is a registered charity governed by a Board of Governors, which meets five times a year to set the long-term direction and ensure financial stewardship. The motto is Optimum Duo Mundi – The best from both worlds. The registered office is 28 Arterberry Road, SW20 8AH, London.

Community

The school fosters a close-knit, international community with pupils from Norway, the rest of Scandinavia, the UK and beyond. London is used as a classroom, with trips to European cities and local sites, plus a range of cultural activities. Cross-curricular themes such as health and well-being, sustainability, and democracy and citizenship are integrated across the curriculum. The school community is supported by active parent involvement, including an engaged PTA.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)

FAU (Foreldrenes arbeidsutvalg) is the Parents' Working Committee and a major contributor and link between parents and the school. FAU helps organize social events and raises funds for special activities or equipment. FAU holds meetings every 6-8 weeks and is represented on the Board; Linda Wagner Cantrell is the current leader. FAU guidelines are published and a dedicated mail is mail.fau@norwegianschool.org.uk. FAU consists of a representative from each of the ten year groups.
Facilities

Facilities Overview

The Norwegian School in London is located in Wimbledon, at 28 Arterberry Road, SW20 8AH. The school building is a Victorian villa that has been extended and renovated to meet the school's needs. The school was founded in 1982 and provides Norwegian primary and lower secondary education for pupils aged 6 to 16. London is used as a classroom through trips and city-based learning opportunities. There is an on-site gym and a football pitch on the campus.

Sports Facilities

The campus includes a gym and a football pitch. The school supports sport through a broad program of after-school clubs and activities, including tennis, rugby, and football, with additional offerings such as rowing, archery and hockey available through partnerships with local providers.

Academic Facilities

The Norwegian School in London offers Norwegian primary (Y1-4) and lower secondary (Y5-7) and secondary (Y8-10) education. The school provides English language instruction, with three hours of English per week and Cambridge ESOL exam preparation once a week, with these exams optional. Spanish and French are offered as elective foreign languages in addition to English. The school reports that ungdomstrinnet results exceed the national average for Norwegian schools, and it emphasizes strong English development to support transitions to UK educational settings.

Extra Curricular Facilities

London's diversity supports a wide range of extra-curricular activities available to students, including band, chess, singing in a family choir, and instrument lessons. Specific activities include Tennis (via Westside LTC), Rugby (via Wimbledon RFC), Football (via local clubs), Music, Rowing, Archery, and Hockey with external providers. There are also opportunities for kayaking, sailing, beach volleyball, badminton/squash, and other activities in partnerships with local organizations. The school organizes trips and events such as international visits, activity days, and end-of-year camps, and collaborates with other schools (e.g., the Swedish School) for certain celebrations and events.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual

At school, students can join a band, play chess, sing in a family choir, or learn an instrument. These activities support creative and cognitive development. They are available as part of the school's on-site extracurricular options. Participation helps students develop focus and teamwork.

Arts & Creative

On-site music opportunities include band participation, a family choir, and instrument lessons. These activities foster creative expression and collaboration. Students can develop musical skills and perform within the school community. Participation supports confidence and performance abilities.

Cultural & Language

The school observes cultural events such as Sámi Day. London is used as a classroom for field trips to theatres and museums. These experiences broaden students' cultural awareness. London serves as a living classroom through theatre and museum visits.

Social & Hobbies

At school, students can participate in band, chess, a family choir, and instrument lessons. The London-based leisure activities include tennis, rugby, football, music, rowing, archery, and hockey. External providers are linked for each activity to help families access local programs. These activities foster social interaction, teamwork, and physical engagement.

Leadership & Professional

The school has a student council (Elevrådet). The student council provides opportunities for student leadership within the school. It involves students in influencing school life and decisions. This structure supports developing leadership and collaborative skills.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing

The school highlights a range of London-based physical activities, including tennis, rugby, football, rowing, archery, and hockey. Participation promotes physical health and social wellbeing. The school connects families with local providers to access these activities outside school hours. These opportunities support balance between academics and recreation.
Languages

Language Provision

Norwegian is the language of instruction. English tuition is provided with dedicated weekly hours (Year 1–4: 2.5 hours per week; Years 8–10: three hours per week, plus optional Cambridge ESOL preparation). Foreign languages offered as electives include Spanish and French, in addition to English. The school maintains a high standard of English language development to support progress in English as a second language.

Bilingual Teaching

The Norwegian School in London uses Norwegian as the language of instruction and follows the Norwegian curriculum. English is taught as a language alongside Norwegian instruction, with Year 1–4 pupils having 2.5 hours of English each week, taught by both native English-speaking and Norwegian teachers. The school uses London as an extended classroom and pupils commonly speak both English and Norwegian in daily life.

Immersion Programs

Norwegian is learned through immersion, with pupils hearing and using Norwegian in all contexts. Students who arrive with insufficient Norwegian receive individualized learning plans and extra support, including an Individual Education Plan where needed, until they can follow ordinary Norwegian instruction. Families are encouraged to speak Norwegian at home to support language development.
Admissions

Admissions

1. The school is open to applicants who support the school ethos and wish to receive education based on the Norwegian Curriculum; the main language of tuition is Norwegian. Applicants who are not Norwegian citizens may be asked to attend an interview or prove sufficient knowledge of Norwegian (or another Scandinavian language); the Head Teacher will decide on suitability. Norwegian State Grants may also cover Special Education following separate decisions by Norwegian authorities. For those not eligible for Norwegian State Grants, full fees are payable as determined by the Governors; any costs related to Special Educational Needs will be charged additionally. The governors have absolute discretion to approve or reject any admission application. 2. Admission is based on completion of an Application Form from the school homepage and submission of the information requested therein. 3. The Deadline for Applications is 1st March for starting the following School Year; however applications may be accepted and admission granted at other times provided that there are sufficient places available. Capacity is such that all applicants who satisfy the criteria are expected to be offered a place. 4. Pupils already on roll will keep their places for the following year. 5. Applications are subject to priority as follows: 5.1 Children in the Nursery applying for place on Year 1; 5.2 Staff Members' and Board Members' Children; 5.3 Children with siblings in the school; 5.4 Seniority of application. 6. Short stay applications: 6.1 Applications for an entire School Year have priority over applications for One Term; 6.2 Short-term applications of minimum three months may be considered if there are sufficient places available in the relevant year group; applicants must pay the fee equal to one term (6 months) regardless of the actual length of stay. 7. A place must be taken up no later than four weeks after the place is available; payment is required for the entire period from the day the place is allocated as the first school day. 8. Applications submitted before the deadline will be handled as follows: 8.1 An Admission Committee Meeting will be held within one week; 8.2 The Admission Committee is chaired by the Head Teacher; 8.3 Outcomes will be provided before 15 March; 8.4 If there is a waiting list, a new Admission Committee meeting will be held in the first week of May. 9. Following initial admission to the Primary or Secondary School, all of these requirements must be met before a place is allocated and reserved: 9.1 Completion of an Admission Form with additional information; 9.2 Payment of a deposit of £250 per place; 9.3 Signing of a Contract for a School Place. 10. For pupils with Special Educational Needs, adequate and complete information in good time is essential for preparing teaching and training. 11. Complaints: 11.1 Any complaints should be handled according to the School Complaints Procedure; 11.2 Norwegian citizens will also have a separate right to file a complaint with Norwegian authorities if an application for a place is not approved. The school will provide further information in case of a rejection.

Waitlist

Waiting list: A waiting list may be used. If a waiting list exists, an Admission Committee Meeting is held within the first week of May.
School Events
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