In Finland, the world-class education path begins with Early Childhood Education. Early childhood has very different goals in Finland compared to many other countries: in Finland, early childhood education supports children’s balanced growth, development and learning, not just academic objectives. Finnish early childhood education is research-based and is organised according to children’s natural growth and development. Learning through play is essential.

Finnish quality early childhood education lays the basis for excellent learning outcomes in Finnish basic education. Early childhood education and care, pre-primary and basic education form an integrated whole, progressing consistently following the child’s development. In Finland, early childhood education is provided for children between 0-5 years. Pre-primary education is compulsory for children of the age of six. Basic education starts in the year when a child turns seven.

Join us on a study tour to Finland, where you will have the opportunity to visit some of the country’s leading Early Childhood Centres and meet with educators to gain insights into what makes the Finnish Early Childhood Education system so successful.

During the tour, you will visit kindergarten and day care centres in Tampere, where you will observe classes, interact with teachers and students, and learn about the Finnish approach to education. You will also attend seminars and workshops led by Finnish education experts, who will share their knowledge and experience with you.

In addition to the educational component, the tour includes cultural activities and sightseeing, giving you a chance to experience Finland’s unique beauty and charm. You will have the opportunity to visit landmarks like the Helsinki Cathedral, Old Town Porvoo and the traditional Market Hall of Helsinki, and to enjoy the traditional Finnish Sauna and nature.

Discover the foundations of Finland’s world-renowned education system through engaging professional learning designed specifically for early childhood educators. Explore the key principles that shape Finnish education, unpack the famous paradoxes of learning—including “less is more” and “no dead ends”—and gain insight into how early childhood education is valued as an essential part of the broader educational journey.

Explore Finland’s unique Educare model, where care, education and teaching are seamlessly integrated to support children’s balanced growth, development and learning. Gain insight into the different forms of early childhood education and daycare across Finland, including how services are funded, regulated and guided by national legislation. You’ll also unpack the Finnish National Core Curriculum for ECEC, including its values-based approach, areas of learning and transversal competencies, and discover how pre-primary education creates a strong and supportive bridge between early childhood education and formal schooling.

Discover how Finland places learning through play at the heart of early childhood education, fostering curiosity, creativity and a lifelong love of learning. Explore the role of intrinsic motivation as a foundation for meaningful learning experiences, alongside child-centred pedagogies including inquiry-based learning, hands-on exploration, small group activities and flexible learning environments. You’ll also gain insight into how children are empowered as active participants in ECEC, with a strong focus on voice, involvement and agency within the learning process.

Explore how Finnish early childhood education is designed around the individual needs of each child, with a strong commitment to inclusion, equity and belonging. Learn how support is embedded within everyday practice through a range of inclusive strategies and tailored interventions, while gaining insight into the different categories and forms of support available within ECEC settings. You’ll also discover the role of observation, documentation and individual ECEC plans in supporting each child’s growth, development and learning journey.

Step into the heart of Finnish history and culture with our guided sightseeing bus tour, offering an enriching exploration of Helsinki and the nearby medieval town of Porvoo.

Begin your journey in Helsinki, where you'll be captivated by the grandeur of the Helsinki Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that dominates the skyline with its stunning neoclassical design.

As you delve deeper into Helsinki, our expert guides will unveil the city's rich cultural heritage, showcasing iconic landmarks and historic sites such as Senate Square, the Parliament House, and the bustling Market Square. Learn about the fascinating stories and traditions that have shaped this vibrant capital city over the centuries.

Next, venture to the charming town of Porvoo, where time seems to stand still amidst its medieval allure. Explore the majestic Porvoo Cathedral, a symbol of the town's enduring legacy, and wander through the quaint Town Hall Square, adorned with colorful buildings and lively market stalls.

Take a leisurely stroll along Porvoo's cobblestone streets, where local shops beckon with artisanal crafts, souvenirs, and delicious treats. From charming boutiques to cozy cafes, each corner of Porvoo invites you to experience its unique charm and hospitality.

