Please note that generally, a maximum of 10 to 15 people can participate in the daycare visit, depending on the size of the daycare.

Playgrounds

Lohikäärme

Themes and topics: language learning, student welfare, open early childhood education and family work. Playground Lohikäärme provides language teaching and opportunities for language learning for pre-schoolers and primary school pupils. They also look after children while their mothers attend a language class.

Daycare centres

Ahti

Themes and topics:  child's personal learning plan for early childhood education/pre-primary education, group portfolio (in early childhood education), reading, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction.

Our daycare is situated in the lovely area of Vuosaari in east Helsinki. Nearby, we have sea, lots of forest and other natural elements. The children in the daycare are aged 1 to 5 years old. We have many children who speak two or more languages, with over 50% of them having a native language other than Finnish.

We have a total of about 50 children in four different groups. Currently, we have four kindergarten teachers, five nurses, and three special assistants for certain children. Additionally, we share a multilingual instructor for Somali language with three daycare centres. Learning Finnish is one of the main features of our daycare.

Auringonkukka

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, phenomenon-based learning, inclusion, learning environments, Finnish/Swedish as a second language. Preschool is located in the same building.

Daycare Auringonkukka, Sunflower in English, is a municipal day care center in the City of Helsinki. It was founded in the Viikki district in 2002. Auringonkukka provides day care and pre-primary education services. Auringonkukka is open weekdays between 6.15 am and 5.30 pm.

Viikki is a relatively new neighborhood. The construction of the area started in the early 1990s and is continuing today. Initially, the core idea of the Viikki area was to incorporate new experimental and ecological architecture. The construction of Auringonkukka is a result of an open architecture contest and is based on ecological, functional and communal values.

The Viikki campus of Helsinki University, known as the green campus, visibly influences the area. Fields, forested areas, and the university’s agricultural landscape surround Auringonkukka. We can apply diverse pedagogy, as children’s groups can easily explore the nature, and well-functioning public transport enables the trips around the city of Helsinki.

We have approximately 90 children at Auringonkukka, divided into six child groups. Groups are formed based on the children’s age and their needs. Each group has its own classroom, and the groups share a dining area and several multi-functional rooms. The pedagogy at Auringonkukka is child-centered and based on national and local curriculums emphasizing communal values.

Our staff consists of a head, 7 kindergarten teachers, part time French teacher, 1 special education teacher, 8 kindergarten nurses and 1 personal assistant. We also

operate as a practical training day care center for kindergarten teacher students from Helsinki University and for nurses from vocational schools in Helsinki. Auringonkukka welcomes visitors from all around the world and participates actively to different development projects.

Helsinki city strategy, A Place of Growth, guides education with positive aims and is visible in pedagogy and actions in Auringonkukka.

Helsinki City Strategy | City of Helsinki

Domus (swedish speaking unit)

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, sustainable development, learning environments. Preschool is located in the same building.

Hiekkalinna

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, literacy/media literacy, Finnish/Swedish as a second language instruction.

Our daycare is situated in the lovely area of Vuosaari in east Helsinki. Nearby, we have sea, lots of forest and other natural elements. The children in the daycare are aged 1 to 5 years old. We have many children who speak two or more languages, with over 50% of them having a native language other than Finnish. 

We have a total of about 50 children in four different groups. Currently, we have four kindergarten teachers, five nurses, and three special assistants for certain children. Additionally, we share a multilingual instructor for Somali language with three daycare centres. Learning Finnish is one of the main features of our daycare.

Humikkala

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, sustainable development, learning environments, Finnish/Swedish as a second language.

Kamppi

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, phenomenon-based learning, inclusion, student welfare, learning environments, preparatory education. Preschool is located in the same building

Daycare Kamppi was founded in 1991. We have 70 children divided into five child groups.

Our team of educators consists of 

• four early childhood education teachers, including two preschool teachers
• three professional teachers for children with special needs in early childhood education, including the deputy head of the centre. Two of them working in the integrated special group and one working in whole department consulting and supporting. 
• seven practical nurses and one special needs assistant
• one person working in the kitchen and one cleaner

Daily Program

At Kamppi, we value play and the joy of learning, as well as safe and committed adults. The atmosphere at Kamppi is positive, with an emphasis on encouraging and providing warm care for the children. We work in small groups and play outdoors twice a day. The preschool groups work closely with our partner school, Ressu Comprehensive, which is located nearby.

Each group goes on trips and excursions in central Helsinki. We visit art museums and take advantage of the parks in the area. We use public transport to get to forests and various locations in Helsinki.

Cooperation with parents is important: daily conversations, discussions on the child’s early childhood education plan, and parent meetings. From time to time, we also arrange meetings where the parents can discuss and have a say in important matters.

Development of play and learning environments is important. Play is a tool for thinking and learning: the children can modify how, what, and where they play according to their own interests. We encourage children and allow their play to continue as long as possible. Small play groups are used to support learning and growth, especially in the integrated special group. Adults also join in the play from time to time to be present for the children. The joy of play connects the adult and the child, the joy of play is the joy of life!

Our goal for the 2023 is increase equality and parity, and also prevent bullying. Through their own actions and by modifying the learning environment, adults ensure participation and equality for all children. The role of the adult is to ensure that everyone feels a sense of belonging to a group.

Kanava

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, phenomenon-based learning, sustainable development, nature pedagogy and nature activities, student welfare, learning environments, preparatory education, cooperation between pre-primary and comprehensive school. Preschool is located in the same building.

Daycare Kanava is the largest provider of nature pedagogy education in Finland (part of Luonnossa Kotonaan – At home in nature –network). We have ten groups, which include four pre-primary groups. The children are aged 1-6.  

Our emphasis as a setting is on Nature, Exercise and Play. We meet every child with a sensitive approach and take time to get to know every child as an individual. Learning through play is at the heart of our pedagogy, and much of the learning is adapted to take place in nature. Uutela nature reserve area, with a varied topography and the Baltic Sea, is located next to us.

The ‘Luonnossa Kotonaan – At home in nature’ network is like Forest School networks in Europe and elsewhere: participating groups adhere to a certain ethos and rules, for example going out in every type of weather, using natural resources in play as much as possible, and giving children unhurried time to play in nature.  

The majority of Kanava staff have received training in nature pedagogy; through research and personal experience, we are aware that playing outdoors promotes imagination, encourages physicality, improves social development, supports problem solving skills and reduces stress. Kanava professional have access to a large network connection including museums, libraries, sports centers, religious institutions, public health centers, family health centers, multi professional units for Special Needs children and their families, Finnish as a second language teachers, and multilingual assistants that communicate with recently immigrated families.

We communicate with families, both in bi-yearly meetings to discuss their children’s development, and daily at the nursery gate. Each child has an Early Learning Plan that is based on observations on the child’s interests, play, and social network. The plans are documented and assessed yearly.  

Guidance also in Swedish.

Kankarepuisto

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, literacy/media literacy, Finnish/Swedish as a second language, preparatory education. Preschool is located in the same building.x

Daycare Kankarepuisto is a bright and modern multi-purpose building located in Jakomäki.

