Page updated on 17, november 2025

Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding our upcoming relocation to Fornebu, clarifications on key decisions, as well as information about the next steps. Our objective is to keep you informed, involved, and supported throughout this transition that we are preparing together.

Key points at a glance

    • Relocation planned for the start of the 2028–2029 school year

    • Skovveien and Vulkan will continue to be used until then

    • Indoor and outdoor spaces will be larger and more modern

    • Tuition fees will continue to follow the usual annual adjustments

    • Community involvement remains a priority throughout the process

If you have any further questions or would like to share your feedback after reading this FAQ, please contact us at LFO28@lfo.no.

Context and Decision-Making Process

When did the search for a new location begin?

Our search for a new location began back in early 2020. Since then, the Board has faced several challenges, including renovations at Skovveien, financial constraints, and the search for a site that meets the needs of all students and staff. After exploring many options, it became clear that relocating was not just an option, but a necessary step to ensure the school’s stability and future growth. However, finding a suitable location that could accommodate the entire school while meeting all requirements for outdoor space simply wasn’t possible. So, the board decided in June 2024 to continue with Skovveien as the main site after renovation was completed.

While we remained focused on the Skovveien/Sporveisgata solution throughout 2024 and into early 2025, unresolved uncertainties, including renovation costs and responsibility, and finding a site for the kindergarten, led the Board to reopen the search for alternatives in October 2024 as a precaution. This step ensured we had options in case the initial plan could not be realized.

The Board remained fully committed to the Skovveien/Sporveisgata project, with the intention of seeing it through. The uncertainties that arose, particularly around renovation costs, responsibilities, and the location for the kindergarten, were actively being discussed with the relevant parties, and we hoped to be able to resolve them.

Given the context, we chose not to communicate these points prematurely, in order to avoid raising concerns about a situation that was still uncertain and subject to ongoing negotiations. That said, in hindsight, we acknowledge that a more open approach could have helped strengthen transparency and trust. It was a delicate balance between keeping the community informed and avoiding unnecessary uncertainty while discussions were still ongoing.

We first learned about a possible site at Fornebu in December 2024. At that time, our priority remained focused on the Skovveien solution, but we were also mindful of the growing challenges around renovations, costs, and long-term sustainability. As these issues persisted, we decided to explore the Fornebu option in February 2025. We were aware that Fornebu’s location would raise concerns within our community, especially for families living in the opposite direction and with younger children, and this factor was on our minds throughout our discussions. Nevertheless, at that point, Fornebu was the only concrete and viable option available:

  • Oslo municipality confirmed in early June that they didn’t have any suitable sites available for us.
  • Sporveisgata (former German school), which we explored as a temporary solution, was declined by Frogner bydel due to our student numbers.
  • The request to use the former French Embassy at Skillebekk for the kindergarten was declined early in the process.

Given these constraints, the decision to move forward with Fornebu avoided the worst-case scenario of having to close our school, an outcome we were not willing to risk.

Yes, the Board’s decision of June 5th to move to Fornebu was unanimous.

The reason for the delayed communication is the complexity and constantly changing nature of the negotiations. The Board was in continuous dialogues with Oslo municipality, Norwegian Property and other stakeholders, and it was important for us to ensure we had a solid and realistic solution before presenting it to the community.

Confidentiality was crucial while we were negotiating with Oslo municipality and at same time securing the backing of the top politicians in Bærum. It was equally important to prevent premature media coverage and avoid speculation or uncertainty by releasing incomplete information. Furthermore, Norwegian Property, as the landlord, is legally obliged to report the signature of new rent agreements in a timely and orderly manner to the financial market. This disclosure was carried out on July 4th.

Our priority throughout has been to provide the community with accurate and clear information, rather than risk confusion by communicating before all aspects were confirmed.

Yes, when the Board made the decision to sign the 20-year contract, it was acting entirely within its formal mandate and legal authority under the Association’s statutes and in accordance with Norwegian regulations, which empowers it to make exceptional and significant decisions on behalf of the school when necessary.

Looking ahead, the board remains strongly committed to transparency and ongoing dialogue with the entire school community.

The decision to reschedule the General Assembly was made with careful consideration of several factors, foremost among them the relocation process. While the decision had already been voted by the Board on June 5th, some legal and final negotiations were still being finalized. Since we couldn’t communicate the decision until the last legal steps were completed and due to confidentiality issues, it felt difficult to hold the Assembly without being able to share such an important update with you.

