EDUCATION

IN FINLAND
 Photo: Marek Sabogal / Business Finland Media Bank / Visit Finland
Content

O4 Equality of opportunity

O6 The Finnish education system

O8 Early childhood education

Photo: Visit Oulu

12 Comprehensive school

Finnish education is for all 16 Upper secondary education

2O

T
Future skills
he Finnish education system is built to encourage people to
freely choose their own life path. Every student – regardless
of socio-economic background or any other factor – is given 22 Professional teachers Free
equal opportunities for education. Support for individual learning is
there every step of the way.
Equal
Every country’s strongest asset is its human resources: people. But 24 Higher education
Quality
the rapidly changing world is constantly challenging the skills individu-
als need to have an active and meaningful life. Students need to have
resilience and skills to learn how to learn. 28 Opportunities for all
Education
Part of the Finnish formula for wellbeing is continuous learning and
a holistic approach to education, the seeds of which are planted in the
For all
preschool years when children are provided with the assistance they 32 Topical issues in Finnish education
need.
The future can be bright for education in Finland. We need to

Photo: iStock
Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland, 2024.
ensure that everyone has access to a high-quality education, but with
Text: Katja Pantzar
the right tools, we can address this and other challenges ahead. Production: Otavamedia Oy
Read more about Finnish education! Cover photo: Miika Kainu
 Equality of opportunity

General principles
in Finnish education

T
he Finnish education system is built on the Everyone in the student-centred system,
strong belief that a nation can only fulfil regardless of life circumstances or other factors,
its human and economic potential if every is given equal educational opportunities. This ap-
citizen is entrusted and given equal opportunities proach dates back to reforms made in the 1970s.
to find their own life path. The focus is not only on academic skills, but on
The policy of equal opportunity is supported supporting pupils and encouraging them to learn
by the fact that for the most part, education is by taking an active role in their studies.
free at all levels. Up to the age of 18, learning
materials, daily meals and transportation for THE IMPORTANCE OF WELLBEING

Photo: Sakari Piippo / Finland Image Bank

students living further away are free for students. Beneficial learning environments also care for
Also, higher education leading to a degree is free the basic physical, emotional and social needs of
for EU/EEA citizens. students and vice versa.
Trust is the foundation of Finnish society. We The emphasis is on finding learning methods
do not draw up lists of the best schools. In place that best serve each student and support those
of school inspections, there is self-assessment on who have challenges. Healthy learning happens
the part of the schools and teachers. Instead of through insight and encouragement, not grading
being an instrument for top-down control, school of performance or competition between students.
evaluations support the work of teachers and stu- The local school principle, which means that
dents stressing the importance of development the majority of children and youth can attend the
rather than monitoring. Trust and cooperation public school closest to their home, helps to foster
are key. a sense of community.

4 5
 The Finnish education system
THE EDUCATION SYSTEM IN FINLAND

DOCTORAL DEGREES

Equality in focus LICENTIATE DEGREES

8
8
(MASTER’S DEGREES)
Universities

C
ompared to the situation in some coun- make binding academic decisions at an early age. their mother tongue is not one of the official
tries, differences between schools in Fin- Compulsory education runs to age 18. languages (Finnish, Swedish or Sámi), they have

2
MASTER’S DEGREES MASTER’S DEGREES LIBERAL ADULT EDUCATION
land are very small. As equality is key in the Children spend less time in the classroom and a multilingual background, or their basic Finnish
Universities Universities of Applied Sciences Adult education centres
Finnish education system, the inclusive, high-quality have less homework compared to other countries. language skills are still developing. Folk high schools
education system is public, with very few private Starting with primary school, they have 15-minute The goal is to instil a joy of lifelong learning Work experience Summer universities
schools. Those that do exist follow the national breaks between classes to socialise with peers and in everyone. There are no dead-ends in the of 2 years Study centres
Sports institutes

3
core curriculum and receive all funding from taxes. be active, which helps with learning. education system and anyone can continue
BACHELOR’S DEGREES BACHELOR’S DEGREES
All schools in Finland are publicly funded. By In Finnish schools there are no standardised their education at any point, regardless of age Universities Universities of Applied Sciences
law, everyone has the right to a free education at tests or school inspections. or previous academic background, for example.
all levels. Education includes necessary support The education system is based on trust. That After comprehensive education, there are ARTS EDUCATION
for learning, school supplies and meals – all at no means that teachers, who are professionals of many different options for continuing edu- Architecture schools

