Pre-primary Education in other Languages

Bilingual preschool in English and Finnish

In bilingual pre-primary education, more than 25% of the instruction is provided in a language other than the national languages, Finnish or Swedish.

In Oulu, bilingual pre-primary education in English and Finnish is arranged in Pikku-Aino Early Childhood Education (ECED) Centre, Allinpuisto ECEC Centre, Tuulikello ECEC Centre and English Playschool of Oulu. There are no language proficiency tests for admission to bilingual pre-primary education.

All children in these ECEC centres participate in both English and Finnish pre-primary education studies. Additionally, children will hear both languages naturally in everyday situations.

Language-enriched Pre-primary Education

In language-enriched pre-primary education, less than 25% of instruction is provided in a language other than the national languages. In these groups, both English and Finnish are used as a teaching language and in everyday situations, riddles and songs, playtime etc.

At Pikku-Aino ECEC centre and Tuulikello ECEC centre, some groups for children over three years old are bilingual (Finnish–English).

Pre-primary Education in Swedish 

Pre-primary education in Swedish is provided in Svenska Barnträdgården (private). 

Pre-primary Education in German 

Language-enriched pre-primary education in German is provided in Saksanpähkinä ECED centre (private). No prior knowledge of German is required. The language is used naturally in songs, rhymes, play, and everyday activities to support children’s learning and interest in languages. 

Native Language Teaching 

Native language teaching is provided each year for children of the largest language groups. Native language learning groups may change each year. Each child’s learning begins from their individual starting points and goals. The native language teacher works in cooperation with the child and the staff of the learning group. The goal is to support and maintain the child’s native language and cultural identity.

Native language teaching is provided by teachers who are native speakers of the language. ECEC centre staff may also organise native language clubs if needed. Guardians are responsible for maintaining and developing their child’s native language at home.

If possible, pre-primary children may also take part in native language instruction organised in basic education. A native language learning group is established when there are at least six (6) participants. Applications take place in August, and teaching begins in September.

More information about education for pupils with an immigrant background is available on the basic education website of the City of Oulu.