Finland, a Nordic country known for its breathtaking landscapes and high standard of living, is also renowned for its world-class education system. The Finnish education model has been lauded globally for its innovative teaching methods and focus on holistic development. This extends to the international schools in the country, which provide a multicultural environment and a globally recognised curriculum. In this blog, we will take a deep dive into the top 10 international schools in Finland, exploring their unique offerings and why they stand out.
1. Helsinki International School
Located in the heart of Finland’s capital, Helsinki International School (HIS) is a non-profit, co-educational institution that caters to students from pre-school to grade 9. HIS follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum, which is known for its rigorous academic standards and emphasis on personal development.
What sets HIS apart is its commitment to fostering a multicultural environment. With students from over 40 different nationalities, HIS provides an enriching and diverse learning space. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to arts, encouraging students to develop their interests and talents beyond the classroom.
2. International School of Vantaa
Next on our list is the International School of Vantaa (ISV), situated in the vibrant city of Vantaa. ISV offers education from pre-primary to grade 9, following the Finnish National Core Curriculum in English. This ensures that students gain a solid foundation in academic subjects, while also developing their English language skills.
ISV stands out for its focus on student wellbeing. The school has a dedicated wellbeing team that supports students’ physical, mental, and social health. Additionally, ISV offers a variety of clubs and activities, ranging from robotics to choir, providing students with ample opportunities to explore their passions.
3. Espoo International School
Espoo International School (EIS) is a reputable institution located in Espoo, the second largest city in Finland. EIS offers education from grades 1 to 9, following the IB curriculum. The school is known for its high academic standards and commitment to developing globally minded students.
One of the unique features of EIS is its emphasis on technology in education. The school integrates technology into the curriculum, preparing students for a digital future. Furthermore, EIS offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including a robotics club and a coding club, encouraging students to delve into the world of technology.
4. Oulu International School
Located in the northern city of Oulu, Oulu International School (OIS) is a public institution that offers education from pre-primary to grade 9. OIS follows the IB curriculum, providing students with a well-rounded and globally recognised education.
OIS is known for its supportive and inclusive learning environment. The school has a strong support system in place, including a special education needs coordinator and a school psychologist. Additionally, OIS offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as a chess club and a drama club, ensuring that students have a balanced school life.
5. Ressu Comprehensive School
Ressu Comprehensive School, located in Helsinki, is a public institution that offers education from grades 1 to 9. The school follows the Finnish National Core Curriculum in English, providing students with a strong academic foundation.
What sets Ressu Comprehensive School apart is its focus on arts education. The school offers a variety of arts-related activities, including a drama club and a visual arts club. Furthermore, the school has a strong music programme, with opportunities for students to participate in a choir or an orchestra.
6. Turku International School
Next on our list is Turku International School (TIS), located in the historic city of Turku. TIS offers education from pre-primary to upper secondary level, following the IB curriculum. The school is known for its rigorous academic programme and commitment to developing internationally minded students.
TIS stands out for its emphasis on science education. The school offers a variety of science-related activities, including a science club and a robotics club. Furthermore, TIS has a strong partnership with the University of Turku, providing students with unique learning opportunities.
7. Vaasa International School
Vaasa International School (VIS) is a public institution located in the coastal city of Vaasa. VIS offers education from pre-primary to grade 9, following the Finnish National Core Curriculum in English. The school is known for its high academic standards and supportive learning environment.
What sets VIS apart is its focus on environmental education. The school has a dedicated environmental education programme, which includes activities such as nature walks and recycling projects. Furthermore, VIS offers a variety of clubs and activities, including a nature club and a gardening club.
8. Tampere International School
Tampere International School (TIS) is a public institution located in the vibrant city of Tampere. TIS offers education from pre-primary to grade 9, following the IB curriculum. The school is known for its high academic standards and commitment to developing globally minded students.
TIS stands out for its emphasis on community involvement. The school encourages students to participate in community service activities, fostering a sense of social responsibility. Furthermore, TIS offers a variety of clubs and activities, including a community service club and a debate club.
9. Kuopio International School
Kuopio International School (KIS) is a public institution located in the beautiful city of Kuopio. KIS offers education from pre-primary to grade 9, following the Finnish National Core Curriculum in English. The school is known for its high academic standards and supportive learning environment.
What sets KIS apart is its focus on physical education. The school offers a variety of sports-related activities, including a sports club and a skiing club. Furthermore, KIS has a strong partnership with local sports clubs, providing students with unique sporting opportunities.
10. Joensuu International School
Lastly, we have Joensuu International School (JIS), located in the eastern city of Joensuu. JIS offers education from pre-primary to grade 9, following the IB curriculum. The school is known for its rigorous academic programme and commitment to developing internationally minded students.
JIS stands out for its emphasis on language education. The school offers a variety of language-related activities, including a language club and a reading club. Furthermore, JIS has a strong language programme, with opportunities for students to learn multiple languages.
In conclusion, these top 10 international schools in Finland offer a high-quality education, a supportive learning environment, and a variety of unique offerings. Whether it’s a focus on arts, science, technology, or languages, each school provides students with the opportunity to explore their interests and develop their talents. So, if you’re considering an international school in Finland, these schools are certainly worth considering.
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