5
lsory
Compu tion PROFESSIONAL DEGREES* Fine arts schools
extra cost. learning sciences, have a lot of autonomy in their cation from vocational and upper secondary *educaion Vocational institutions Handicraft schools
work. Their main focus is on helping every child to education into higher education at universities durat ars
e Media arts schools
to 18 yge •Specialised professional degrees
STUDENT-CENTRIC flourish. and universities of applied sciences. of a Music academies
MATRICULATION EXAMINATION •Professional degrees

3
Speech arts schools

4
3
Children start first grade at seven years old in a Instruction of Finnish as a second language The system is designed to support individual General upper secondary schools •Vocational qualifications Circus arts schools
flexible system where they are not expected to (S2) is available according to pupils’ needs if learning – every step of the way. Dance schools
Theatre arts schools

Finnish education highlights

1
PREPARATORY EDUCATION AND TRAINING

1866 1921 1943 1958 1971 1972 – 77 2015 2016 2021

1&2
First The act on The act of Compulsory A five-day A compre- Compulsory Latest reform Compulsory
elementary com­pulsory school meals education is school week is hensive preschool of the core cur- education BASIC COMPREHENSIVE EDUCATION

9
2
school act for edu­cation brings free- extended by implemented school reform education for riculum with age raised

ISCED classification
Finland*. ­covers all of-charge two years. (previously replacing the 6-year-olds. new skills and to 18.

EQF classification

Duration in years
­children aged lunches to 5 days + formerly competences
7–13 and gives schools by Saturday bipartite for the digital
PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION

1
a right to study 1948. morning). school sys- era.
in their ­­mother tem.

0
tongue.

0–6
EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE (ECEC)

*) [Link] *) Education is also organised as apprenticeship training and workplace internships.

6 7
 Early childhood education

All children under school-age have

a right to early childhood education
A gentle start for
and care (ECEC). The parents
decide whether or not their child
the school journey
I
participates in ECEC.
n Finland, early childhood education and Activity time is from 9 am to 11 am, with out-
care (ECEC) is provided as centre-based early door adventures, exercise, special arts and crafts
education activities organised in early education or trips depending on the day.
centres and as family-based childcare premises. After lunch together, the children, who are be-
“Our focus is child-oriented,” says Annika tween the ages of 9 months and 5 years old, have
­Pakarinen, an early childhood education and spe- nap time, while others enjoy quiet time listening
cial educational needs teacher in Vantaa, part of the to a story.
Greater Helsinki Region. Then, around 3:00 pm or 3:30 pm, the group
“Through play, a child can be a child, while the heads outdoors to the playground, before coming
joy of learning is instilled in a caring environment back indoors for the end of the day.
that is strongly grounded in pedagogy,” she says. Depending on schedules, some children are
picked up from the playground by their parents or
PLANTING THE SEEDS guardians, while other children are collected later
FOR LIFELONG LEARNING from indoors.
Each child has their own ECEC plan to ensure they
receive planned and goal-oriented education, guid- SUPPORTING LEARNING THROUGH PLAY
ance and care to support their individual needs. Whether outdoors navigating the terrain on a
Like all the teachers who work in the Finnish playground or indoors painting, children are
ECEC and pre-primary system, Pakarinen holds a actively honing their social skills and dexterity and
university degree. motor skills at the same time.
The Vantaa early education centre she works at “Our main focus is to genuinely be present for
is open from 6 am to 6 pm. There are two ECEC children and teach important life and school skills
teachers, two childcare workers and an assistant for through play,” says Pakarinen.

Photos: Miika Kainu

a group of 16 kids.
Each weekday starts with a shared breakfast, Follow this QR-code,
where children also learn everyday skills about to watch a video about
food education, table manners and interaction with everyday life in the Vantaa
others. early education center.

8 9
 Learning life skills and knowledge

P
rimary and lower secondary education education, religion or ethics, history, social studies, There are approximately 2,000 comprehen-
in Finland is the foundation on which music, visual arts, crafts, home economics and sive schools in Finland. All of them offer general,
everything in society is built. physical education. enhanced and special needs support for those
It supports pupils in their growth towards Pupils receive learning materials at no cost, a who need it.
humane and ethically responsible membership in free daily school meal, health and welfare services For children and youth who are newcomers
society and provides them with the knowledge and transport from home to school if the distance to Finland, a range of support is available such as
and skills needed in life. to school is more than 5 kilometres. preparatory education for those who don’t speak
LEARNING PEOPLE SKILLS Primary and lower secondary education in Fin- Every pupil is allocated a place in a nearby Finnish or Swedish.
In ECEC centres, children are taught land refers to the first nine years of comprehensive school, which helps to build a sense of community. The goal is to ensure that everyone has the
how to develop interpersonal skills vital school, from grades 1 to 9, which is intended for They can also choose another school, though with possibility for a comprehensive education that
for life. children aged between 7 and 16. some restrictions. sparks joy in lifelong learning.
Self-awareness, self-management, That foundation is built on equal access and
social awareness, relationship skills and inclusion.
responsible decision-making comprise Children and youth should have equal oppor-
what’s known as social-emotional learn-

