Choosing a school is a big decision
Helsinki has a total of 156 comprehensive schools, all of which provide a high standard of education.
In addition to municipal schools, there are private contracting schools, private schools and state schools. There are also several special schools in Helsinki.
Primary education is for the most part the same for all pupils. Pupils can choose between a number of optional subjects mainly between the 3rd and 9th forms. These options allow pupils to concentrate more on one specific subject, such as music, and support their free-time activities.
Each pupil has a reserved starting place in his or her local school. Pupils may also choose to enrol in another school. Every school gives priority to children from its school district and only then accepts children from elsewhere. Pupils who are residents of other municipalities may also also attend schools in Helsinki, provided there is space.
Enrolment in the first form of the comprehensive school takes place in February every year. Children who wish to go to classes with a special focus and bilingual or foreign-language classes have to take an aptitude test, which evaluates the children's aptitude to study the focus subject.
Applications for focus education, which begins from the third form onwards, are submitted during January and the aptitude tests are held in February. Applications for focus education in the upper stage of comprehensive school are also submitted in January and the aptitude tests are held in January-February.
The City of Helsinki Education Department publishes an annual guide for school selection, introducing all schools operating in Helsinki. The guides are posted out to all parents.
Information events and open days to help pupils and their parents in school selection are usually organised in January. School admission results are sent to pupils' homes. Parents should confirm the acceptance of the study place in writing by the due date.
Links:
City of Helsinki Education Department
Text: City of Helsinki Education Department
Photo: Helsinki City picture bank