Daycare Kankarepuisto operates in the “Jakomäen sydän” (Jakomäki Heart) -service building, which also houses Kankarepuisto Comprehensive School, Jakomäki Youth Center and playground Kankarepuisto. We implement the "village educates" principle together with the school, playground and youth centre, creating a safe learning path for children from infancy to adolescence. We have access to new, adaptable, and flexible teaching spaces that enable diverse teaching and learning methods

In daycare Kankarepuisto we have around 200 children and about 50 staff members. The pre-school groups work together with the Kankarepuisto comprehensive school, which operates in the same building. Nature is an important learning environment for us. In Jakomäki we have the privilege of enjoying unique nature - a nature reserve and numerous forests are just around the corner.

Teaching Finnish as a second language is very actively integrated in our everyday life. We use pictures and supporting materials and different languages and cultures are visible in our everyday activities. To support the inclusion of children and families, our unit also has a Russian-speaking multilingual instructor.

Play and playful learning environments are at the core of our activities. Our activities are diverse, and with an active approach we offer children experiences in nature and art, for example. Diverse teaching methods allow children from different backgrounds to be involved in the activities.

The staff is also diverse, which helps to support children's identity and helps to understand and make different cultures visible. A Russian-speaking multilingual instructor is particularly helpful in supporting the integration and inclusion of Russian-speaking families and children.

The daycare also has a needs-based teacher that operates outside of the staffing ratio. The needs-based teacher’s role is to support the work of other teachers and pedagogical practices.

Guidance also following languages: Spanish.

Korento

Themes and topics:  child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, bilangual education, sustainable development, literacy/media literacy, learning environments, STEAM, Finnish/Swedish as a second language, preparatory education.

Kukkaniitty

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, phenomenon-based learning, sustainable development, sport pedagogy, teacher cooperation.

Daycare Kukkaniitty's new facility was recently built to replace the old building, providing an excellent environment for children to play, grow, and learn. The daycare building is designed on the idea of shared spaces, still having a “home base” for every group. This gives a great opportunity for us to use co-teaching as an asset on our everyday learning.  

We share the building with Swedish speaking daycare Blomängen. Daycare Kukkaniitty, along with daycare Vartiokylä, forms a daycare unit. At Kukkaniitty we have 84 children in six groups, from ages one to five. We have our own play yard that encourages exploring and play, fostering the development of motoric skills and imagination. The daycare is located in the green East Helsinki, where nature and forests are just a few steps away. This gives us a great opportunity for outdoor learning and play.  

In daycare Kukkaniitty we cherish our warm and sensitive atmosphere where everyone can be themselves and feel safe and welcome. We wish for every child to have an experience to learn through joy and to feel seen every day. We value everyone’s unique self, and our aspiration is to make everyone feel appreciated as they are.  

Lauttasaari

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, inclusion, learning environments. English-enriched pre-primary education.

In Daycare Lauttasaari, opened in 2020, we provide early childhood education and pre-primary education services for children aged 1-6. With approximately 160 children organized into 11 groups, we are part of the English-enriched pre-primary education programme. Our daycare has two floors, and we share the building with the Swedish speaking Daycare Drumsö. Our staff includes early childhood education teachers, early childhood education nurses and special needs assistants, a special-education teacher, a daycare centre manager and a deputy manager.

Daycare Lauttasaari is situated among the nature of the Lauttasaari island. This natural landscape is also reflected in our outdoor play and learning environments. Our indoor learning environments include two gym/assembly rooms, an arts and crafts workshop and a library. We also make use of the forests, beaches, playgrounds, sport grounds and library in the area. We benefit from excellent bus and metro connections, allowing us to integrate Helsinki City’s libraries, museums, playgrounds, and other resources into our learning environment.  

Our daycare emphasises the importance of play in learning and supporting a child’s social and emotional growth. We want to foster a warm learning community where the child’s strengths are the focal point. A clear daily structure provides safety and routine for the child to grow. We see the child as an active participant in the planning, evaluation, and development of the day-to-day activities.  

Leskenlehti

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, phenomenon-based learning, inclusion, learning environments, Finnish/Swedish as a second language. Preschool is located in the same building.

Meri

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, sustainable development, phenomenon-based learning, inclusion, literacy/ media literacy. Preschool is located in the same building.

Welcome to daycare Meri. We provide early childhood education and pre-primary education services for children aged 0-7. With approximately 275 children and 51 dedicated staff members, we prioritize each child’s unique needs and strengths. Through personalized early childhood education plans, crafted collaboratively with parents, we ensure systematic education and care.

In our inclusive environment, every child is encouraged to express themselves, fostering a positive self-image and sense of accomplishment. We believe in active learning, where children engage with others and their surroundings, shaping their growth and development. Our learning environments are co-designed with children, and we enjoy Helsinki city’s resources to enrich experiences and promote holistic learning in our daycare.

At our daycare center, we are dedicated to fostering a supportive community, empowering children to learn, grow, and thrive.

Muksulaakso

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, sustainable development, language learning, positive pedagogy, Miniverso, inclusion.

Daycare Muksulaakso provides a wonderful environment for over 50 children, aged 1 to 5, organized into 5 different groups and supervised by 13 educators. We are particularly proud of our positive pedagogy and the "See the Good" method, both of which are used daily in our daycare.

In Daycare Muksulaakso, we offer activities that support a child's development and strengthen their social skills in collaboration with parents/guardians. Our approach is based on positive pedagogy, creating conditions for positive interaction and a warm, child-friendly atmosphere.

We have been participating in the Erasmus+ accredited consortium of Helsinki city, and have visited several schools in Europe. The educators have enthusiastically brought new ideas and perspectives to Muksulaakso from their learning mobilites.

Nätholmen (Swedish speaking unit)

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, sustainable development, evening care (in shift care groups), learning environments, nature activities.

Pacius

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, sustainable development, language learning, inclusion, positive pedagogy, Miniverso.  English-enriched pre-primary education.

Daycare Pacius provides a wonderful environment for our 130 children, aged 1 to 6, organized into 9 different groups, and supervised by 35 educators. We are particularly proud of our positive pedagogy and the "See the Good" method, both of which are used daily in our daycare.

In daycare Pacius, our mission is based on positive pedagogy, emphasizing the importance of play, joy, and a safe atmosphere in everyday life. In our big house, we learn to consider others and to appreciate each other. We invest in diverse activities both indoors and outdoors, we value especially ecological action.

We have been participating in the Erasmus+ accredited consortium of Helsinki city, and have visited several schools in Europe. The educators have enthusiastically brought new ideas and perspectives to Pacius from their learning mobilites.

Pacius warmly welcomes all international and national visitors!

Guidance also in following languages: German.

Pihlaja

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, bilingual education, special education, mathematics in early childhood education. Pre-primary education unit is located in the same building. Guidance also in Swedish.

Poutapilvi

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, Finnish/Swedish as a second language, literacy/media literacy, sustainable development, inclusion, phenomenon-based learning, bilingual education. Preschool is located in the same building.

Roba

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, learning environments.

