Preparatory instruction for pupils with an immigrant background

Preparatory instruction prior to basic education is intended for Tampere pupils aged 7 through 16 with an immigrant background, who do not yet possess Finnish skills or do not speak and understand Finnish adequately to study in a basic education group. During preparatory instruction, the pupil will learn about a cross-section of Finnish schooling. The purpose of this instruction period is to develop the pupil’s Finnish skills and build the necessary competencies for them to then transfer to basic education.

The weekly hours spent vary by grade and as specified in an individual instruction programme. Teaching is mainly provided in the local school, either as a separate preparatory teaching group and in integration classes with basic education groups, or in full inclusion teaching in the first grade of general education. During the preparatory instruction period, the pupil’s learning skills and special needs will be assessed. At the conclusion of the period, the pupil will be placed in a basic education grade appropriate to their skills and ability to participate. The preparatory education period is usually one year, but the duration is individually flexible. Pupils will move to their local school no later than after preparatory education.

If the distance to their schooling exceeds the limit defined in the school transport bulletin, the City of Tampere will pay for transportation.