Photo: Elina Manninen / Keksi / Finland Image Bank

tunity, regardless of socioeconomic background
ing (SEL).
or any other factors, to a free education in Finland.
A practical example of SEL is learning
how to practice empathy towards others
BUILDING BLOCKS
and oneself.
All schools in Finland follow a national core curric-
If children learn early on that their
ulum, which includes objectives and core contents
voices and opinions matter, it lowers the
of different subjects. The education providers –
threshold for participation in society.
most often municipalities as the local education
When SEL is taught and practiced,
it increases respect for agreed-upon authorities – and the schools themselves draw up
rules and trust in working together with their own curricula within the framework of the
others, and helps to prevent bullying. national core curriculum.
Subjects taught range from mother tongue
(Finnish, Swedish or Sámi) and literature to foreign
languages, mathematics, environmental studies,
biology, geography, physics, chemistry, health

10 Early childhood education 11

 Comprehensive school

A typical school day

“As the oldest of our school’s buildings was
once a church in the 1920s, I like to imagine what
people might have worn back then or how they
behaved as they sat in the pews,” says Adelin,
whose favourite school subject is history.
A fifth grader, Adelin lives with her parents and
her little brother and two little sisters. Their home
is near Sorila, as her school is affectionately called.
On average, Adelin’s school days are between
four and five hours long, which is typical for the
first six years of comprehensive school in Finland.
For younger children, those in grades 1 and 2,
there are organised after-school clubs and activi-
ties that mainly operate on school premises. The
idea is that children who are too young to spend
time alone after the school day have organised
activities while their parents are at work.

A SWEET SCHEDULE

I
n Tampere, Finland’s third largest city, Sorila On a regular school Friday, Adelin wakes up at
School is made up of three buildings, one of 7:20 am.
which is the picturesque Sorila schoolhouse. Her typical breakfast consists of bread with

Photos: Ilari Välimäki

The historic wooden building dates back to cheese and cucumber slices, some yogurt and a
1898 and has been renovated in recent years to glass of apple juice.
meet modern standards. She leaves for school at about 8:10 am, as
It’s a space that holds special charm for Adelin school starts at 8:30 am on most mornings.
Rannisto, 11, one of the comprehensive school’s Adelin makes the three-kilometre journey
students. to school by public bus, which takes about 20

12 13
 SUBJECTS TAUGHT IN COMPREHENSIVE SCHOOL

Mother tongue and literature

The other national language
(Finnish or Swedish)*
Foreign language
Mathematics
Environmental studies
Biology
Geography
Physics
Chemistry
Health Education
Religion or Ethics**
History
Social studies
minutes as it includes walking one kilometre to the The school yard is big, and right next to it Her favourite lunches include spaghetti with
Music***
bus stop. During the warmer months of spring and there’s a patch of forest, which Adelin says is meat sauce, vegetable soup and baked sausage –
autumn, she cycles to school which takes about 15 handy for orienteering as there’s no need to all of which are popular cafeteria classics through- Visual arts
to 20 minutes. travel far for activities, another of the hobbies she out Finland. Crafts
Occasionally, her father drives her to school on enjoys. On most weekdays after school Adelin has
Fridays. dance practice, but her Fridays are free and a cher- Physical education
Fridays are five-hour school days, and she has THE BEST THINGS ished activity is baking cookies with her friends. Home economics****
mathematics, crafts and social studies classes. “I like my school because it’s small, about 90 kids, “We just use whatever ingredients are on-hand
In the Finnish school system, for each hour of and everyone knows each other,” says Adelin. “As and come up with our own recipes,” she says.
instruction, there’s a 15-minute recess when the well, I’ve had the same teachers since I started
children go outside to play. school, so everyone is familiar and friendly,” she Follow this QR-code, *) Finnish and Swedish are the **) As a rule, pupils in ***) Students can also choose ****) Pupils receive guidance
official languages in Finland, comprehensive school receive elective subjects, including counselling intertwined with
“During recess, we often do cartwheels with adds. to watch a video
which is a bilingual country. religious education or secular additional language studies, other instruction and schoolwork.
my friends in the schoolyard,” says Adelin, whose Like school children throughout Finland, Adelin about Adelin’s ethics. artistic and practical studies or
hobby is dancing. receives a free warm lunch at school. school day. other courses offered by the school.

