The aim is to increase the educational level of staff in nurseries.

The Education Committee has approved taking action to increase the educational level of staff in Hafnarfjörður's nurseries.

In Hafnarfjörður, the proportion of preschool teachers is currently about 311%, and others with education in childcare about 171%. Overall, the proportion of professionals in Hafnarfjörður's preschools is therefore around 481%.

Although this is on the higher end compared to other local authorities, the provisions of the law regarding the education and recruitment of teachers and headteachers for nurseries are still not being met.  But it states that a minimum of two-thirds of the full-time equivalent posts for teaching, care and the upbringing of children in each nursery school shall be counted as nursery teacher posts.

To achieve this minimum, the following methods will be offered:

University-educated staff in nurseries who do not have a qualification as a nursery teacher will be given the opportunity to obtain it.

Unqualified staff are given the opportunity to study for a qualification in early years education.

A nursery school teacher can earn a master's degree in educational studies with various specialisations..

In addition, targeted courses will be held to enhance leadership skills and support the managers of the nurseries.

The aim of the City of Hafnarfjörður is that in the coming years, arrangements will be in place to offer younger children a place in a nursery school, and it is a fundamental requirement that teachers are present in the nursery schools.

The Education Council's approval is taking an important step to increase the proportion of qualified professionals and increase the number of teachers.