News | 14 October 2026
Meet House Vasa Captain Ellen Kraft at IES Österåker
Meet Ellen Kraft, Year 1 teacher and House Vasa captain at IES Österåker. She shares insights on leadership, respect, and fostering house spirit.
At IES Österåker, our house system forms the core of our school culture by bringing together students from across all year groups. Older students step up as role models, helping to create a safe, calm, and structured environment where every child feels valued and included.
Our three houses reflect the rich local heritage and nature of Österåker. House Vasa, represented by the color white, honors Gustav Vasa’s historical connection to the region and his ties to Rydboholm Castle. Its shield features a crown, symbolizing peace, harmony, and leadership through good example.
Students earn house points daily by demonstrating our core PRIDE values:
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Positive: Spreading encouraging and constructive energy in class and the hallways.
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Respectful: Valuing knowledge, the school environment, each other, and themselves.
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Inclusive: Ensuring every classmate feels welcome and supported.
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Dare to Excel & Engaged in Learning: Demonstrating grit, hard work, and the courage to challenge oneself.
These continuous efforts contribute to the House Trophy standings, building momentum during sports days and school challenges. Staff house captains and student leaders work together to ensure student voices actively shape our school community.
House Captain Spotlight: Ms. Ellen Kraft
Ms. Kraft teaches in class 1A and grew up in Sweden, having also spent part of her childhood in Uppsala. She has been teaching at IES Österåker for two years, having joined when the school first opened.
Outside the classroom, Ms. Kraft is an avid explorer who enjoys outdoor adventures across rivers, mountains, and forests. She is also a passionate reader who aims to read around 100 books every year.
Here is what Ms. Kraft shares about leading House Vasa:
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House Identity: "Vasa connects to Swedish history and Rydboholm Castle. Leading is a big responsibility, and we focus on treating everyone well, leading by example, and always doing our best with grace and respect."
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Looking Ahead: "I look forward to seeing our house spirit grow throughout the year. By supporting each other, we can aim for the trophy again! I am also excited for our Melodifestivalen event, where students and staff sing, dance, and vote together."