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News | 19 October 2026

Principal`s Letter October 2026

Principal`s Letter , October 2026

 

Dear Parents and Guardians,                                                                            19 October 2026

Halfway through the autumn term, here is a greeting and a brief update from the school. We are now leaving behind the longest continuous stretch of school days in the academic year, and we notice that some students are ready for a well-deserved break.

Two Highly Successful Inspections Completed

During the autumn term, the school was visited by the Swedish School Inspectorate (Skolinspektionen), which conducted a planned thematic quality review on accessible learning environments in Physical Education and Health. We are thrilled and proud to share that the school received the highest possible evaluation. A big thank you to our dedicated PE teachers!

 Just a week later, right in the middle of the oral IGCSE English exams, Cambridge conducted an unannounced inspection of our school’s procedures. We received top marks in this inspection as well! We are extremely proud of this achievement and grateful for the excellent work done by our Cambridge team.

 If you wonder what IGCSE is, IES Årsta is a Cambridge School. This means that our students, In addition to the Swedish curriculum, can also choose to take Cambridge courses in English, Mathematics, Science, and Spanish for further challenge in Year 8 and 9.

 Erasmus    

Over the past year, IES Årsta has launched partnerships with several schools through Erasmus (the EU program for education cooperation). This week, we are hosting teachers from a school in Greece who are visiting to observe lessons and collaborate with our teaching staff.

  Midterms

As usual, the school is conducting a mid-term review of our students' progress in all subjects. The aim is to ensure that every student is progressing steadily and to put support measures in place if anyone is at risk of not meeting their goals. If your child is at risk of missing a goal, the school will contact you directly.

 Halloween 

On Thursday, October 22nd, we will celebrate Halloween at school. We always look forward to creative costumes and participation from both students and staff.

As in previous years, masks and toy weapons are not allowed. This year, it is also important to avoid dressing up as "The Cat in the Hat," due to recent social media threats against schools in Sweden involving individuals dressed in that character.

The Rest of the Autumn Term

National Tests

Oral national tests will begin after the autumn break in week 45, starting with English for Grade 6. Oral tests will then continue until December 3rd for Grade 6 (English, Math, Swedish) and Grade 9 (English, Swedish).

 Meet the Teachers Evening

On Wednesday, November 4th, between 15:30 and 18:00, all parents are welcome to visit the school to meet subject teachers and management to discuss your child's progress.

 Open House 

On Saturday, November 14th, we are holding an Open House for prospective students and families. If you have younger siblings, friends, or neighbors interested in an international education built on safety, dedication, and academic challenge, you are warmly invited to come experience IES Årsta and meet our staff, students, and leadership team.

Important Dates

 

As always, you are welcome to get in touch if you have any questions or concerns.

Wishing you all a wonderful break!

Warm regards,

Mr Gellerstedt