Støre warns of declining reading and math skills, calls for smaller class groups

Addressing the Storting, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre highlighted a sharp rise in the proportion of pupils with poor math skills, nearly twice the level recorded in 2015, and a concurrent decline in reading performance and stamina. He advocated for more intensive small-group instruction for first, second and fifth grades to improve outcomes in core subjects. The proposal includes legislative measures to require schools to allocate part of the school day to these smaller groups.

Støre also announced that digital competence will no longer be listed as a separate competency, shifting emphasis to literacy and numeracy. Existing national exams will remain in place as the ministry works on new supportive testing formats, and one outlet teacher staffing norm will be maintained.