Elementary schooling is a cornerstone of the Finnish society, not least when it comes to education, equality and confidence in the future. This was the core message of SFP Party President, Minister of Education Anders Adlercreutz, as the vision for the long-term development of comprehensive education in Finland was presented on 11 February.
“Elementary schools should not just prepare children and adolescents for receiving the future, but also equip them for building it. This is why they are our most important future institution,” Adlercreutz says.
When the Finnish comprehensive education system was built over fifty years ago, its objective was to give all children equal opportunities for learning, regardless of their background, place of residence of economic situation.
The vision that was now presented focuses on schools’ long-term roles in a society characterised by huge changes. The spotlight is not only on the students’ learning processes but also on the broader educational task of schools.
“We don’t have to reinvent comprehensive education, but its basic tasks must be adjusted to today’s needs. Instead of preparing students for future changes, schools must also give them the tools they need for having an impact on society,” Adlercreutz says.
