Principal & Leadership Study Tours to Finland 2025
26th April – 3rd May 2025
The Principal & Leadership Study Tour to Finland is a program designed for school Principals and other educational leaders who want to learn about the Finnish education system. During the tour, participants visit schools and meet with Finnish educators to observe and discuss teaching methods, curriculum, and other aspects of the education system.
Finnish schools are not among the best in the World by chance. They are also led and managed exceptionally well. It is the Principals and Headmasters who lay the foundation for equality and trust in Finnish schools. It is they who make sure that teachers and students can perform at their best and achieve outstanding results.
Our one-week Principal & Leadership Study Tour program gives participants an overview of the Finnish education system and the role of pedagogical leadership. The Study Tour introduces the founding principles of Finnish Education management and leadership and how it is implemented in action. The program also offers an up-close and personal view of the daily life of Principals in Finnish schools.
The Study Tour to Finland provides an excellent opportunity for school leaders to learn from one of the best education systems in the world. By observing and discussing the Finnish education system, participants can gain valuable insights and ideas to improve their own schools and help their students succeed.
Inclusions
7 nights in 4-5 Star accommodation
7 Breakfasts & 4 Lunches
Guided School Visits & Workshops for 4 days
Welcome Dinner
Return Transport to/from Tampere
Lectures held by Finnish Education experts
Book ~Finnish Education in Practice: What, Why And How
Helsinki Highlights Tour
Sauna and Lake Experience
Nature Experience and Dinner
Certificate of the participation
Premium version of LessonApp for free for a year
Farewell lunch
Twin Share : $5450AUD
Single Room : $6250AUD
$200 Deposit
Flights not Included
Professional Development
Session 1 ~ Finnish Education System
Introduction to the principles behind the education system
Paradoxes of Finnish Education
Role and tasks of Principal in Finnish schools
School visit
Session 2 ~ Pedagogical Leadership
Curriculum and Assessment in the Finnish Basic Education
Development of school curriculum, self-assessment and operational culture
School as a Learning Community
Pedagogical leadership and learner-centred learning approach
Shared leadership in theory and in practice
School visit
Session 3 ~ Co-operation and leading educational support
Home to school and multi-professional co-operation
Inclusive education, guidance, counselling and student welfare services
What does integration and inclusion mean in Finnish schools and how it is implemented?
School visit
Session 4 ~ School of the future
System thinking and leadership
Future of education
Strategic planning, leading school development and coaching
Self-development of principal: professional growth, self-management, own well-being at work
Farewell lunch
Reflection of the program, ideas of implementation and co-operation
Training methods: The program includes introductions by the instructors to the various themes mentioned above. Attention will be paid to reflecting and expanding on the experiences the participants have during their visits to various educational institutions in the region. We have had extremely good feedback about this method. Every study tour program is carefully evaluated.
Trainers: Learning Scoop is a Finnish company working in the fields of education and training. The staff comprises experienced and internationally respected trainers, who are experts in the field of Finnish education and school leadership. The trainers have over 25 years of experience in leadership training in Finland and abroad. This experience has developed an academically based, yet truly practical approach to developing leadership skills.
This is an example program. Minor changes to content and schedule are possible.
Cultural Immersion Activities
Helsinki Highlights and Porvoo Tour
Step into the heart of Finnish history and culture with our guided sightseeing bus tour, offering an enriching exploration of Helsinki and the nearby medieval town of Porvoo. Begin your journey in Helsinki, where you’ll be captivated by the grandeur of the Helsinki Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that dominates the skyline with its stunning neoclassical design.
As you delve deeper into Helsinki, our expert guides will unveil the city’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing iconic landmarks and historic sites such as Senate Square, the Parliament House, and the bustling Market Square. Learn about the fascinating stories and traditions that have shaped this vibrant capital city over the centuries.
Next, venture to the charming town of Porvoo, where time seems to stand still amidst its medieval allure. Explore the majestic Porvoo Cathedral, a symbol of the town’s enduring legacy, and wander through the quaint Town Hall Square, adorned with colorful buildings and lively market stalls.
Take a leisurely stroll along Porvoo’s cobblestone streets, where local shops beckon with artisanal crafts, souvenirs, and delicious treats. From charming boutiques to cozy cafes, each corner of Porvoo invites you to experience its unique charm and hospitality.
