Finland education system faces debate over homeschooling and support models

Finland is experiencing significant debate regarding its educational structures, specifically concerning homeschooling and the implementation of a new student support model in primary education.

Regarding homeschooling, approximately 1,000 children in mainland Finland—about 0.2 percent of primary school-aged children—are currently homeschooled. Under the current system, parents only need to notify the municipality, with little oversight regarding curriculum or teaching methods. While some propose stricter licensing, increased supervision, or mandatory school attendance, others argue homeschooling can benefit children with neuropsychiatric challenges or those facing severe bullying.

Simultaneously, the transition from enhanced and special support to a new student-centered support model is causing concern among teachers and parents. In regions like Kotka and Hamina, the number of students receiving individual support is lower than the previous number of students receiving special support. While the goal is to reduce bureaucracy, educators report that assessing support needs is difficult, and some schools are struggling to provide necessary resources, such as special education classes for first graders.