14 Comprehensive school 15
 Upper secondary education

Young voices and vocations

“W
e have a positive, relaxed atmos-
phere and good professional
teachers at our school,” says ­Elmeri
Meloni, 16, who attends the Helsinki Upper Sec-
ondary School of Natural Sciences.
Meloni is one of more than 150,000 students
enrolled (per year) in Finland’s general upper
secondary education system, which includes 378
educational institutions.
Nicknamed “Hellu,” Meloni’s upper second-
ary school has about 900 students, two thirds of
whom are in the general programme like Meloni,
while one third are in the natural sciences pro-
gramme.
In his second year at Hellu, Meloni chose the
school because it was familiar to him through his
older brother, who had attended, and as it’s locat-
ed a short walk from his family home.

TOGETHER
“When I started at this school in 2022, I didn’t In the upper secondary school system stu-
know anyone,” says Meloni. “And now, we’re all dents create their own schedules, that is the daily
friends.” timetable within each study period.
He credits the friendly atmosphere to the staff “I think it’s really good idea, as we learn

Photos: Miika Kainu

and other students. how to take responsibility,” says Meloni, whose
“Our teachers encourage us to ask questions favourite subjects are psychology, biology and
and talk about whatever is on our minds,” he says. English.
“And we have a good sense of humour at our Post-graduation, he plans to study economics
school, which helps to keep the mood upbeat.” at university, which could neatly complement his

16 17
 favourite pastime: going to the gym with friends “The best thing about vocational school is ­technology for making the job easier.
and coaching them as a personal trainer. that you get to challenge yourself mentally and “Not only are new work tools more ergonomic,
UPPER SECONDARY EDUCATION “It could turn into a career,” he says. While physically while learning hands-on about your lighter and easier to carry, 3D-modelling pro-
Compulsory education in Finland was Meloni is a digital native, he recognises the impor- own field,” says Linna. grammes make plumbing work easier by allowing
extended in 2021, which means that tance of human connections. Linna is working towards a vocational qualifi- us to see inside piping systems, for example,” he
all young people can study until they “Technology can do a lot of great things, but cation in building maintenance technology, to be says.
graduate from secondary education or when it comes to a coach or personal trainer, a a tradesperson who specialises in installing and Another vocational institution bonus, says
turn 18 years old. real person is invaluable,” he says. maintaining pipes and drainage systems. Linna, is the food served in the canteen.
General upper secondary educa- “We have good supportive teachers who are All students in the upper secondary education
tion provides an all-round education in LEARNING A VALUABLE TRADE experts in the field,” says Linna. system in Finland are served a free hot meal during
topics ranging from maths and natural Vantaa Vocational College Varia is one of the 159 the school day.
sciences to history, arts and culture, vocational institutions in Finland offering multi- PRACTICAL SKILLS
languages, biology, geography, physics disciplinary and practical vocational education to He’s currently doing a practical training at a large
and chemistry. young people, adults and organisations. office building in the Helsinki metropolitan area.
At the end of general upper second- Niko Linna, 17, is in the second year of studies Fixing complex plumbing systems in the
ary school, students take the national at Varia, where he’s training to become a plumber. office building is part of the job, and Linna credits WIDE-RANGING

Photos: Miika Kainu, Suvi-Tuuli Kankaanpää / Keksi / Finland Image Bank

school-leaving examination, the matric- VOCATIONAL OPTIONS
ulation exam, which gives eligibility for A major reform of vocational education
further studies at universities, universities in recent years has brought plenty of
of applied sciences and vocational opportunities for personalised continu-
institutes. ous learning, education and individual
Vocational institutes provide educa- guidance and support. The goal is for

Photo: Elina Manninen / Keksi / Finland Image Bank

tion and practical training for a specific every student to experience the joy of
occupation in fields including engi- learning and find their own place in this
neering, manufacturing, construction, world.
business and administration, health and The purpose of Finland’s vocational
welfare, arts and humanities. Vocational education and training (VET) is to ensure
studies can lead to a qualification or that every young person who graduates
post-graduate studies. finds employment or continues their
higher education studies.
As studies are free of charge, it helps
to raise the level of education and skills,
narrowing learning gaps and increasing
educational equality.
This means the learning journey can
continue at any time.