Daycare Roba is located in the heart of the Punavuori neighborhood in the centre of Helsinki, designed specifically for the youngest city dwellers. Our premises extend across six floors, with one floor dedicated to the Swedish-speaking daycare Roban. We share a small gymnasium and an art room. Outdoor activities are held in our daycare's courtyard, and we also enjoy outings to parks nearby. With approximately 170 children ranging from 1 to 5 years old, our daycare offers a vibrant environment for early childhood development.

At our daycare, we believe that every child's play, singing, and storytelling lead to a world of wonders and learning experiences. Here, playing is not only encouraged but also nurtured. We prioritize creating an environment where every child can feel, experience, try, and explore. Through our activities, children not only acquire new skills but also learn to interact and form friendships with their peers.

At Daycare Roba, we believe that playing is how children naturally learn and have fun. Our days are filled with play activities designed for small groups, where children explore and interact with their surroundings. Teachers and caregivers join in the play, guiding and encouraging the children. We adjust our learning environments based on what the children need and like. We regularly talk about the importance of play in our daily routines and always prioritize the needs and opinions of the children. Working closely with parents is important to us.

Creating safe boundaries: We help children develop social and emotional skills appropriate for their age. We value children's thoughts and wishes when planning our activities.

We have gatherings, morning and afternoon circles, and evaluate activities together. Our activities focus on equality, fairness, and inclusion.  Our friendly atmosphere encourages humor and teamwork. We support our staff's learning through training sessions and discussions about teaching methods. We explore different cultures and languages with children, looking at our environment's cultural heritage and languages. Children's home cultures, languages, and celebrations are part of our daily life

At Roba, we welcome everyone with joy. Here, everyone can be their own unique selves.

We can provide different language guides to our daycare if necessary. 

Ruskeasuo

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, bilingual education, early childhood special education, mathematics in early childhood education. Pre-primary education unit is located in the same building. Guidance also in Swedish.

Suomenlinna

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, learning environments. Preschool is located in the same building. 

The daycare Suomenlinna is located on the beautiful Suomenlinna island. It was founded in 1924 in - Semenov House (Linnanportti). However, during the war years, the daycare activities faced challenges, leading to operations being conducted at various places. In 1990, the daycare relocated to its current premises and its activities there.

Currently, our daycare accommodates 45 children who are organized into 3-4 groups: Day Flowers, comprising children aged 1-3 years, Swallows, consisting of children aged 3-5 years, and Cowberries, the pre-school group for 6-year-olds. Our team of educators includes 3 kindergarten teachers and 4 nursery nurses. Additionally, there is 1 staff member assigned to work in the kitchen and 1 cleaner responsible for maintaining cleanliness.

In early childhood education and pre-school education, we cherish community spirit and immersive experiences surrounded by nature and the sea.

In our daily program, we provide both care and education. Children learn through play, research, excursions, various experiences, and experiments. The themes of our learning areas are integrated and tailored to the children's interests and abilities, allowing them to develop skills and make independent choices. Additionally, we collaborate with the nearby comprehensive school and the library.

Topelius

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, sustainable development, inclusion, literacy/media literacy. Preschool is located in the same building.

Daycare Topelius is located in Taka-Töölö (at the city centre of Helsinki), near the sea. It is easy to get to because of good transportation connections. We are in an apartment building, on the first two floors. Our learning environment is colorful, and it encourages children to play and explore. We love playing outside in Sibelius Park. It's a fun place where kids can move around and play different games. At Daycare Topelius, our teachers make sure it's a safe and playful place for everyone. We focus on what the children like to do, and we make sure everyone feels heard and understood.

In our daycare, we have four groups: two for kids aged 1-4 downstairs, and two preschool groups upstairs. One preschool group also includes some 5-year-olds.

Daycare Topelius is a cozy and supportive place for kids to grow and learn. We do activities together and explore our neighborhood on trips. We teach kids about taking care of the environment through something called the Fox model. It helps children understand how to look after the world around them. We all take care of each other.

We have 56 children (5 groups, 1-6years), 2 preschool teachers, 2 preschool nurses, 3 early childhood education teacher, 2 early childhood nurse, 1 early childhood education assistant, 1 early childhood special education teacher

Troolari

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, children with multiple disabilities and their learning environments, student welfare.

Vartiokylä

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, language learning, sustainable development, phenomenon-based learning, Finnish/Swedish as a second language, preparatory education, teacher cooperation; early childhood and pre-primary education. English-enriched pre-primary education. Preschool is located in the same building.

Daycare Vartiokylä is a homebase for 120 children aged one to six. We are organized into 10 groups, including three pre-school groups. Currently, we operate in a temporary building while awaiting the completion of a new daycare–school complex scheduled for 2027. We use our building based on the idea of shared spaces, still having a “home base” for every group. This gives a great opportunity for us to use co-teaching as an asset on our everyday learning. Daycare Vartiokylä along with daycare Kukkaniitty, forms a daycare unit. The daycare located in the green East Helsinki, where the nature and forests are just a few steps away. This gives us a great opportunity to learn and play outdoors in the nature.

In daycare Vartiokylä we cherish our warm and sensitive atmosphere where everyone can be themselves and feel safe and welcome. We wish for every child to have an experience to learn through joy and to feel seen every day. We value everyone’s unique self, and our aspiration is to make everyone feel appreciated as they are.  

Vellamo

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, Finnish/Swedish as a second language, literacy/media literacy. Preschool is located in the same building.

Our daycare is located in the beautiful neighborhood of Vuosaari in East Helsinki. Surrounded by the sea, lush forests, and other natural wonders, our location offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities. We have a diverse community with many children who speak two or more languages. In fact, over 80% of our children have a native language other than Finnish. Our children range in age from 1 to 5 years old, and we currently have three groups totaling about 45 kids.

To support our children's growth and development, we have a dedicated team of professionals. This includes three kindergarten teachers, four nurses, and three special assistants who provide additional support to certain children. Additionally, we have a multilingual instructor who teaches Somali language across our three daycare centers.

Virkkula

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education,  learning environments, phenomenon-based learning,  sustainable development and recycling (green flag action), literacy/media literacy, inclusion, Finnish/Swedish as a second language. Preschool is located in the same building.

Themes and topics:  

Daycare Virkkula was established in the 1930s in the Kruununhaka district of downtown Helsinki. The daycare operates in two adjacent buildings: Alatalo houses two groups for 1-3-year-olds, as well as a part-time outdoor activity group, while Ylätalo hosts a group for 3-5-year-olds and a preschool group. The daycare is open from 7:15 AM to 5:15 PM and accommodates approximately 90 children in total. Our team of educators consists of six early childhood education teachers including two preschool teachers, one professional teacher for children with special needs in early childhood education working in whole department consulting and supporting, eight practical nurses and two special needs assistants.  

We use the entirety of Helsinki as a learning environment. Excursions are made to parks, forests, and cultural services such as museums, libraries, and events. We spend time outdoors in almost any weather, both in the mornings and afternoons.

Free play and guided play are integral parts of every day and are key to thinking and learning. All the skills needed in life develop through play. We encourage children to develop good social skills and acts of compassion while also strengthening their positive self-image. In the groups, children's initiatives, wishes, and needs are taken into account age-appropriately. In the preschool group, children's interests and "I would like to learn" goals guide activities and phenomenon-based learning. We have close collaboration with Kaisaniemi lower primary school throughout the preschool year.

