The Marking the Passing of His Majesty King Harald V

Dear Birralee Families,

Following the sad news of the passing of His Majesty King Harald V, we have lowered the school flag to half-mast as a mark of respect and remembrance.

For our students, this is an opportunity to learn about and reflect on an important moment in Norway’s history and the role the King has played in Norwegian society. Many of our students come from different countries and cultural backgrounds, and we recognise that they may have different levels of familiarity with the Norwegian monarchy and different ways of responding to the news.

Over the coming days, our teachers will make space for students to talk about what has happened, ask questions, and share their thoughts and feelings. We will follow the guidance from the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training, which encourages schools to listen to children, provide clear and age-appropriate information, and create a safe space for different reactions and perspectives.

The school picnic will still take place this afternoon as planned. Just as children’s sporting events are taking place today, we want children and young people to continue to have opportunities to meet and spend time together through the school.

This news is particularly meaningful for our school community because our students have had the privilege of meeting King Harald on several occasions. Most recently, our students welcomed him during the opening of the new Kavli building in Trondheim in December 2025. These encounters gave many of our students a personal connection to someone who has played such a significant role in Norwegian public life.

We are grateful for these memorable experiences and for the opportunity our students have had to meet the King and take part in moments of importance to our local community.

We will remember King Harald with respect and gratitude, and our thoughts are with Queen Sonja, the Royal Family, and everyone who is mourning his passing.

Warm regards,

Mrs Hitchman