Joyful learning environments are active and cheerful.
How we do it – Implementing our approach
Child Centered Environment
The environment is vital to a child's learning and plays a large role in early years education both with the English EYFS and the Finnish early years curriculum (ECEC). Modern teaching recognises that children learn best when choices, freedom to explore and the use of imagination is encouraged. The only way for this ambition to be met is that a large free flowing, but structured environment is provided. Most of our centres are designed and built in partnership with us, and our purpose built environments steer away from small dark rooms to large light environments that excite a child's curiosity and learning, as well as giving peace, as we all need that as well. Through the use of displays, equipment, furnishings and a well-planned layout, imagination and curiosity are encouraged whilst achieving the right balance between an exciting, secure, and comfortable place to be. All the furnishings are designed specifically for the children, ensuring their comfort. We ensure that all our centres, either purpose built or not, meet our requirements.
Teaching & Language
Interactive Teaching
The teachers listen to and observe a group, so that they know when the children need help and guidance and when they don't. In this way the children can progress at their own pace.
Language
There are many areas in the school that deal with this very important topic: circle time, show and tell, story/discussion time, singing...
The Groups
We have groups for:
- Tiddlers 1-2 yrs
- Toddlers 2-3 yrs
- Pre-school 3-4 yrs
- Highscope 4-5 yrs
- Schoolroom Reception 5-6 yrs
- Schoolroom Year 1 6-7 yrs
The School Pets
We have several animals in the schools ranging from rabbits to birds. There are several reasons for having the animals in our schools, covering all the areas of our curriculum. Caring for animals and people other than yourself is an important part of social development.
Forest Schools / Pet Park
Sharon and Mikko Auri run a pet park in the countryside about 50 km west of Helsinki in a small village called Torbacka. The park has over 150 animals including sheep, goats, pigs as well as more exotic animals such as lizards, parrots and sugar gliders.
Practical Matters
Here you can find information about the Practical Matters, e.g.
- Webmail - School communicator
- General Information
- School Hours