We want to create a warm, trusting, and positive atmosphere in our daily interactions with children and parents. We strengthen the sense of community between homes and the daycare through shared events. Such events include sports activities, spring recycling events, and celebrations. In the groups, we implement a pedagogical portfolio, which is typically sent to parents on a weekly basis.

Vironniemi

Themes and topics: child's personal learning plan for early childhood education, pre-primary education, phenomenon-based learning, sustainable development, literacy/media literacy. Preschool is located in the same building. 

Daycare Vironniemi was established in the 1960s in the Kruununhaka district of downtown Helsinki. Currently, it operates in temporary premises in Kaisaniemi Park in the city center of Helsinki. We have two groups for children aged 1-2, one group for 3-4-year-olds, one group for 5-year-olds, and a preschool group. There are approximately 100 children in total. Our team of educators consists of five early childhood education teachers including a preschool teacher, one professional teacher for children with special needs in early childhood education working in whole department consulting and supporting, eleven practical nurses and two special needs assistants.

We use the entire city of Helsinki as a learning environment. Excursions are made to parks, forests, and various cultural services. We spend time outdoors in almost any weather, both in the mornings and afternoons. Free play and guided play are essential parts of our daily program, and are key to thinking and learning. All the skills needed in life develop through play. We encourage children to develop good social skills and acts of compassion. Each year, a theme is chosen together with the children at the daycare, which is explored and investigated through drama and various art forms.

We want to create a warm, trusting, and positive atmosphere in our daily interactions with children and parents. We strengthen the sense of community between homes and the daycare through different events together.

Aurinkolahti Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: language learning, learning environments, STEAM.

Aurinkolahti comprehensive school was established in 2001. We currently have more than 930 pupils spread across three school buildings. In our school we have primary school classes 1-6 for pupils aged 7-12 and lower secondary school classes 7-9 for pupils aged 13-15.

The school is situated in eastern Helsinki, in Vuosaari. Vuosaari has a population of about 40 000 people, and there are four comprehensive schools in the area. Aurinkolahti is rather new district in Vuosaari, development in the area began in 2000s and is still ongoing. Aurinkolahti is known for its beautiful maritime and natural scenery, making it great location for outdoor activities accessible by car and public transport.

Over 30 per cent of the pupils come from immigrant backgrounds. The school has eight special needs classes, and inclusive arrangements are made within the school. Additionally, there are 70 pupils with special support who have been integrated into general education.

Pupils begin their studies in a foreign language in the 1st grade. They can choose between three languages: English, French or Swedish. In the 3rd grade pupils have the opportunity to start their second foreign language studies. The options for the second language are Spanish, English, Swedish, or German. In the 6th grade, all pupils begin studying Swedish. By the 8th grade, pupils can choose another foreign language, either Spanish or German.

The basis of our work at Aurinkolahti Comprehensive School includes:

• Teachers collaboration with each other in pedagogical and pupil related matters
• Teachers working in teams at least once a week, each is led by a designated teacher. Notes are written in Onedrive for everyone’s use.
• Teachers engaging with parents through meetings, the Wilma webinterface and other organized activities

Jätkäsaari Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: phenomenon-based learning, inclusion, learning environments.

Jätkäsaari is a recently developed urban area in Helsinki, situated near the West Harbour. Jätkäsaari comprehensive school was established in 2017, and the new school building was opened in 2019. We are a comprehensive school with grades 1-9. Jätkäsaari school boasts modern facilities and learning environments.  

The school has experienced significant growth over the years, expanding from offering Grades 1-2 in 2017 to encompassing Grades 1-9 by 2021. Enrollment has steadily increased, with over 850 students and 60+ teachers as of 2023. The number of pupils continues growing, and Jätkäsaari is expanding its capacity to accommodate more pupils.

The school follows a Phenomena-based approach to learning and inquiry-based education. The school year is divided into five thematic units, with breaks in between. These five themes are:

• Safe Society
• The World of Cultures
• Thinking Science
• Story Time
• Nature Challenge

We prioritize inclusivity and have integrated two special education groups. We are continuously developing practices to address various special needs. Technology plays a significant role in our daily life and learning. We actively participate in numerous development projects. Additionally, we are a language-aware school and participate in the Language Enrichment Program (EEP). 

Katajanokka Primary School

Themes and topics: inclusion, language learning, literacy/media literacy.

Katajanokka Primary School is a public school for students in grades 1-6, as well as one special class. We have around 215 pupils enrolled.

Here's how we learn at our school: We follow Helsinki's curriculum along with our own school-specific curriculum, which are based on the national curriculum. Our teaching is guided by the goals outlined in our school's curriculum. This includes what subjects we study, how we work, and how we support our pupils.

We focus on developing broad skills, and each year we explore at least two different topics, or "phenomena," to make learning relevant to our pupils' everyday lives.

In grades 1-6, most lessons are taught by the class teacher, except for foreign language classes which start in 3rd grade and are taught by language teachers. Additionally, we have support from special education teachers, Finnish as a second language teachers, resource teachers, or school attendance assistants working alongside the class teacher.

Our school provides textbooks and other learning materials free of charge, chosen by the school itself. Languages at Katajanokka Primary School are taught as follows:

English is introduced as a foreign language starting from 1st grade (A1). Optional foreign languages (A2) such as Spanish and French can be chosen starting from 3rd grade. Swedish is taught as a second domestic language (B1) starting from 6th grade. In our school, if at least 12 pupils express interest, a Spanish or French A2 teaching group is established. 

Kruununhaka Lower Secondary School

Themes and topics: arts education, language learning, student welfare, assessment of learning, learning environments.

Kruununhaka Lower Secondary School is situated in the very unique historic center of Helsinki, originally founded in 1899, and underwent renovations in 2021. We have currently approximately 510 pupils aged 13 to 16 in grades 7-9. There are about 45 teachers in total: 40 subject teachers, three special education needs teachers, one special class teacher and 2,2 student counselors. In addition, we also have one school assistant, a school nurse, a psychologist and a school social worker.

At our school, we offer three different fields of emphasized study: music, dance and design. In the music program the focus is on the rich variety of different music styles from different cultures and historical periods. We have a school orchestra, various bands and a school choir and we organize different performances during the whole school year. In the dance program we offer our dance students possibilities in performing and creating dance and appreciating their own movement. The design program combines visual arts and crafts with special emphasis on design concepts.

Our teachers work in four teams, and our main focuses are students’ well-being, grouping activities and participation, culture and arts education and pedagogical development (including e.g. learning-to-learn skills, promoting reading motivation, language awareness and special needs and differentiation strategies).

Our language of instruction is Finnish. In addition to this, every student study Swedish and at least one foreign language (English, French, German or Spanish).

Guidance also in following languages: German, Italian, French, Swedish 

Lauttasaari Primary School

Themes and topics: bilingual education, language learning, student welfare.

Lauttasaari Primary School, established in 1954, the complete renovation of the school building was completed in April 2022, including a beautiful school yard. Our school provides education for children aged 7to 13, in grades 1-6. We have 620 pupils and 50 staff members working in our school. Our newly renovated building has few special classes: music, sports, and crafts.

