See and experience Finnish education
We had the privilege to host an enthusiastic and experienced group of education experts from Greece last week. They were keen on learning from and be inspired by the innovative practices in Finnish education and academic cultures in Finland.
During the first day we shared great discussions about trust in education and society, the importance of practical subjects in the holistic development of children, different teaching approaches and methods and much more. We also got to learn how school life works in Harjuniitty school. It was a special time for a visit as the children were enjoying the first snow of winter.
This Greek group visited Vatiala School in Kangasala. The visitors were particularly interested in the multifunctional spaces of the modern school, which was built in 2020. For example, there are sliding doors between two classrooms, which conveniently enables team teaching. Corridor areas are also effectively used as learning spaces.
On Wednesday, we observed the activities of the nature-based daycare group. The group spends time outdoors in all weather conditions and visits the nearby forest weekly to play and build with natural materials. Even the youngest, four-year-olds, ride their bikes to daycare and know how to ski and skate!
The group visited Toivio comprehensive school which is a “green flag school” and focused on sustainable development. The school atmosphere was very warm and our guests were positively impressed by the collaboration between 6th graders and preschoolers. They are having a so called “godparent program” where the older child creates a bond between the younger one by helping out with some everyday tasks or by reading books out loud. Also the school has great special support practices and the teachers work together with the families when it comes to pupils’ wellbeing and behaviour.
During the lecture on educational support, we discussed the differences in the roles and job descriptions of school psychologists and school social workers. We also talked about creating an open and respectful atmosphere and its importance for the well-being of student and staff, as well as for the acceptance of diversity. Finally, we considered the pros and cons of school uniforms and why they haven’t been part of Finnish school culture. It is always refreshing to reflect on and question why we act the way we do, and to consider the similarities and differences in school practices across Europe.
On the last day of this study tour, we got a very warm welcome from Sanna, the head of school and Anna, the language teacher at Hakkari school. We visited the amazing JOPO (Flexible basic education) class of 12 grade 9 students and their two teachers. BTW, this class of students has been filmed on a TV series which will be broadcasted next year – how exciting!
The impressive thing about Finland education is the amount of trust between teachers and children. Children have been raised to be autonomous from early on, so they react with high responsibility during their school life. This creates an equal and trustful environment that promotes learning, wellbeing and equal opportunities for all.
Great experience! Lovely to visit schools. Happy kids. No stress environment. Similarities with my point of view for pedagogy. Learning by doing is the core of the community development. Excellent collaboration with Learning Scoop. Kiitos! Thank you!
We shared a similar understanding that even though we cannot copy paste education from one country to another we can learn from each other and get great ideas from different innovative schools around the world. Thank you for your trust, interest towards Finnish education and passion for making impact in education in Greece. We enjoyed the time with you to the fullest!
Efcharisto!