Sauna Experience by the Lake
Embark on a cultural journey as your hosts introduce you to the timeless Finnish tradition of the authentic sauna experience. Set against the backdrop of a picturesque scene, enriched with Finnish customs, this promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
Imagine yourself enveloped in the serene beauty of nature, surrounded by the gentle rustle of trees and the soothing sounds of the nearby lake. The crackling of the sauna stove, the fragrance of fresh birch leaves, and the tranquil ambiance create an atmosphere of pure relaxation.
The Finnish Sauna by the lake encapsulates a way of life deeply rooted in tradition and reverence for nature. It’s a sanctuary for rejuvenation and connection, where one can immerse oneself in the timeless rituals that have shaped Finnish culture for generations.
Nature Experience & Dinner
Experience teamwork and friendship firsthand in this activity! First, collaborate to build a fire without matches, utilizing a fire steel—a challenging task requiring strategic planning and teamwork. Once the fire is roaring, prepare a mouthwatering meal using locally-sourced ingredients over the open flames. Indulge in a delightful berry crumble dessert, fostering conversations and creating lasting memories with newfound friends around the campfire. Cap off the evening with Nature Bingo, either in pairs or small teams, relishing the tranquility of nature while making keen observations.
Accommodation
1 night in Helsinki at Hotel Haven
Hotel Haven Helsinki is a luxury boutique hotel located in the heart of Helsinki, Finland. The hotel is situated in the historic district of Kaartinkaupunki, just a few steps away from the bustling market square, the harbour, and the iconic Helsinki Cathedral.
6 nights in Tampere at Lapland Hotel
Lapland Hotel Tampere is a modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Tampere, Finland. The hotel is known for its cozy and warm atmosphere, as well as its unique design inspired by the natural beauty of Lapland.
Itinerary
19-26th April 2025
The tour begins and ends in Helsinki, Finland
Please note this is a brief itinerary and guide only, a more detailed itinerary will be emailed to you closer to departure. Lots of spontanous group activites transpire along the way like Ice Hockey Finals, Drinks at a Rooftop Bar or Pub or Shopping expeditions to the many nearby shops and markets.
Everything is encouraged but nothing is compulsory!
Day 1 – Saturday
Hotel Haven check-in. If you arrive earlier they will happily store your luggage so you can explore the city.
Meet your travel companions!
Pre-dinner drinks in the Bar at our Hotel followed by our Welcome Dinner
Day 2 – Sunday
Buffet Breakfast at the Hotel
Helsinki Highlights Tour
Transfer by private coach to the city of Tampere. Approx. 2.5hrs. We will have a short stop along the way at a Service Center for bathrooms and you may purchase some food for lunch.
Check-in at Lapland Hotels Tampere
Day 3 – Monday
Buffet Breakfast at the Hotel
9-3 pm Workshop and school visit -Lunch Included
*Monday 21st April is a Public Holiday – there will be no school visits or workshops that day.
Sauna and Lake Experience
Day 4 – Tuesday
Buffet Breakfast at the Hotel
9-3 pm Workshop and school visit -Lunch Included
Free Afternoon and Evening – you may like to check out the Moomin Museum, take a walk down the main street or get a taxi to Pyynikki Park and Observation Tower.
Day 5 – Wednesday
Buffet Breakfast at the Hotel
9-3 pm Workshop and school visit – Lunch Included
Free Afternoon and Evening – you may like to check out the Moomin Museum, take a walk down the main street or get a taxi to Pyynikki Park and Observation Tower.
Day 6 – Thursday
Buffet Breakfast at the Hotel
9-3 pm Workshop and school visit – Lunch Included
*Thursday 1st May is a Public Holiday – there will be no school visits or workshops. We will join in with the May Day celebrations!
4-9 pm Nature Experience and Dinner
Day 7 – Friday
Buffet Breakfast at the Hotel
9-3 pm Workshop and school visit – Lunch Included
Our final evening! Join your new friends for a drink in the bar or a night out on the town!
Day 8 – Saturday
Buffet Breakfast at the Hotel
8 am Coach transfer to Helsinki Airport or Helsinki City Center (2.5hr traveling time)
Safe travels home everyone!
If you have some free time in Helsinki before or after the tour, I highly recomend a day trip to Tallinn, Estonia. You can find out more HERE
*Please note that the itinerary is subject to change