Instruction at our school is conducted in Finnish, with the exception of the Swedish immersion program and English-enriched education. The school offers four different foreign languages: English, French, Spanish and German.

We have a class for children with special needs (aged 7-13), known as the “anchor class”. This class has its own special education teacher and an assistant teacher.

One of our main focuses is the well-being of the children. We work closely together with parents, and we have very active group of professionals, who work with children (school psychologist, social worker, school nurse and special education teachers). We teach social and interaction skills systematically to children in each grade.

Guidance also in following languages: French, Spanish and German

Malmi Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: bilingual education, language learning,student welfare, assessment of learning, learning environments, STEAM, preparatory education.

Merilahti Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: inclusion, student welfare, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction, preparatory education.

Merilahti Comprehensive School was established in 2017 through the merger of Meri-Rastila School and Kallahti Comprehensive schools. We have about 800 pupils in classes 1 to 9.  Nearly 60% of the pupils have an immigrant background, with a significant portion of them from Somalia. We have 8 special needs classes and moreover we integrate pupils with special needs support into general education classes.  

We are located in a nice and naturally beautiful eastern part of Helsinki, Vuosaari, and surrounded by excellent sports facilities in a community of nearly 40 000 iinhabitants. We are located on two school buildings, Kallahti unit and Jaluspolku unit.

Kallahti unit (address: Kallvikinniementie 1, 00980 Helsinki)

In Kallahti unit we have grades 1 to 2 and 5 to 9.  

Jaluspolku unit: (address: Jaluspolku 3, 00980 Helsinki)

There are over 200 pupils at grades 1-4.

Merilahti school  receives additional funding to reduce the class sizes, for organizing simultaneous teaching and for preventing pupils dropout rates. Regarding languages, English, Swedish and French are available for study starting from first grade. If one so chooses, German, Spanish or Russian language can be studied on the eighth and ninth grades. Swedish becomes compulsory from sixth grade onwards. Also, Russian and French are introduced by the form of a club to smaller pupils on the second grade.

Teachers collaborate in various initiatives (eg. a special leaflet with guidelines on how to maintain a calm environment in a classroom), they also work in teams to enhance the coordination and support.  

Disagreements among students are addressed through multiple methods. Firstly, a system is in place where pupils negotiate resolutions independently. Secondly, students are required to call their parents in the presence of a teacher to discuss misbehavior. Thirdly, there's a program designed to prevent bullying.

Finnish is taught as a second language for pupils on the upper classes. Class sizes are kept small in upper grades. The curriculum emphasizes teaching in the matters of nature and science and experimental. Students are actively involved in the student board, with older pupils leading games for younger ones during breaks. Parents are engaged through separate meetings, including those for pupils with immigrant background and morning coffee sessions with the principal. We also emphasize learning outside of the school premises (Facebook site for unofficial informing, trips to Paris and Berlin which the school pays for the pupils who study the language in question, sports camps for pupils who have chosen extra sports at school)  

Paloheinä Primary School

Themes and topics: inclusion, literacy/media literacy, student welfare.

Paloheinä Primary School is a comprehensive lower-level school, founded in 1985. We educate 440 pupils, grades 1 to 6, ages 7 to 12. We have 30 teachers and 10 school assistants, a school nurse, a psychologist, and a school social worker. The school has two special needs classes for pupils with extended compulsory education, with inclusive arrangements in general education classes. Moreover, 90 pupils receive enhanced or special support in general education.

The school is located in northern Helsinki, in Paloheinä, a rather traditional residential area. The school is surrounded by natural sites and offers possibilities for outdoor sports and outdoor learning. The teaching language is Finnish, pupils can also study Swedish, English and French. Our school does extremely well in different national studies focusing on learning and students’ mental, social and physical well-being.

The basis of our work

We respect childrens’ and adults’ well-being, good manners, and community spirit. Well-being is supported by functioning everyday activities and clear activity patterns for different situations. Our key values are persistence, responsibility, kindness, fairness and respect.

Teachers work both independently and in various different teams.  Good cooperation between home and school is the foundation for children's well-being and learning. Teachers collaborate with parents through meetings, the Wilma Web-interface and by organizing other activities. The parents' association and the class committees organize activities that support communality and well-being in collaboration with various partners in the region. 

In Paloheinä school we are prepared to introduce you to, for example:

• making sure students learn the basic information and fundamental student skills
• strengthening the student's well-being through communality and participation (class meeting model)  
• high-quality cooperation and child support during the transition from kindergarten’s preschool to primary education  
• education and afternoon activities for children with intellectual disabilities, inclusion in the entire school community  
• teaching reading and literature, media skills
• strengthening the relationship with nature and learning outside the school building
• strengthening learning, thinking skills and well-being through the subject of Crafts: hard and soft materials  
• well-being during recess: models that strengthen mental and physical well-being such as recess clubs and students as play-leaders 

Pihkapuisto Primary School

Themes and topics: phenomenon-based learning, inclusion, sustainable development, language learning, literacy/media literacy, student welfare, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction.

Pihkapuisto primary school was established in 1988, our school underwent renovations in 2000. We have approximately 250 pupils in grades 1 to 6, ages 7 to 13.

Our staff comprises 18 teachers in total: 12 class teachers, 2 teachers in special needs classes, an English teacher, a French/English teacher, and a special education teacher. Additionally, we have two teaching assistants, a school nurse, and a school social worker, no psychologist is currently on staff.

Diverse in culture, our school represents over 30 different ethnic backgrounds. Students whose native language is not Finnish learn Finnish as a second language. English instruction begins in first grade, with Swedish introduced in sixth grade. Furthermore, students have the option to study French or Swedish starting from third grade.

The school is located in a beautiful setting surrounded by forest and natural environment, conveniently only 10-minute walk from Malminkartano railway station.

During breaks, students enjoy the nearby park with a playground, a sports field and plenty of space to play and recreation. Our school places a strong emphasis on environmental studies. Classes frequently venture outdoors to study, observe, and appreciate nature. Additionally, we actively participate in waste sorting and recycling initiatives, as well as strive to conserve energy whenever possible.

Two pupils from each class attend student board meetings, which occur approximately once a month. During these meetings, students plan and organize events for the entire school, such as pop-up school days, sports events, or talent shows. Additionally, we have a peer-mediation program in place. Specially trained students mediate and resolve conflicts and disagreements among their peers.

Puistopolku Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: inclusion, robotics,  Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction. Education task arts and sports (cooperation with The Finnish Olympic Committee).

Puotila Primary School

Themes and topics: student welfare, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction, preparatory education. Preschool is a located in the same building.

Roihuvuori Primary School

Themes and topics: phenomenon-based learning, inclusion,  literacy/media literacy, learning environments, STEAM, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction.

Roihuvuori Primary School was founded in 1967. There are 350 pupils situated in two school buildings. There are lower stages from 1 to 6, ages 7 to 13.  

The school is situated in a nice, naturally beautiful suburban area in the eastern part of Helsinki. Roihuvuori area is built in late fifties, and it is one of oldest suburb areas outside of the city downtown.  
 