In addition, the new timing allowed us to introduce the incoming school management team and better align with the schedules of the other LFO boards (Conseil d’Établissement and Conseil d’École), helping ensure consistency across our governance processes.

We want to assure you that these decisions were motivated by the goal of providing the most accurate information and upholding good governance, not to delay or withhold information.

Going forward, we are committed to make sure that the LFO community is actively involved at every stage of the relocation process. We know that this is a significant change, and we want to make sure that families, staff, and students feel informed, heard, and supported. You will have regular opportunities to share feedback, ask questions, and receive updates as we move ahead. To support this, we will launch a parent survey to gather concerns and priorities, hosting regular Q&A sessions for updates and discussion, and organize site visits to Fornebu for both families and staff. The transition plan will be shaped with input from you.

Communication will be maintained through dedicated channels to keep everyone informed and engaged. Our aim is to balance expectations with practical realities, so we can move forward together with clarity and confidence. 

The Sites of Skovveien and Sporveisgata

Will we still move to Sporveisgata in 2026 or at a later stage?

No, we aim to remain in the current premisses (Skovveien and Vulkan) until the new site is ready to welcome us. We continue to maintain a positive relationship with Oslo municipality and a signed contract with a set move date will allow us to stay in Skovveien for another 3 years. Similarly, we have renewed our lease at Vulkan to ensure we can stay there throughout the transition period. This approach will hopefully provide stability for students and families as we prepare for the relocation.

In June 2025, Oslo municipality confirmed they could not proceed with renovations at Skovveien or offer an alternative site. Additionally, Frogner “bydel” rejected our application to accommodate the necessary student numbers at Sporveisgata. As a result, we are unable to continue with the plan for multi-site with Skovveien/Sporveisgata, as neither location meets the requirements for space and facilities needed for our students.

Consequently, we have terminated our rental agreement with Sporveisgata in line with the escape clause we originally negotiated.

Yes, Oslo municipality has confirmed the cancellation of renovations at Skovveien. They initially indicated in autumn 2024 that renovation would not be possible, and in June 2025 they officially confirmed this decision, stating that the renovation would be too complex and costly given their current budget constraints. As a result, only safety-related maintenance will be carried out during our remaining time at Skovveien.  

We cannot stay at Skovveien long term without refurbishment because the buildings are outdated and no longer meet the required standards for modern schools. Current regulations and expectations for school buildings demand features and measures that Skovveien simply cannot provide.

That said, we want to assure you that our school administration regularly monitors our facilities, submits maintenance requests to Oslobygg, and maintains an ongoing, constructive dialogue with them to make sure all safety requirements are strictly met. Oslobygg will continue regular safety-related maintenance, so you can be confident that your children’s environment remains safe and secure throughout our time here. Our current arrangement allows us to stay at Skovveien for another three years while we prepare for the relocation, and during this period, we’re fully committed to maintaining a learning environment where children’s safety is never compromised.

The Fornebu Project

What is the duration of the contract with Fornebu?

The LFO has signed a 20-year contract with Norwegian Properties.

The aim is to begin the 2028–2029 school year at the new site of Fornebu, and we will share a detailed timeline as planning progresses.

The current tenant is expected to vacate the building in summer 2027, with construction projected to take approximately 12 months. The landlord is confident that the project will be delivered on schedule. In the meantime, our school will continue to operate at Skovveien and Vulkan until the new site is ready to welcome us.

The Fornebu site is currently used as offices, so we need to change its official use before it can become a school. The key steps include applying for a change of use (rezoning), securing approval from Bærum municipality, submitting the building application, receiving the building permit, completing construction, and then relocating. For timing and milestone details, please follow the roadmap on our Fornebu webpage.

We also want to reassure you that, although the school will be within a larger building complex, it will be designed and operated as a clearly separate space. We will have our own dedicated entrance, circulation areas, and facilities. The playground will face outward, with minimal visibility from other tenants, and access to school areas will be restricted to ensure a safe, child-friendly environment.

There is no dedicated space inside the new school building for dedicated canteen for students and staff, mainly due to cost constraints. That said, we recognize the importance of convenient, affordable meal options for the students. Fornebu has several adjacent staff restaurants and eateries, and we’ll explore partnerships to offer accessible meal solutions for our students.

