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News | 02 June 2025

An Article From Mitt Roslagen

Enjoy an article written by the Mitt Roslagen about our school here at I.E.S. Norrtälje!

“The only thing I see on people’s faces is smiles”

At Internationella Engelska Skolan (IES), clear rules go hand in hand with creativity, learning, and mutual respect—something appreciated by both students and teachers.

“Every weekend I just look forward to school starting again,” says Lora Vujko in Year 7.

A school year has passed since Internationella Engelska Skolan opened its doors to students from preschool to Year 9 in Norrtälje. Here, children are met every day with structure, respect, and a positive atmosphere. In the hallways, it’s clear that student well-being is a top priority—with colorful walls, quiet study rooms, and Sweden’s largest schoolyard.

Josefin Åkerblom, activity coordinator, highlights the school’s investment in student engagement through after-school clubs, the Student Union, theater productions, and themed days like Crazy Hair Day.

“We really want to bring some life and movement into the school so it doesn’t feel sterile,” says Josefin.

The principal, Mr. Fyles, says the school’s values are based on clarity and respect.

“Our goal is to create the intelligent women and men of the future. We promise parents a calm and orderly school environment and teach children that structure helps more than being allowed to do whatever they want.”

Politeness is another important part of the school culture, according to Mr. Fyles.

“When I say ‘thank you,’ I show both respect and that I need your help. That’s something we teach from the beginning.”

Leadership also means leading by example, he believes.

“If students see me picking up trash, they’ll do it too. Culture is built through actions.”

It’s clear the students embrace this mindset. Mirna Ibrahim and Lora Vujko in class 7A say both the lessons and the environment make them feel unusually happy at school.

“You learn a lot but also have fun at the same time. We spend a lot of time outside and get fresh air. If someone is alone, we always ask if they want to join in,” says Mirna.

Teaching is 50 percent in English and 50 percent in Swedish—something both Lora and Mirna appreciate.

“If you don’t understand something, you often get the information in Swedish too. It’s good to have that option,” says Lora.

The girls see English as a natural preparation for the future.

“If you’re going to work or travel abroad, you need to be able to speak English. Just knowing Swedish doesn’t get you as far in life,” says Mirna.

Lora and Mirna strongly recommend the school—not least because the teachers are present and act immediately if something happens.

“At my old school, bullying was really common. The students were mean and yelled at each other, and the teachers didn’t care. Here, if someone says something mean or hits someone, the teachers address it immediately and take it seriously,” says Mirna.

The principal agrees that quick responses and care are important.

“Our teachers greet every student each morning. Positive energy is contagious—that’s how we build a safe and supportive culture.”

For Mr. Fyles, teaching is not just a profession, but a calling.

“A doctor repairs broken people. A teacher creates people. When you understand the importance of your work, it becomes a calling.”

Mirna and Lora look forward to every school day.

“At this school, the only thing I see on people’s faces is smiles,” says Mirna.

Josefin Åkerblom, Lora Vujko, and Mirna Ibrahim love spending their time at IES.

“Here you gain knowledge, feel happy, and actually long to come to school,” says Mirna.

“I’m not here to sit at my desk and send letters to angry parents,” says principal Mr. Fyles.

“I’m here because I enjoy shaping young people’s lives.”

Students who show Moral Integrity, Ambition, Responsibility, and Kindness receive so-called “marks” and are rewarded with a diploma and a place on the Wall of Fame.

The school places great emphasis on inclusion and making sure no one feels left out.

The walls are painted in carefully chosen positive colors and are often decorated with art. One wall features the quote: “Clear eyes, Full hearts.”

The school encourages cultural and artistic activities, such as theater. Kelvin Halvarståhl is the narrator, and Rayane Muhammed Yama plays a lawyer in the evening performance.