18 Upper secondary education 19

 Future skills
TRANSVERSAL COMPETENCE
[Link] AND
There are seven areas LEARNING TO LEARN
of transversal com- Learning to make obser-
petence. They refer vations, to seek, evaluate,
to the cognitive skills, [Link], edit, produce and share
INVOLVEMENT information and ideas.
meta-skills and oppor-
AND BUILDING A
tunities that underlie SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
the lifelong learning Learning about involvement,
paths and competence decision-making and responsi-
needed in studies, at bility in community and society.
work, in hobbies and
everyday life.
[Link] LIFE [Link]
COMPETENCE AND COMPETENCE,
ENTRE­P RENEURSHIP ­I NTERACTION AND
Developing interest in and SELF-EXPRESSION
a positive attitude towards Adopting culturally sustainable
work and working life and ways of living and acting in
entrepreneurship in society. a diverse environment.

Adapting to a changing world

A

Photo: Jussi Hellsten / City of Helsinki

s the world rapidly changes, so does Transversal competencies are part of the Transversal competencies are connected with
the skill set needed to navigate life and Finnish education system from early childhood real life needs and challenges such as how to man-
work. Students need to have resilience education through to higher education. The age daily life and live in a sustainable way. [Link] IN
and skills to learn how to learn. purpose of transversal competencies is to sup- Starting in early childhood education and care, INFORMATION AND [Link] CARE OF
Digital skills, AI skills, media literacy and port students’ abilities to learn and to be active the development of these competencies starts as a COMMUNICATION ONESELF AND
multiliteracy, environmental education, climate learners throughout their lives. natural part of everyday activities and play. In pri- TECHNOLOGY (ICT) [Link] ­M ANAGING DAILY LIFE
change and sustainability, democracy and Their aim is to foster curiosity and information mary and secondary education, these competen- Understanding ICT and its Developing skills in interpret- Caring for oneself and others,
human rights, and respect for other people acquisition and encourage students to take initi- cies are supported by planning of cross-curricular operating principles and key ing, producing and evaluating recognition and utilisation of
and interaction skills are as important as more ative and practice critical thinking using a range learning models or phenomenon-based learning. concepts, developing skills ­various kinds of text that help individual strengths and identity
traditional subjects such as mathematics and arts of forms of literacy while working independently Transversal competence has been formulated for using ICT productively. pupils to understand diverse construction.
and crafts. and with others. into the core curriculum. forms of communication.

20 21
 Professional teachers

TRUSTED PROFESSIONALS
Finnish teachers are trusted professionals
and innovators, who are encouraged and

Multiliteracy in em­powered to explore new approaches in

their work.

the digital era All teachers in Finland hold a bachelor’s

degree. Finnish teachers in primary education
and higher must hold a master’s degree in

“E
education or their specific field.
very teacher in the Finnish school system Teachers’ continuous professional learning
is a multiliteracy teacher as it’s part of and development is supported.
the curriculum for every subject,” says At the school level, teachers are seen as
Justus Mutanen, a chemistry and physics teacher developers of the school community and
at Vuosaari Upper Secondary School in Helsinki. school culture.
“Multiliteracy is not just a single subject.” In Finland, teachers are autonomous
Mutanen is currently working on a pioneering ­professionals with a great deal of freedom.
project using artificial intelligence and physics with Teachers are responsible for the assess-
his students, who are 16- to 18-year-olds. ment of their respective subjects. They follow
“Our pilot project is using an AI-tutor bot to the curriculum and its guidelines for the time
help students write a poster about energy and allocated for teaching lessons in different
energy production such as wind and solar power,” subject areas but have flexibility in choosing
he says. teaching methods.
As the role of advanced technologies such as THE SCIENCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA in their context and credibility, and understanding Technology is just one tool that supports
AI grows, so does the importance of understanding Another common example of multiliteracy and underlying biases, interests and motivations is a learning for today and tomorrow’s compe- Follow this QR-code,
to watch a video

Photos: Miika Kainu, Jussi Hellsten,

Riku Isohella / Finland Image Bank
how to use different forms of literacy. That range media literacy is a student bringing a science ex- critical skill. tencies.
includes traditional reading and writing, technolo- periment they’ve seen on a social media platform about teaching
gy and digital media, as well as visual literacy and to class. CONTINUOUS LEARNING multiliteracy
interpreting images and videos. These skills are in- “We then analyse the science experiment With the AI-tutor bot pilot, students and teacher
corporated throughout the Finnish system, starting together and go through whether the experiment are working together and gaining invaluable in-
from early childhood education and care. is actually accurate or not,” says Mutanen. “Can sight and research into how teaching and learning
“As I have 30 students, the tutor bot is like we trust the source? Who has compiled the video related to AI can be developed.
having an extra teacher on hand to help them and why?” “Teaching multiliteracy in connection with AI Follow this QR-code,
find information and check facts, which I can then Media literacy, understanding media rep- is also a new thing for me,” says Mutanen, who is to access an exhibition,
double-check,” says Mutanen. resentation, analysing messages and their sources also practicing lifelong learning with the pilot. which features eight
Finnish teachers.