The outdoor space will be much larger than at the current premises, nestled in green surroundings and right by the sea. We’re planning dedicated areas for different age groups, so everyone has room to play, relax, and enjoy the outdoors. We know how popular football and basketball are and will do our best to include these facilities when we apply for a construction permit. In addition, there’s a sand volleyball court in the nearby park that will be available for our older students to use.

The detailed plan for the playground hasn’t been started yet, but we will make sure to include the ideas and wishes from our community in the planning process.

We believe that our community’s identity comes from the people, relationships, and traditions we share and not just from the building or location itself. As we make this transition, it’s important for us that families, students, and staff all have the opportunity to share what matters most to them. We’ll be gathering input, exploring ways to uphold our values, and arranging community events at the new location to help strengthen our sense of belonging.

At this stage, we haven’t yet discussed the logo, branding, or symbols for our future school, as we want to explore these together with you. We do recognize that a relocation might affect some traditions. At the same time, change can create opportunities to refresh and strengthen our traditions, keeping them meaningful for students and families. Our focus is making sure everyone feels included and that our school’s spirit remains strong as we move forward together.

We understand that there have been multiple phases in this process, and that previous decisions may have appeared final at the time. However, the decision to move forward with the Fornebu project is based on a solid foundation. A specific site has been identified and secured, the contract is signed, and we have strong support from Bærum municipality. The board has conducted extensive due diligence, including financial modelling and risk assessments. While no project of this size is entirely without risk, we are confident that this is the most viable and sustainable path forward for our school’s future.

Transportation and Access to the Fornebu Site

Will there be dedicated parking spaces for the LFO staff and parents?

There will be a dedicated drop zone to ensure quick and safe morning drop-offs and afternoon pick-ups. While there won’t be reserved parking for staff or parents, paid parking will be available nearby the new school building. This arrangement is similar to what we currently have, but the new drop zone will be even better planned to improve convenience and safety.

Bus stop Telenor Fornebu is the closest to the new school building. Another nearby stop is IT Fornebu. Buses 31, 24, 28, and 81 serve both stops, providing connections between Fornebu and several areas in Oslo. When the new metro line, Fornebubanen, opens in 2029, the nearest metro station will be Flytårnet. This line will connect Fornebu with Majorstuen, and the journey will take 12 minutes.

The school bus service is costly (~25 000 NOK per child per school year) and would be offered as an optional service in addition to the tuition fees. To make sure we understand what our community need and want, we plan to gather feedback through a parent survey later this year. Based on your feedback, we’ll consider whether offering the bus service would be worthwhile for our community.

We recognize that transportation might remain a concern, especially for families with younger children, so transport and logistics are a priority for us. We plan to initiate dialogue with Ruter to explore what can be done to facilitate transport between Fornebu and Oslo. We’re also assessing practical measures the school and community could take, for example a chaperon system, to ease drop-off and pick-up.

To ensure we address community needs in a structured way, we will collect your feedback via parent consultation opening in November. When we have a clear overview of the needs, we will prioritize and work on mitigation measures.

Financial and Strategic Considerations

How will moving to Fornebu impact tuition fees and the school’s overall financial situation?

Tuition fees are expected to follow inflation and salary adjustments (approx. 3.5%), which would have applied regardless of location. The school’s financial situation remains viable under current assumptions. Our transition plan is built on current student enrolment numbers and includes provisions for a possible temporary drop in enrolment as families adjust to the move. Even with these considerations, our budget remains sustainable, and the school’s finances will stay secure through the transition.

Relocating the school to Bærum means that while our location will change, our commitment to serving families throughout the Oslo region remains the same. The process and criteria for enrolment remain the same.

The new site in Fornebu provides a stable, long-term facility with modern amenities and excellent accessibility, including easy public transport within zone 1, so commuting from Oslo will be simple and covered by the standard Ruter ticket at no extra cost.

Regarding government funding, the move will not negatively impact financial support for the school or kindergarten. Governmental school support has been significantly increased to meet higher rent cost, and the relocation will not have any impact on this. Governmental funding for our kindergarten will follow the usual rules, based on maximum fees and local operational costs, and will remain unchanged. The support for SFO (“étude”) is provided nationally by the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training (Udir). The school’s location does not impact this funding, so you can expect continued support for this important service.

We also want to clarify that free public transportation is only provided for public schools. As a private school, we are not eligible for this benefit, regardless of the municipality in which we are located.

