Europe

Europe has many culturally and linguistically diverse countries that are working in collaboration to strengthen the current educational system. Compulsory education is promoted in most countries within Europe. Some countries encourage school evaluations, conducted by students and external examiners, to assess and improve quality education. The curriculum in many European countries includes similar subjects, although there seems to be national differences in the time allocated for teaching.

Europe Regional Highlights

• In Germany, the government has passed educational reforms addressing school quality assurance, development, and teacher training. Comparative analysis with other countries has prompted Germany to invest in all-day school programs that strengthen education for children and youth.
• A School Development Program instituted in Norway promotes the autonomy of each school in the community and encourages schools to work with local organizations to strengthen current resources.

Nations In Depth

Sweden

In the 1990’s the educational system in Sweden underwent many reforms, which have resulted in higher achievement for students at all levels and decentralization. Recently, the Swedish government has stressed the importance of building partnerships with other countries in order to strengthen educational systems globally, as prompted by the Millennium Development Goals. Learn more here

United Kingdom (UK)

The UK includes England, Northern Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. The educational systems in these countries are similar, with the exception of Scotland, which acts independently. Education is a top priority of the government in the UK. For example, England has established a new Department for Children, Schools, and Families that is promoting the well-being of children and ensuring that educational standards are being met. Learn more here

Lithuania

Not long after declaring its independence from the Soviet Union in March 1990, Lithuania passed an education act ensuring that individuals would receive an education promoting human rights and democratic values. Recent educational reforms have focused on improving management, infrastructure, staff, and content. Learn more here