The Finnish education system is considered to be one of the best education systems in the world. Education in this country consistently outperforms the United States in reading, science, and math. Finland is consistently ranked best in the International Student Surveys (PISA) which have been conducted every three years since 2000.
Finland is consistently ranked best in the International Student Surveys (PISA) which have been conducted every three years since 2000.
Finland ranks 13th for PISA math scores, 4th for reading skills and 5th for science. In fact, Finnish schools have shorter school days than schools in other countries and do not run regular tests or exams.
The Big Think report published by the World Economic Forum (WEF) allows the Finnish education system to function well because its structure is supported by several fundamental principles: first and foremost, equal access to education and students have the freedom to choose their education according to their interests and talents.
Early childhood education
Finnish preschool education is designed around the concept of learning through play. Finnish children do not have to go to school until the age of 6, when preschool or preschool education begins.
Parents are free to spend their early years playing, teaching and bonding with their children. If parents want to start pre-school education, the Finnish system also offers a comprehensive pre-school care and education program (ECEC).
The program adopts a “learning by play” model to promote “balanced growth”.
There will be a fee, but parents will receive grants for the cost of PAUD education. Parents pay only about 14 percent of the total cost of education. The amount will be adjusted based on income and number of children.
The program is very popular there because the school enrollment rate for children between 3 and 5 years old is almost 80%.
Basic education
they offer nine years of training in individual structures for 190 days a year. Schools have ample space to revise and modify curricula according to the unique needs of their students.
Their stated aim for basic education is “to support students’ growth towards humanity and membership in an ethically responsible community and to provide them with the knowledge and skills necessary in life”.
This guide describes which tests to administer, how to assess student progress and needs, and even the ability to set daily and weekly schedules.
Teaching is a highly respected professional field in Finland. Most teachers have a master’s degree. Eighty percent of elementary teachers also participate in continuing professional development.
This level of continuous learning and development ensures that Finnish teachers are immersed in teaching.