What can we learn from Finland?

Finland might be a country of just under 5.5 million, but it also happens to produce the smartest, most well-rounded students. Part of the reason for this is that it chooses to focus on the promotion of teaching autonomy, creative learning, and equal ability classes.

1. There are no standardised tests In Finland, throughout the course of a child’s education, there is only one test that is mandatory – the matriculation exam – which comes at the end of vocational senior high school. With this system, teachers are trusted to do what they do best – teach. One reason why it is so effective is that there is a lack of competition that runs throughout a child’s schooling.

2. Teachers have to be highly qualified Teachers in Finland are selected from the highest achieving graduates. The top 10 per cent are drafted in to teach their children and are required to take a masters degree before they are allowed to step foot in the classroom. For starters, teachers in Finland have more respect within their society. As they have to go through the same length of training as doctors and lawyers, they are granted equal status.

3. Teachers have freedom In Finland, there is also a national curriculum, but there are neither set texts nor exams to test it. Teachers are given complete freedom as to how they teach what is in the curriculum. Another aspect of teaching in Finland is the cooperation among teachers. Collaboration is encouraged, and teachers regularly share their experiences and expertise.

4. Little homework Statistically, Finland issues a lot less homework to students than most countries do. Though it is a myth that there is no homework at all, most of the education happens in the classroom. Which is, after all, where you would expect it to happen.

5. Kids don’t start school until they’re aged 7 In Finland, although preschool is free for everyone, actual schooling doesn’t take place until the age of

6. The early years are focused on play, rather than academic learning. This is because at the age of five children don’t have the required motor functions to properly handle a pen, and other stationery. Play also helps develops creativity and form social skills through interaction with other children.

For more details, visit the website www.celsianeducation.co.uk/celsian-blog/what-the-uk-education-system-can-learn-from-finland