Embark on a cultural journey as your hosts introduce you to the timeless Finnish tradition of the authentic sauna experience. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque scene, enriched with Finnish customs, this promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

Imagine yourself enveloped in the serene beauty of nature, surrounded by the gentle rustle of trees and the soothing sounds of the nearby lake. The crackling of the sauna stove, the fragrance of fresh birch leaves, and the tranquil ambience create an atmosphere of pure relaxation.

The Finnish Sauna by the lake encapsulates a way of life deeply rooted in tradition and reverence for nature. It's a sanctuary for rejuvenation and connection, where one can immerse oneself in the timeless rituals that have shaped Finnish culture for generations.

Experience teamwork and friendship firsthand in this activity!

First, collaborate to build a fire without matches, utilising a fire steel—a challenging task requiring strategic planning and teamwork.

Once the fire is roaring, prepare a mouthwatering meal using locally-sourced ingredients over the open flames. Indulge in a delightful berry crumble dessert, fostering conversations and creating lasting memories with newfound friends around the campfire.

Cap off the evening with Nature Bingo, either in pairs or small teams, relishing the tranquillity of nature while making keen observations.

You arrive in the vibrant capital, check into your 4-star hotel, and gather for a warm Welcome Dinner. It’s the perfect moment to meet fellow educators from around the world, share expectations for the week, and enjoy your first taste of Finnish hospitality as you prepare for the journey ahead.

Accommodation: Hotel Haven (or similar)
Meals: Dinner

After breakfast, set out on a guided sightseeing tour of Helsinki: wander around Senate Square, admire the majestic architecture, and soak in the city’s energy. Then venture to the nearby medieval town of Porvoo — stroll its cobblestone streets, browse charming boutiques and cafes, and enjoy the history and culture that give Finland its unique charm. A gentle, inspiring way to begin the journey.

Accommodation: Hotel Haven (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy a restful breakfast, then board a private coach to Tampere (a few hours’ drive) — settling into your next hotel in this cozy, welcoming city. The afternoon invites you to relax and reconnect with nature. Later, unwind in a traditional Finnish lakeside sauna — a soothing, grounding experience and your first real taste of Finnish 'slow living'.

Accommodation: Lapland Hotel, Tampere
Meals: Breakfast

This morning marks your first professional experience: visit an Early Childhood Centre / daycare or kindergarten and observe Finnish early-childhood education in action. See how play-based learning, child-centred pedagogy and developmentally appropriate practices guide each child’s growth. After lunch, you have the afternoon free — a chance to reflect, wander Tampere’s streets, or simply recharge.

Accommodation: Lapland Hotel, Tampere
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Return to another centre or a different age-group setting to deepen your understanding of how Finnish ECEC works in diverse contexts. Engage with educators, ask questions about inclusion and individual support, and soak up concrete ideas to bring back home. The evening is yours — maybe a quiet walk, café chat, or spontaneous conversation with newfound colleagues.

Accommodation: Lapland Hotel, Tampere
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Yet another insightful centre visit or workshop exploring aspects like individual support, inclusive practice, or the philosophical foundations of Finnish ECEC. In the afternoon/evening: get outdoors for a special nature experience — build a fire together without matches, cook a meal over open flame, share a delicious dessert under the sky, and deepen bonds with your peers. A powerful mix of community, nature, and reflection — a hallmark of Finnish values in childhood and beyond.

Accommodation: Lapland Hotel, Tampere
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On your final day of professional development, do one last ECEC centre visit — maybe see a different age group or a contrasting pedagogical approach. Afterwards, gather with the group for a Farewell Dinner: celebrate the insights you’ve gained, exchange contact details, and reflect on how your time in Finland will shape your teaching and leadership back home.

Accommodation: Lapland Hotel, Tampere
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Savour your final Finnish breakfast, pack up your notes and memories, and depart for Helsinki at 8am. We arrive at Helsinki airport around 11am, or you can make your way back into the city and enjoy a little extra time if your flight is later.

You leave not only with new ideas and inspiration, but renewed energy, international connections, and a fresh perspective on early childhood education.

Meals: Breakfast