The basis of our work at Roihuvuori Comprehensive School:  

• Teachers collaborate with each other in pedagogical and pupil´s matters
• Teachers work in teams at least in two times a week. Each team has a leading teacher.  
• Teachers collaborate with parents: meetings, the Wilma web interface and organizing other activities
• We have a deep sense of belonging and a goal of a school community that considers all pupils and staff.  Our slogan is Together we are more.

We are developing good learning using technology. We are familiar with Phenomenon Based Learning and Progressive Inquiry Learning. For Pupils´usage we have iPads and Laptops and we use Boyd when necessary. We Co-operate with University of Helsinki.

As for languages, English studies starts for all at grade one and French as a voluntary language in the third grade. Compulsory Swedish studies begin on the sixth grade. Also languages are introduced by the form of a club to smaller pupils on the second grade.

Finnish-speaking children in language immersion classes (3 clesses)  largely study in Swedish. In grades 1-2, only a couple of weekly lesson hours are taught in Finnish, but the share of instruction in Finnish grows as children move on to higher grades. The first foreign Language is always Swedish in language immersion classes. Language immersion instruction starting in 1st grade is offered at six schools in Helsinki 

Siltamäki Primary School

Themes and topics: phenomenon-based learning, inclusion, bilingual education, sustainable development, literacy/media literacy, assessment of learning, student welfare, learning environments.

Siltamäki Primary School is located in northern Helsinki, in a scenic area. Our school has about 300 pupils (grades 1-6) and we have total of 35 teachers and other staff members. The strengths of our school culture include 21st century education, a strong professional Finnish school system, an innovative and child-centered well-being culture, a collaborative leadership and teamwork culture, and a modern learning culture including a digital and phenomenon-based learning and a modern assessment culture.

At Siltamäki we provide basic education in a safe and caring learning environment. Together with parents and other stakeholders, we create our school community called 'Our Siltis/ meidän Siltis'. Siltamäki Primary School is a safe local school where attentive adults support our students' growth, development, and well-being in the best possible way.

Solakallio School

Themes and topics:  visualized and safe learning environment, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), education for autistic and mentally disabled pupils who need very strong support in daily routines, communication, and behavior.  

 One of the 5 special schools in Helsinki, Solakallio is dedicated to serving 54 children with autism and intellectual disabilities. We provide education for children aged 7-15, offering a basic education for pupils whose compulsory education spans 11 years. Solakallio employs a school-specific curriculum designed to support students who experience difficulties in independently planning and executing daily routines or tasks, as well as in communication and social interactions.  

VETO - Guidance for Intensive Special Support (Vaativan erityistuen ohjaus)

As a school of VETO teachers, our goal is to address the challenges emerging from the field: by strengthening collaboration and interaction among various stakeholders, sharing expertise, developing learning environments and materials, and refining different methods. Crafting and assessing various pedagogical documents are our areas of expertise. Establishing and utilizing uniform practices require time and opportunities for collaboration. We support other schools by showcasing learning environments and tools, offer consultation, and share information about the training provided by our school.

Taivallahti Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: bilingual education, language learning, student welfare. 

Our school is a comprehensive primary school with primary school grades 1-6 and lower secondary school grades 7-9, located on the shores of Taivallahti in Etu-Töölö, close to the city center. Our school values diversity and appreciates different types of learners. We also have students with extended compulsory education enrolled in grades 1-9. The majority of our 736 students come from Etu-Töölö and its surrounding areas.  

We have a long-standing tradition of Swedish language immersion education, and since 2018, we also offer English language enrichment education from first grade to sixth grade. Additionally, as an elective, you can study Spanish, German, and French. Our school has partner schools in Germany and Spain, and student exchanges with them are organized annually. From our school, you'll depart proficient in languages, ready to face the world!

Taivallahti Comprehensive School is a forward-thinking and diverse institution. We inspire each other to learn and grow. At our school, teachers and students cherish the joy of learning, collaborative learning, an experimental approach to teaching development, and genuine involvement of students and parents. Through the collaboration of students, families, and school staff, we create a supportive and safe atmosphere for learning. At our school, everyone can be themselves and develop in the best possible way.

Currently, our school is located in temporary premises at Arkadiankatu 24 and Hiekkarannantie 6. There are plans to return to our own building on Eteläinen Hesperianadulle in early 2025.

Our school offers special programs:

• language immersion studies (Swedish and Finnish)
• language enriched studies (English)
• early language learning (German or English)
• special needs classes

Guidance also in following languages: Spanish, French, German.

Töölö Primary School

Themes and topics: inclusion, bilingual education, student welfare.

Töölö Comprehensive school provides primary education (grades 1-6) to pupils ages 7 to 2. The school has Finnish speaking classes and bilingual Finnish-English classes, where 25-50% of the content is taught in English. There are also two classes for special needs pupils who are also integrated into general education classes. In total, the school has 439 pupils.

School curriculum includes Finnish as a mother tongue and Finnish Literature, English, French (optional), Spanish (optional), Swedish (6th grade), Mathematics, Natural and Environmental Sciences, Religious Education or Ethics, History, Music, Crafts, Visual Arts and Physical Education. Finnish as a second language is taught to pupils who need support in their Finnish language.

The school has a principal, two vice principals, 29 teachers and three assistants. Also, the school has a school nurse, one social worker and a school psychologist. Töölö Comprehensive school hosts student trainees from Finland and Europe, and is also active in an Erasmus teacher exchange programme. In 2022, our school started an Erasmus + accreditation programme for EU mobilities and courses for teachers. Teachers collaborate, co-teach and work in teams (each team is represented in the school leading team).

Situated near the Helsinki city center, the school is surrounded by Sibelius Park and Töölö Bay, and is close to the National Opera. Our school's mission is to guide and support our students' learning and growth in a safe school environment so that they acquire good fundamental knowledge and skills in interaction with others and the environment.

Our mission statement is: think, act together, and take responsibility.

Key objectives

• Social and co-operative peer skills, preventive and anti-bullying program
• Active pupil participation and pupil council activities  
• Integrated and inclusive learning
• Digital learning

Other objectives

• Active co-operation with parents' association  
• Erasmus+ program and accreditation program

Vallila Primary School

Themes and topics: sustainable development,literacy/media literacy, student welfare, assessment of learning, STEAM, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction.

At Vallila Primary School, there is a strong culture of collaboration. We provide a safe and inspiring environment for growth and learning, where student agency, meaningful learning, and the joy of learning are supported. Students are encouraged to be curious and engage in creative activities.

The Vallila Primary School is a traditional school that has been operating in Vallila since 1902.Our school is the oldest school in Helsinki, which has been located in the same school building since its establishment. Our mission is to provide a nurturing and stimulating learning environment for students from grades 1 to 6. There are approximately 450 students at the school. The emphasis of the school is on skill and art subjects.  

Our values

At Vallila Primary School, we prioritize values that promote academic excellence, inclusivity, and personal growth, while also emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive school environment where everyone is seen and heard every day.  

We are an arts and skills-oriented school. Students have the opportunity to express themselves and experience art and cultural activities.

Our values include:

• Respect for all individuals
• Collaboration and teamwork
• Diversity and cultural appreciation

Academic Programs

We offer a comprehensive academic curriculum designed to meet the needs of every learner.  