22 23
 Higher education

TERTIARY EDUCATION
Finland offers top quality education, from
Lapland to Helsinki.
The Finnish take is bilateral, with two
different types of universities: universities
of applied sciences (UAS) and universities.
UAS offer professionally oriented

Building next
higher education at the bachelor’s and
master’s levels and have strong ties to

generation networks
working life and regional development.
Universities focus on scientific re-
search and offer bachelor’s, master’s and
doctoral (PhD) level programmes.

“I
chose Finland because it offers the best 6G INTERNATIONAL APPEAL
programme in the world,” says Safa Arif. Finnish higher education institutions offer
Arif, who was raised in India and hundreds of bachelor’s and master’s de-
Saudi Arabia, is a master’s student in the wireless gree programmes fully taught in English.
communication engineering programme at the International students tend to appreciate
University of Oulu. both the high quality and the practical
“This was a clear choice for me as few places orientation in the programmes, as well as
offer industrial 6G programmes and Finland is at the flexibility in building their own degrees
the forefront of 6G research,” says Arif. according to their interests.
The University of Oulu is just one of the 13 One of the appeals of studying in
universities and 22 universities of applied sciences Finland starts before arrival: the applica-
that offer more than 550 English-language bache- profession in one of the national languages, Arif’s thesis is on system-on-chip wireless tion process is very easy. Applying can be
lor’s and master’s degree programmes in Finland. Finnish or Swedish, in addition to English. systems, which she is carrying out while working done online, and it’s a very straightforward
It’s also possible to do postgraduate studies at Nokia, the Finland-based telecoms, IT and process. The residence permit regulations

Photos: Juha Niemelä

and complete a doctorate in English in Finland. A GOOD CONNECTIONS consumer electronics multinational. enable students accepted for degree
few universities of applied sciences have bilingual The University of Oulu’s 6G flagship pro- That mix of practical and academic learning studies in Finland to apply for a permit
degree programmes in fields such as nursing or gramme is the world’s first 6G research is beneficial, says Arif. straight away for the entire duration of the
tourism and hospitality. programme. Its goal is to build a sustainable “I’ve been positively surprised how the studies. The post-study permit policy is
The goal with these programmes is that and secure future society enabled by unlimited university evaluates your understanding and also generous in international comparison.
graduates will be able to work in Finland in their wireless connectivity. knowledge. Some courses have no exams and

24 25
 Aalto University Espoo
University of Helsinki Helsinki
Finland has University of Eastern Finland Kuopio
University of Jyväskylä Jyväskylä
13 universities and University of Lapland Rovaniemi
22 universities of LUT University Lappeenranta
­applied sciences University of Oulu Oulu
Hanken School of Economics Helsinki
­overseen by the University of Arts Helsinki Helsinki
­Ministry of Education Tampere University Tampere
University of Turku Turku
and Culture: University of Vaasa Vaasa
Åbo Akademi University Turku
National Defence University
(operates under the defence administration) Helsinki
Arcada University of Applied Sciences Helsinki
Rovaniemi Centria University of Applied Sciences Kokkola
Diaconia University of Applied Sciences Helsinki
Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences Helsinki
Humak University of Applied Sciences Helsinki
Häme University of Applied Sciences Hämeenlinna
Jamk University of Applied Sciences Jyväskylä
Oulu South-Eastern Finland University
of Applied Sciences Kouvola
Kajaani University of Applied Sciences Kajaani
Karelia University of Applied Sciences Joensuu
Kajaani LAB University of Applied Sciences Lahti
Lapland University of Applied Sciences Rovaniemi
others have open-book exams, so you ARCTIC LIFESTYLE ‘How can it be so thick that it’s safe to stand on?’” Kokkola
Laurea University of Applied Sciences Vantaa
don’t need to waste time memorising in- Finland is Arif’s first experience of Europe, as it’s The Northern Lights have also made a great Metropolia University of Applied Sciences Helsinki
formation that can easily be found online,” the first country she’s visited on the continent. impression on Arif. Also known as Aurora Borealis, Oulu University of Applied Sciences Oulu
she says, adding, “I’m actually learning Oulu is located in the northern part of the natural phenomenon appears as dancing lights Vaasa Satakunta University of Applied Sciences Pori
Kuopio
Savonia University of Applied Sciences Kuopio
things for real life!” Finland, near the Arctic Circle and Lapland. over the night sky in a range of colours such as Joensuu
Seinäjoki Seinäjoki University of Applied Sciences Seinäjoki
Arif, a student tutor who guides new Though it has four distinct seasons, Finland’s far green, red, violet and blue. Tampere University of Applied Sciences Tampere
students through orientation, has a clear north is known as a winter wonderland. “I can actually see them from my porch,” Jyväskylä Turku University of Applied Sciences Turku
vision of what she wants to do following “I love the snow and am embracing the says Arif. Vaasa University of Applied Sciences Vaasa
graduation. elements with activities such as skating,” says Novia University of Applied Sciences Vaasa
Högskolan på Åland
“With a strong focus on the human side Arif. “I still find it surreal that the water freezes Follow this QR-code, Pori Tampere
(Åland University of Applied Sciences) Maarianhamina
of technology, I want to help and encour- over. My family back home in Uttar Pradesh, to watch a video Police University College (operates under
Hämeenlinna Lahti Lappeenranta
age other young women in the industry India can’t quite believe that it’s possible to walk about Arif’s studies Kouvola the mandate of the Ministry of the Interior) Tampere
and ensure that it’s a safe space,” she says. or skate on the sea during winter. They ask me: at the University of Oulu.
Turku Vantaa
Espoo
Maarianhamina Helsinki

