Iceland

Abstract

Education Policy 2030 is a ten-year strategy that outlines an overall vision for Iceland’s education system based on the values of resilience, courage, knowledge, happiness and sustainability. The strategy builds on Iceland’s previous collaborations with the OECD and draws on evidence from international research. For example, Iceland undertook an assessment of its system using the framework of the Education Policy Outlook. Thus, the key pillars of the strategy – equal opportunities for all, superior teaching, skills for the future, putting well-being first, and quality at the forefront – align with challenges previously identified by the OECD. Iceland began work on the strategy in 2018, published a draft document in 2020, and has sought guidance from the OECD on turning the document into an actionable implementation strategy. In this process, Iceland has also involved stakeholder groups through a series of meetings with representatives from municipalities, parents, students, teachers, and other interest groups during 2018 and 2019 and through an online public consultation in 2020. An OECD assessment found that this process has built trust and enthusiasm among stakeholders. At the same time, the report encourages Iceland to develop more permanent methods of engagement, involving stakeholders throughout the implementation process.