What if “less” really is “more” in education?
Hello and happy Friday,
I just read this article.
Finnish students often attend school for just 4–5 hours a day, and Finland consistently ranks among the top countries in global education outcomes. According to Education Corner and InfoFinland, Finnish children typically begin formal schooling at age 7 and attend classes for shorter periods compared to many other countries.
A typical school day runs from around 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, especially in primary grades. Despite these shorter hours, Finland’s students perform exceptionally well in international assessments like the OECD’s Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA).
The success of Finland’s education system is rooted in several key factors. Homework is minimal, allowing students more time to rest, play, and pursue personal interests. Breaks between classes are frequent and encouraged, often lasting 15 minutes or more, which helps students stay focused and mentally refreshed. Most importantly, teachers in Finland are highly trained, with all educators required to hold a master’s degree and undergo rigorous pedagogical preparation.
As highlighted by Global Society Earth, Finland emphasizes equality, trust, and autonomy in its schools. There are no standardized tests until later years, and the curriculum focuses on creativity, critical thinking, and emotional well-being. The result is a system where students learn deeply without the stress of excessive hours or pressure.
Sources:
InfoFinland – Finnish Education System
Education Corner – Finnish Education Facts
Global Society Earth – Finland’s Educational Success
What do you think about this approach?
Could shorter school days and less homework actually lead to better learning outcomes?
How might we adapt some of Finland’s ideas — like trust, autonomy, and time for play — in our own classrooms or teacher training contexts?
