English-language education has been considered "absolutely crucial" by Northvolt for the establishment of the battery factory. The school has children of many nationalities.
Already last autumn, when Northvolt laid off 1,000 employees in Skellefteå, Internationella Engelska Skolan (IES) strengthened its "safety team" to support worried students.
The school has around 530 students, and in every class, there are at least a couple of students with connections to the battery factory. Some left following last autumn’s lay-offs, but new students have enrolled, keeping the total number stable throughout the year.
– We thought we would be more affected than we were, says IES principal Kristina Ekenstedt.
But following the bankruptcy, the situation is once more uncertain. Norran has spoken with several parents who are concerned about the potential impact on IES.
– There are several teachers and students from other countries who came here thanks to Northvolt. It would be sad if they disappear, says one parent.
– You hope that the impact won’t be too noticeable, or, in the worst-case scenario, that the school closes, says another.
However, Ekenstedt’s message is unequivocal: Internationella Engelska Skolan’s presence in Skellefteå is not contingent on Northvolt.
– We existed in Skellefteå before Northvolt, and we will continue to be here. The majority of our students have no connection to Northvolt, she says.
"We will feel the impact of this, just like all other schools," says Kristina Ekenstedt.
At the same time, it is evident that the school will be impacted, regardless of the battery factory's fate.
– We will feel this, just like all other schools and businesses in Skellefteå. Everything is very uncertain.
Region Västerbotten has developed several future scenarios for Skellefteå. One scenario involves new owners acquiring Northvolt. The other involves the factory's complete closure.
How would that affect you?
– The major question then becomes: How many students will we have? Based on that, we need to assess our resources, the number of educators we require, and so forth.
– We must operate based on various scenarios and receive robust support from our head office throughout this process. However, there are currently too many potential outcomes for us to formulate concrete plans, says Ekenstedt.
She adds:
– My priority is our students and our teaching. We're staying calm.
Internationella Engelska Skolan opened in the autumn term of 2019 in the former premises of Brännanskolan.
IES also has a separate school unit called the International School. Around 60 students attend, who are in Sweden for a short time. The instruction is entirely in English, and many have connections to the battery factory.
– We have no plans at the moment to close the International School. Currently, there is still a need for this programme, we have the resources to continue, and we have not discussed any other decision, says Ekenstedt.
After the bankruptcy announcement, there have been many questions and concerns from both children and guardians, says Kristina Ekenstedt.
She points out that many who have moved to Skellefteå want to stay here, and that the municipality has effectively integrated new residents, fostering a sense of belonging.
– The uncertainty is difficult, because there are no concrete answers. We all feel that knot in our stomach. What will happen now? How many residents will we lose? How many students? Obviously, it's the same situation in municipal schools.
– The only thing that is certain is that the school's daily life continues. What we can do is address the current emotions. We'll listen to the children's thoughts and concerns, just like any other day. The school should be their safe place.