For many years the school system in Finland has been very successful. In the PISA survey, which compares reading, math, and science knowledge of 15-years-old around the world, Finland is not only the top European country but also competes with Asian giants like Shanghai, Singapore, and South Korea. But what makes the educational system in this small country so strikingly different from others in the western world?
First, the Finnish government makes it possible for all children to attend preschool, which comes after kindergarten. Compulsory education begins at 7. Teachers work with their pupils in school as much as possible. They have little homework to do when they get home. They learn in teams if it helps them reach their goals. That is why dropout rates are low compared to other countries.
In contrast to other nations, teaching in Finland is a highly admired profession. Finland selects its teachers very carefully. Only talented students go on to a university and receive a master's degree in education. Finland only takes its best to educate its youth. Teachers try everything to succeed with their pupils. Most of the pupils get additional help in their elementary school years, either from the teachers themselves or through specially trained educators.