Yes, we have consulted with professionals and stakeholders throughout the process, including parents within the LFO community with relevant expertise. We have received valuable support in areas such as legal advice, communication and engagement with public authorities. Their contributions have helped strengthen the project and supported the Board in making a well-informed decision.

In addition, a specialized school architecture has conducted a comprehensive assessment of the site to ensure compliance with all legal requirements, including space per student, access routes and classroom distribution. This thorough evaluation confirms that the site is fully equipped to accommodate our school community.

Fornebu is a vibrant community with lots of international families, and it’s set to grow even more in the coming years. We believe that there will be a local demand from both families already living or working in Fornebu and those deciding to move there because of our school’s relocation, similar to how many families settled near Frogner for school access.

Over the next three years, our transition strategy will focus on retaining our current students and actively attracting new ones across all academical levels, from kindergarten through high school. This transition is also an opportunity to strengthen our position in a growing environment, while remaining true to the spirit of the LFO.

Bringing the different parts of the school together in one building will make it possible to optimize the support staffing as they will be on the same site and remove the transit time for the employees working in different sections of the school.

 

Additionally, since many of the LFO families have children across different academic levels, we believe that a common location would offer logistical advantages, as it did prior to 2021.

 

 

Dialogues with the Municipalities and Public Communication

How has Oslo municipality reacted to the news?

Oslobygg, our landlord, and the City Council (Byrådet) have expressed in writing that they regret not being able to provide a viable solution for us, fully understand our decision and will support us throughout the transition phase. We appreciate their constructive engagement.

The dialogue with Bærum municipality has been extremely positive and encouraging throughout this process. Bærum has demonstrated strong support for our school’s relocation, not only by expressing their endorsement but also taking practical steps to ease our transition. The municipality has made it clear that they are committed to accelerating the regulation plan application, recognizing the importance of moving efficiently so our school can settle in and begin planning with certainty.

Additionally, the mayor of Bærum has shown genuine enthusiasm for welcoming our school to the community of Fornebu, emphasizing both the cultural and educational value we bring. 

Our intention was to share the news with the community first and allow time for everyone to process and ask questions before it appeared in the media. However, the story was published online sooner than we anticipated, while the printed version was more aligned with our timeline.  The first and rather urgent project step is to register a request for a start-up meeting with the planning authorities.  These requests are publicly available and monitored by the media.

 

 

Other Opportunities Considered or Abandoned

Why did the Board abandon the Sandaker project in 2024?

In the end, the building didn’t meet the legal requirements to run the school in the way we were planning, and the financial risks were too high to transform the site to a school with current required standards. Sandaker would still require the LFO to operates with multiple sites, so in June 2024 the Board concluded the benefits didn’t outweigh the financial risk.

In 2024, the opportunity arose to use part of the French Embassy building to host the kindergarten. Despite initial positive feedback, the French government ultimately declined the long-term use of the Embassy site for the kindergarten.

Yes, we carefully assessed the proposal from Oslo municipality regarding the possibility for the LFO to take over the Skovveien renovations. We conducted a thorough internal evaluation that included reviewing the financial implications, legal responsibilities, project management requirements, and long-term risks associated with managing such a complex and expensive renovation. The conclusion was clear: the LFO does not have the financial or organizational capacity to take on a project of this scale.

The cost estimates of the engineers were extremely high as the buildings have not been kept up to date for many years and the SKOK standards (“Standard Kravspesifikasjoner for formålsbygg i Oslo Kommune”) set by Oslo municipality are very strict. Universal access, ventilation and renovation of cultural heritage protected windows are very complicated and costly in a listed building like Skovveien 9. At the same time, these installations would “steal” a significant amount of teaching space and reduce the student numbers in Skovveien.

No, the plan for school closure in Oslo do not offer any new opportunities for us. The Board carefully reviewed the “Skolebehovsplan 2026-2045” (suggested plan from Oslo’s Department of Education, out for hearing in March 2025), including the proposed school closures. While some school, like Nordpolen, were initially listed for closure, the final school plan recommendation dated 2 June 2025 shows that several of the proposed closures have since been revised. The two schools still proposed for closure are too small to accommodate our number of students and do not meet our current and future needs. Additionally, the “Skolebehovsplan 2026-2045” is still under political review and will be discussed and voted on by the City Council in December 2025. For more information, please refer to this link.

In parallel, Oslo municipality confirmed in June 2025 that they do not anticipate any suitable alternatives for LFO becoming available.

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