26 Higher education 27
 Opportunities for all

schools, sports institutes, summer universities and

Embracing study centres. They all receive state funding.

Adult education centres offer opportunities for

a culture self-initiated education and development of civic

skills such as personal communication skills and

of lifelong
cultural and political awareness.
Folk high schools provide full-time studies, as
well as non-formal studies for young people and

learning adults in general education and vocational educa-

tion and training.
Summer universities emphasise open university

L
education as well as continuing education for
iberal adult education, as it’s called in those who already hold degrees.
Finland, is based on the idea that lifelong National or regional sports institutes are based
learning supports wellbeing, equality and in boarding schools that provide full-time edu-
active citizenship. cation, but also promote athletics and wellbeing
Learning at every age and stage of life is for the whole population alongside training and
actively encouraged and supported, with the goal education that supports sports organisations and
of access for all. elite athletes.
Each year, liberal adult education institutions Study centres are national institutions that

Photo: ElinaManninen / Keksi/ Finland Image Bank

organise more than 100,000 courses and pro- organise education both independently and
grammes that range in length from a few hours to together with civic and cultural organisations to
an entire academic year. further lifelong learning and active citizenship.
Topic categories range from the humanities For newcomers to Finland, there’s a range of
to business administration, natural sciences, engi- practical course offerings including basic reading
neering and transportation, along with health and and writing lessons in the country’s national lan-
physical education, tourism and hospitality. guages Finnish, Swedish and Sámi, for example.
Courses and programmes are designed to All five forms of lifelong learning are com-
meet local and regional needs. plemented by the excellent public library system
throughout Finland.
SEVERAL WAYS The goal is that everyone should have the
TO CONTINUALLY DEVELOP SKILLS opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills
There are five types of liberal adult education required to function in society and be able to
establishments: adult education centres, folk high influence matters.

28 29
 Inclusive education

Photos: Laura Dove / Helsinki Partners, Jussi Hellsten / Visit Helsinki, Maija Astikainen / City of Helsinki
E
very child should be accepted and support- With the common goals of the curriculum, learning. Common forms of aid include remedial
ed as they are. each teacher can choose which methods and teaching in small groups or part-time special
The Finnish school system aims to materials they will use to encourage each student. ­e­ducation. In most schools there are special needs
provide each student, regardless of background or For example, teachers can design activities teachers and assistants.
abilities, with the support needed to thrive. that match children’s attention spans and use While there are challenges in creating a learn-
The starting point is a child’s strengths and helpful tools such as balancing cushions or stools ing culture that works for everyone, the goal is
needs related to learning, development and for physically active children. clear: equal opportunities for everyone ensure the
wellbeing with solutions provided in communal Pupils have the right to receive support for best possible outcomes.
learning environments.
This is written into the official legislation with
the Finnish Basic Education Act, adopted in 1998,
which provides three tiers of support: general,
intensified and special.
General support means individual pedagogical
solutions, as well as guidance and early interven-
tion given as part of daily school life. Enhanced
support provides personalised assistance as part
of a multi-professional collaborative effort. Special
needs support, if needed, is created through a
customised educational plan for the student.

