Schools across the Jæren region in Norway are hosting overnight events for students to watch the national men’s football team play its first World Cup match in 28 years. Institutions including Bryne, Nærbø, and Vardheia ungdomsskule have organized late-night viewings for the match against Iraq, with Bryne ungdomsskule—the former school of Erling Braut Haaland—moving the school day to accommodate the late-night schedule.
How schools are managing the late-night event
Staff members at the participating schools initiated the events to allow students to watch the match collectively. At Bryne ungdomsskule, students who attend the viewing are granted time off on Wednesday, according to school rector Iselin Gjære Lothe. Similar arrangements are in place at Nærbø ungdomsskule, where students are not required to report for class until 12:00 on Wednesday, as stated by rector Linda Hadland Forsmo.
The events feature activities such as Kahoot, board games, and collective singing, alongside snacks and match viewing on large screens. At Nærbø, approximately 70 to 80 percent of the 125 students on the 8th grade were expected to attend, with parents also invited to join the gathering.
Why this shift in school policy matters
The decision to host these events reflects a response to the logistical dilemma faced by many families regarding late-night sporting events. According to Iselin Gjære Lothe, the school aimed to provide a shared, supervised experience rather than leaving parents to decide whether to keep their children awake for the match. By hosting the event, the schools have turned a potential conflict between school attendance and a rare national sporting moment into a community-building occasion.
What may happen next
Following the match, students are expected to return to their regular academic routines on Wednesday afternoon. Depending on the outcome of the match, the schools may see varying levels of engagement and energy among the student body. Looking toward the future, some students have expressed a desire for similar school-sanctioned viewings during the upcoming Women’s World Cup, though no official plans have been confirmed by school administrators.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which schools are participating in the World Cup events?
According to reports, Bryne, Nærbø, and Vardheia ungdomsskule, as well as the 7th grade at Bryne skule, are hosting events.
Are students required to attend school on Wednesday morning?
No, students attending the overnight events at Bryne and Nærbø have been granted exemptions from morning classes, with Nærbø students not expected to arrive until 12:00.
Who initiated the World Cup arrangements?
Staff members at the respective schools took the initiative to organize the viewings, subsequently receiving approval from school leadership and consulting with parent contacts.
Will these school-based events become a standard practice for future major sporting tournaments in Norway?