Our programs include:

• We follow the Finnish national curriculum.
• Finnish, English, Swedish and France language teaching
• Arts and skills-oriented school
• We offer STEAM learning inclusively within the context of subjects.
• Special education services and support for diverse learners

We actively engage as part of our surrounding community and actively develop cooperation between home and school. We have various extracurricular activities where parents play a significant role. 

Vattuniemi Primary School

Themes and topics: bilingual education, sustainable development, literacy/media literacy, student welfare, learning environments.

Vattuniemi primary school is a new comprehensive school, founded in 2020. We have 500 pupils spanning from grades 1 to 6, ages 7 to 12. The school has one special needs class, and inclusive arrangements are implemented throughout the school. The school’s size is expected to increase to about 600 pupils in the next few years. Daycare Meri operates in the same building. The school and the daycare Meri work closely together.  

The school is situated in western Helsinki, in Lauttasaari. Lauttasaari area has about 24 000 inhabitants and three comprehensive schools, two for lower stages and one for upper stages 7 to 9. Lauttasaari is an older district, it is currently undergoing development, with new apartments being constructed in the coming years. Lauttasaari is known for its maritime charm and picturesque surroundings, offering great opportunities for outdoor recreation. Moreover, Lauttasaari is accessed easily by both public transport and private car.

Pupils begin studying a foreign language in 1st grade. They can choose between three languages: English, Spanish or German. In 3rd grade, pupils have the opportunity to start their second foreign language studies. The options for the second language are Spanish, English, French or German. In 6th grade all pupils begin to study Swedish.

Teachers collaborate with parents through meetings, the Wilma web interface and by organizing various activities.

We at Vattuniemi Comprehensive School focus on:

Collaborative school culture, well-being, sustainable development,  student participation, language-enriched teaching (finnish-english), and  joy of learning.

We have ilexible learning spaces where pupils study using the facilities appropriately and in a variety of ways. Teachers plan, implement, and evaluate teaching together. The entire city of Helsinki is used as a learning environment. Every pupil is offered the necessary support in their own neighborhood school. 

Daycare Meri operates in the same building. The school and the daycare center work closely together. 

Vesala Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: inclusion, bilingual education, student welfare, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction.

Vesala Comprehensive School is located in the district called Kontula, eastern Helsinki. We have about 1000 pupils, grades 1 – 9, including 9 special education classes, Finnish-English classes and nature and science emphasis.

Our school has a principal, two vice principals, around 80 teachers and 14 teaching assistants. In addition, school has an active welfare group: two school nurses, one school doctor (visits monthly), one and a half social worker as well as two school coaches.

Our pupils have over 40 mother tongues and pupils speaking Finnish as a second language comprise close to 60% of the total student body. Our multicultural and multilingual community is something we are very proud of. We are part of Erasmus+ partnerships and wish to provide a chance for all the pupils to get involved with cultural exchange. For instance, we have a very popular pupil guide program for visitors.

Vuoniitty Comprehensive School

Themes and topics: literacy/media literacy, student welfare, preparatory education, robotics, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction, VR and AR technology.

Vuoniitty Comprehensive School, located in Vuosaari –eastern Helsinki, is a comprehensive school with grades 1-9.  We opereta in three campuses. The Heteniitty and Koukkusaarentie campuses are located a few hundred meters apart, while the Venemestarintie campus is just under 2 km away. Classes 1-4 are taught at the Heteniitty and Venemestarintie campuses, while classes 5-9 are taught at the Koukkusaarentie campus. Some pupils from the Heteniitty campus are currently studying in temporary premises on Lohikäärmeenpolku. In total, Vuoniitty Primary School has slightly over 1000 pupils, and approximately 120 staff members.

At our school, specialized instruction is provided in music and media classes. Admission to specialized instruction is based on suitability testing, which is held during the spring semester. Specialized music instruction begins in the third and seventh grades, while media emphasis starts in the seventh grade.

Classes 1–6 have their own teacher who teaches the majority of the lessons. Subject teachers teach classes 7–9 and are partly responsible for teaching classes 1–6 as well. In addition to their own teacher, pupils may work with a special education teacher, Finnish as a second language teacher, resource teacher, or teaching assistant. Pupils receive textbooks and other learning materials free of charge from the school, which the school selects itself. Electronic learning materials are used in addition to other learning materials.

We have 90 minutes lessons, and our focus is on:

Helsinki as a learning environment, Digital learning environment, Emotional and interaction skills lessons, Cultural competence, ”Culture Path”, all pupils visit every year different cultural events, Participation, every pupil belongs different participation groups, Learnig-to-learn skills, Well-being, Interaction, student association, Transversal competences (skills that are integrated all subjects), Learning environment (ICT competences, outside school building, Assessment

Alppila Upper Secondary School

Themes and topics: sustainable development, language learning aof the student's learning and competence, student welfare, learning environments
Guidance in following languages: Japanese, Spanish, French, German, Arabic

Alppila Upper secondary school was originally founded in 1959 and at the moment has a recently renovated school building that provides a great environment for our 795 students and about 50 teachers. We are particularly proud of our science and arts classrooms and the music studio that are all in daily use in our school.

Alppila Upper Secondary school is part of the UNESCO Associated School Network and active in the Baltic Sea Project. The school has Erasmus+ accreditation and is known for its international projects. To receive and to give tours to visitors there is a group of international student ambassadors at school who are not only experts in upper secondary studies but also well informed about the Finnish educational system in general.

Alppila Upper secondary has Global Citizen study module that consists of eight inter-disciplinary study units. The study units include topics such as global media, climate change, economy and migration. 

Brändö gymnasium Upper Secondary School (swedish speaking unit)

Themes and topics: literacy/media literacy, student welfare, special educational task sports. 

Brändö gymnasium is an upper secondary school with specialization in sports. Our school's motto is "Training for life". We are a school that focuses on making the time in high school a real experience for our students and giving everyone a safe environment where they can grow and learn. Our language of instruction is Swedish.

We have a Brändö spirit that means we care about each other and no one is left alone. We are a school that focuses on student participation: everyone is seen and noticed. We are a school with a pleasant and positive atmosphere.

We want to invest in reading and the ability to critically analyze different forms of media, and in the well-being of students.

Our sports line offers the opportunity to combine top-level sports with studies, flexible study arrangements, sports-related support services and courses in e.g. exercise science, sports psychology and nutrition. Welcome to Brändö gymnasium.

Etu-Töölö Upper Secondary School

Themes and topics: language learning, assessment of the student's learning and competence, the participation of students, student welfare, learning environments, entrepreneurship, teamwork,student involvement

Etu-Töölö Upper Secondary School is a non-graded upper secondary school in the heart of Helsinki, the capital of Finland. We are an academic-oriented school with around 800 students aged 16-19 with a focus on entrepreneurship and cultural knowledge.

We emphasize the active role of the students in acquiring, processing and applying information because we believe that one of our most important objectives is to make our students form a structured view of the world.

We teach our students to find answers to wh-questions (what, where, why and when), taking advantage of the possibilities of information technology, information networks, web-based learning platforms as well as methods of problem-based learning.