ALL TOGETHER
The Finnish Basic Education Act represents the
unique Finnish approach to inclusion in education
as it emphasises the responsibility of all teachers
to deliver solutions within the system at the local
level.

30 Opportunities for all 31

 Topical issues in Finnish education

­­
active breaks help the learning process and estab-
lish lifelong habits that promote wellbeing through
an active lifestyle.
Another central theme is participation and
involvement in building a sustainable future.

Modern

Photos: Ilari Välimäki, Pasi Markkanen / Finland Image Bank,

Learning to understand the significance of
protecting the environment through personal rela-

learning
tionships with nature is nurtured by learning about
involvement, decision-making and responsibility in
community and society.

opportunities The goal is to empower students of all ages

TAMK, Jussi Hellsten / City of Helsinki

with the skills and competences needed for creat-
ing a good life – now and in the future.

F
inland has the goal of being an interna-
tionally attractive place to study and do
research.
Finland plans to invest 4 percent of its GDP
in research and development by 2030, putting
it among the top of OECD countries. Based
on 2021 OECD data, Finland ranks third after
Israel and South Korea in terms of investment in
education.
As the world changes, educational systems
need to evolve in order to provide everyone with to adult education – include a range of initiatives continue through primary and lower secondary
the skills needed now and in the future. Factors and programmes. education, into upper secondary education,
from the climate crisis to aging populations and Multiliteracy and media literacy education post-secondary and lifelong learning.
artificial intelligence and digitalisation are chang- aims to strengthen competences in information The goal of national action programmes such
ing the nature of life and work. and communications technology (ICT) and pro- as Finnish Schools on the Move, for example, is
vide tools and skills for understanding different to establish a physically active culture in compre-
FORWARD THINKING types of media. For example, programming skills hensive schools by implementing ways to increase
Topical areas of focus at every stage of the Finn- are introduced early in childhood education and physical activity during the school day. Promoting
ish educational journey – from early childhood care. Multiliteracy and media literacy lessons active commuting and encouraging physically

32 33
 Embracing challenges

T
he strengths of the Finnish education take care of the growing need for assistance, information is readily available to everyone?
system are learner-centred teaching especially among young people. Would a better function of education be learn-
methods, highly educated teachers, and “And at the university level, for example, the ing the ability to critically process information
flexibility within the education system to rapidly assumption is often that adult students can take and being able to discuss it with others?”
adapt to new technologies. care of themselves and find needed resources,
Yet, as the world changes, the educational but that’s not always the case,” she says. ECO-SOCIAL SUSTAINABILITY
system needs to evolve in order to provide fu- Going forward, the best way to achieve sus-
ture skills. That means anticipating and respond- EDUCATION 2.0 tainable economic growth and wellbeing is by
ing to challenges, says Sari Miettinen, a project In Finnish, there’s a concept called “sivistys”, a mobilising everyone’s competence and talents.
specialist with the Finland Futures Research guiding principle in Finnish education and cul- That requires helping people to better under-
Centre (FFRC) at the University of Turku. ture, reflecting the value placed on being knowl- stand the role of the future by differentiating
edgeable, wise, ethical and culturally attuned. between skills for the future and future skills,

Photo: Jussi Hellsten / Visit Helsinki

EQUAL SUPPORT FOR ALL “Perhaps it’s time to consider an update, says Miettinen.
“In theory, anyone in Finland should have the sivistys version 2.0,” Miettinen continues. “What “The former means we try to anticipate
opportunity to be able to study for a PhD,” says does sivistys mean today? We need to reconsid- what skills are needed in a certain future, for
Miettinen, “but in reality, there are still hurdles to er the function of higher education. Have some example, what skills will industries need within
overcome in order for that to be true. sectors become siloed? What about utilising di- 1-5 years? The latter, futures skills, means skills
“We need to ensure that everyone has access verse skills and talents that may be different, for needed in order to make sustainable decisions
to education and the support services that help example, academic or occupational qualifica- for the future. The goal of education should be
them to learn. That means allocating resources tions from other countries? Should we reassess to look even further into a sustainable future,”
and support services, as teachers alone can’t the purpose of education now that so much she says.

34 Topical issues in Finnish education 35

 Did you know?
In Finland, there is such a thing as a free lunch. Finland was
the first country to start serving pupils a free daily hot meal,
in 1948, and continues to do so.

The views expressed herein are solely those of the authors.

E-mail: vie-50@[Link]
For free reference use.