1960s – A Vision Takes Shape

Oslo International School was founded in 1963 by three visionary educators – Margaret Stark, Frida Berents and Else Fearnley Hvas – who recognised the growing need for an inclusive, English-language school for internationally mobile families in the Oslo region.

Beginning with just 36 students, their vision quickly gained momentum. By the end of the decade, enrolment had grown to around 280 students, and OIS had expanded its academic programme to include British GCE A Levels, laying the foundations for the international school it is today. 

1970s – Humble Beginnings

The 1970s reflected the determination and resilience that would become hallmarks of OIS. As Oslo's international community continued to grow, the school adapted to increasing demand despite limited facilities. Finding suitable accommodation was an ongoing challenge, and OIS operated from several temporary locations while making the very best of the spaces available.

To ensure every child could be welcomed, the school introduced Transitus – a mixed-age class based in what was known as the "Gold Room". It provided a temporary home for newly arrived students until places became available in their year group, reflecting the school's caring, flexible and inclusive approach.

1980s – An International Future

Student numbers continued to rise throughout the 1980s, leading to a partial relocation to what is now the French School in central Oslo.

A defining milestone came in 1989 when OIS became an authorised International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. This marked the beginning of a new era, firmly establishing the school's international identity and educational philosophy for generations to come.

1990s – A Permanent Home

After more than three decades of relocating between different premises, OIS finally found its permanent home in Bekkestua in 1995. The official opening was attended by HRH Princess Astrid and Bærum Mayor Odd Reinsfelt.

The following year, founding Director Margaret Stark retired after 33 years of dedicated leadership, having guided the school from just 36 students to a thriving international community. In 1997, Barbara Carlsen became Head of School and led OIS through successful accreditation with the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC), accreditations the school continues to hold today.

2000s – Building for the Future

As OIS continued to grow, significant investment was made in creating a campus for future generations of learners. A major redevelopment in 2005 transformed the school with a new entrance lobby, library, science laboratories and a purpose-built Lower Primary wing. The extension was shortlisted for Norway's Building of the Year award in 2008.

The years that followed saw continued campus development, including the addition of a multipurpose hall and sports hall in 2013 and a dedicated Upper Secondary building in 2017, creating the modern learning environment enjoyed by students today.

Today – Inspiring the Future

More than six decades later, Oslo International School has grown into a vibrant international community where students from over 60 nationalities learn, grow and thrive together.

Under the leadership of Head of School Thale Herbertson, OIS remains true to the vision of its founders: empowering every student to develop their unique potential through outstanding teaching, a caring community and an internationally minded education.

As founding Director Margaret Stark once reflected:

"There are very many international schools around the world, but we like to think that ours is something extra special. In all my 33 years at OIS, I was never in any doubt that everyone working there had the best interests of all the students at heart."