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Oslo International School

Norway, Oslo

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Parent Experience

Community, involvement and what it's like to be a parent at this school

History

Founded in 1963 by Margaret Stark, Else Fearnley Hvas, and Frida Berents, Oslo International School provided an internationally minded education in English for students in the Oslo region. The school grew from 36 pupils to about 280 during the 1960s and offered British GCE A Levels. In 1989 it became an approved International Baccalaureate (IB) school. Barbara Carlsen became head of school in 1997 and led the school through accreditation with the Council of International Schools (CIS) and NEASC, which remain its accrediting bodies. The campus has been updated over time with refurbishments in 2006, a new Primary wing in 2008, a multipurpose hall and sports hall in 2013, and a new Upper Secondary building in 2017; today Thale Herbertson leads the school in fulfilling its mission.

Community

The OIS community is diverse, dynamic, and supportive, with parents, families, and volunteers as partners in education. It upholds the school's mission, vision, values, and commitments, promoting global awareness, intercultural understanding, and acceptance of diverse perspectives. The community is inclusive, respectful, and collaborative, fostering empathy, resilience, a growth mindset, and opportunities to engage with local, national, and global communities. Members are encouraged to participate in school life and decisions by volunteering, attending meetings and events, and building strong relationships across the school community, while ensuring a safe and caring environment for all.

Parent-Teacher Association

Our Parent Association (OISPA) is a dynamic, committed body that makes a real difference to students and the community. OISPA fosters community and engagement, coordinating activities and events that enhance communication between parents and staff and enrich the learning experience. OISPA arranges monthly Community Coffees and Parent Association meetings to facilitate dialogue with OIS management. It offers social events—from quiz nights to books and beverages—along with volunteering opportunities such as trunk or treat and sports day and fundraising activities. By joining OISPA, parents become part of a supportive network that helps shape the student experience.

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees NOK 13,200 - 288,700
Ages 3 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 600
Type Co-educational
Opened 1963
Bus Service No

Oslo International School is an independent school in Norway, funded by fees. It serves ages 3 to 18 and offers the IB Diploma Programme for Upper Secondary, with Pre-IB/IB for Lower Secondary and IPC. The Upper Secondary path runs three years from Pre-IB to IB2, with examinations that prepare students for university and employment. The IB framework and IPC in the younger years encourage enquiry, knowledge and intercultural understanding, with results that frequently exceed international standards. Founded in 1963, OIS is accredited by the Council of International Schools and NEASC. The campus houses science and computer labs, a 300-square-metre library with 15,000 books and a Librarian, and an Innovation Space with a laser cutter and a 3D printer. Facilities include a large gym, a multi-purpose hall, and outdoor spaces. Beyond academics, OIS offers a co-curricular program, including Lego robotics, Visual Arts, language visits, and Service Learning through NGO partnerships.

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