Hi,
we are about to move to Finland (Helsinki area). We have children 11yrs and 4 yrs.
Are there in Finland state-kindergartens, or just a private held? We want just a common finnish speaking daycare, not any special like english etc.
What does it cost? Is it a problem to get a place?
And what about a basic school? Is it paid?
Thank you
Kindergarten & Schools
Re: Kindergarten & Schools
Most of the day care (although there are other options) is run by the cities. In Helsinki most of the information seems to be nowadays online also in English:
http://www.hel.fi/www/Helsinki/en/day-c ... /day-care/
The fee is income tied but capped at 283€/month for one child. I don't know how easily and fast they arrange for immigrants (find a contact email and ask), the locals apply during the spring if they want their kids to start in the autumn.
(link for Helsinki city, I assume roughly the same applies to for example Espoo and Vantaa, but as said, the organizer for public day care is the city, not the state, so some aspects may vary).
School is free. If you search this board you'll find threads with comments (and personal experience) of the usefulness or uselessness of the specific programs meant to enhance integration of fresh immigrants.
http://www.hel.fi/www/Helsinki/en/day-c ... /day-care/
The fee is income tied but capped at 283€/month for one child. I don't know how easily and fast they arrange for immigrants (find a contact email and ask), the locals apply during the spring if they want their kids to start in the autumn.
(link for Helsinki city, I assume roughly the same applies to for example Espoo and Vantaa, but as said, the organizer for public day care is the city, not the state, so some aspects may vary).
School is free. If you search this board you'll find threads with comments (and personal experience) of the usefulness or uselessness of the specific programs meant to enhance integration of fresh immigrants.