With our active student body, dedicated tutor students and with our extensive student counselling system, we encourage our students to have a very strong sense of community and become responsible members of society. We also have partner schools abroad involving cooperative projects, school visits and student exchange programs.

Guidance also in following languages: Swedish, German, French, Spanish 

Helsinki Upper Secondary School of Languages

Themes and topics: bilingual education, language learning, learning environments.

Helsinki Upper Secondary School of Languages (Helsingin kielilukio) was founded in 1967 under the name of Itäkeskus Upper Secondary School. The name was changed in 2014. A new school building located in Myllypuro was inaugurated in August 2023. The new premises of the school are designed to promote and facilitate a positive and open learning environment for all the students.  

The school enrols over 800 students aged 16-19 and employs approximately 60 teachers. Helsinki Upper Secondary School of Languages emphasizes languages and internationality, knowledge of cultures, arts, sustainable development, and future skills.  

In addition to Finnish, the school offers the possibility to study 13 different languages, (i.e., Swedish, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Latin, Russian, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic and Korean).

Helsinki Upper Secondary School of Languages prepares students for further education, employment, and active civic participation with an entrepreneurial mindset. The curriculum comprises three study lines: a general program, a language and internationality program, and an English-Finnish language program. All these programs are aligned with the Finnish matriculation examination.

Helsinki Upper Secondary School of Natural Sciences

Themes and topics: student welfare,  school building built according to sustainable development model, language learning, STEAM, cooperation with Finnish Meteorological Institute, cooperation with university, special educational task mathematics and natural sciences, wellbeing and participation.

Helsinki School of Natural Sciences is a public, non-graded upper secondary school providing general upper secondary education with a focus on science. In autumn 2023, the school moved to a brand-new, wooden building on the Kumpula campus of Helsinki University, a campus that is dedicated to research and teaching in the exact natural sciences.

The studies lead to the national school-leaving examination (the matriculation examination) and give eligibility for further studies at institutions of higher education provided by vocational colleges and institutions intended for matriculated students, polytechnics, and universities. The school collaborates with the university especially in natural sciences.  

Helsingin luonnontiedelukio, nicknamed Hellu, has a staff of about 60 teachers and more than 950 students, one third of whom are in the science programme and two thirds in the general programme.

The school was founded in August 1999 as a result of the merger between Käpylä Upper Secondary (established in 1874 as a public school in the former Finnish town Vyborg, Russia) and Meilahti Upper Secondary School (founded in 1944 as a private school). The first school building in Käpylä was constructed in 1973 and designed by Aarno Ruusuvuori as an office building but rebuilt for school purpose in 1998-99.

Guidance also in following languages: French, Italian, German, Swedish. 

Mäkelänrinne Upper Secondary School

Themes and topics: student welfare, learning environments, special educational task sports (cooperation with The Finnish Olympic Committee).

Mäkelänrinne is a non-graded general upper secondary school, and one of the 13 sports upper secondary schools in Finland. We were the first school in Finland that started to experiment with the non-graded system as early as 1972.

The school atmosphere is motivating and open, and the relationship between teachers and students is warm and informal. The students are 16-19 years of age, the majority of Mäkelänrinne students come from Helsinki and the vicinity, but the school also attracts students from other parts of the country.

At Mäkelänrinne, students have great freedom in designing their own study programs and schedules. They have the felxibility to decide on the duration of their studies and arrange their daily timetables within each study period. This customization allows the students to tailor their studies to meet both their academic and athletic requirements, fostering a sense of responsibility for their own learning and studies.

The sports associations have welcomed this opportunity to raise new generation of promising young athletes. Each year the number of applicants exceeds the number of places available. The correlation between the course grades and the Matriculation Exam results is good, and academically Mäkelänrinne stands clearly above the national average. The teachers face a dual challenge: how to cater for the needs of the academically-minded top students, and how to help the young athletes combine their educational and athletic goals.

Stadin AO, Helsinki Vocational College and Adult Institute

Themes and topics: sustainable development, competence, student welfare, inclusion, preparatory training for an upper secondary education, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction, career counselling, quality and development, work-based learning, internationalization, entrepreneurship studies, digital pedagogics.

Stadin AO is a multi-disciplinary vocational college run by the City of Helsinki. We provide education for both young and adults, in 5 campuses and 18 locations all over Helsinki. We have around 20 000 students yearly, coming from various culture-, language- and age groups. We offer the possibility to study for 29 different qualifications and over 50 professions, in Finnish language. 

In Stadin AO, students have their personalised study plan based on their personal style of learning and desired career path. Studies consist of vocational and common study units, and each vocational study unit is assessed by competence demonstration. As Finnish VET is working life oriented, our students have variety of possibilities to acquire competences in our partner companies.

Our staff members are experts in their own fields, and work with versatile pedagogical methods to serve all our learners. We have expertise teams for strategical themes, such as international affairs, digital pedagogics, entrepreneurship and working life cooperation. Other themes include e.g. development and quality, sustainability, learning support, inclusion, study guidance, student well-being, Finnish as a second language and preparatory training for an upper secondary qualification.

• See the campuses and 29 areas of study here(Link leads to external service)  

Helsinki Finnish Adult Education Centre and Helsingfors arbis

Helsinki Finnish Adult Education Centre and Arbis are the biggest adult education centres in Finland. The education centres offer a diverse selection of courses, hobbies, public lectures, concerts, theatre activities, events and open university studies.

The adult education centre activities are primarily intended for over 16-year-olds. Courses are also available for younger people and families. The centres are open for all customers regardless of their place of residence. Arbis activities are also open to customers who do not speak Swedish as their mother tongue.

The Helsinki Finnish Adult Education Centre

The Helsinki Finnish Adult Education Centre is part of the upper secondary, vocational and liberal adult education service complex.

• Themes and topics: language learning, literacy/media literacy, assessment of learning, Finnish or Swedish as a second language instruction.

Arbis

Arbis was founded in 1914 and is Finland's largest Swedish-speaking adult education center. Arbis operates in the field of liberal education and offers Swedish-speaking residents of the capital region education, further training and leisure activities. In addition to the main target group, the institute is also visited by Finnish speakers and immigrants.

Arbis organizes courses in visual arts, various crafts, home economics, health and wellbeing, ICT, media, music, languages, cultural and social sciences and offers a Swedish integration program for immigrants. Teaching methods vary from practical short courses to theoretical university subjects within the framework of the Open University. Some courses take place over a weekend, while others run throughout the academic year. In addition, there are general lectures with accompanying discussions and other events. Courses usually have a participation fee and sometimes also a material fee. Lectures, concerts, exhibitions and events are free of charge and do not require prior registration.

The main operations are located at Dagmarinkatu 3 in Töölö, in a school building designed by architect Woldemar Baeckman and inaugurated in 1958. The second location is in the Stoa cultural centre in the eastern part of Helsinki, which is shared with the city's Finnish-speaking adult education center. The main entrance to Arbis is flanked by a bronze fountain sculpture, St Göran and the Dragon, made in 1938 by Gunnar Finne. In addition to teaching and administrative facilities, the building on Dagmarinkatu houses a banquet hall, library and café.