Starting in 2028, children in Sweden will begin school at the age of six, one year earlier than the current system, as part of a major reform in the country’s education system. This change marks a shift away from play-based learning for younger children.
The government plans to eliminate the mandatory preschool year for six-year-olds, known as förskoleklass, and integrate them into grundskola (primary school). The center-right coalition government, led by the Moderates and supported by the far-right Sweden Democrats, introduced the initiative ahead of the 2025 budget presentation. The plan, originating under the previous administration, is also backed by the Social Democrats.
Education Minister Johan Pehrson emphasized a return to educational “basics,” with an increased focus on early reading, writing, and math skills. He said this would provide students with a stronger foundation in essential skills like literacy and numeracy.
However, critics argue that the reform contradicts research advocating for play-based learning as the best approach for children’s development, allowing them to learn through play, exploration, and curiosity. Union leaders also expressed concerns that the move could lead to job losses for specialized preschool teachers.
Christian Eidevald, an early childhood education professor at Södertörn University, warned that pushing six-year-olds into a more formal academic setting risks undermining the benefits of play-based methods, which studies show are key to developing important skills like language and problem-solving. Eidevald, along with other academics, including Ingrid Pramling Samuelsson from the University of Gothenburg, has written an article challenging the government’s decision. They argue that the needs of six-year-olds should be addressed through tailored approaches that harness the expertise of preschool teachers.
Åsa Westlund, education spokesperson for the Social Democrats, stated that her party’s support for the plan is contingent on preserving a balance between learning and play, which should serve as a “bridge between preschool and school.”
Some experts, like Johannes Westberg from the University of Groningen, are in favor of the reform, suggesting it aligns Swedish education with broader European practices. He believes that while traditional school methods will be introduced earlier, it may not affect the overall comprehensive school system.
Other planned education reforms include funding “emergency schools” for temporarily relocating students, increased investment in textbooks to promote screen-free environments, and additional resources for teacher and preschool-teacher training.
