New recruitment-oriented labour market training creates a route to becoming an early childhood education teacher
The training s aimed at unemployed Bachelor’s and Master’s degree holders in Education who do not hold a qualification as an early childhood education and care teacher, as well as those working in fixed-term positions. The recruitment-oriented labour market training is free of charge for participants, and unemployed job seekers may be eligible for unemployment benefits during the training period. The goal is to provide participants with a smooth pathway to obtaining teaching qualifications and employment in early childhood education and care.
Early childhood education and care teachers are responsible for children’s pedagogical education, upbringing and care in day-care centres and pre-primary education. They plan, implement, evaluate and develop activities in accordance with the early childhood education and care plan together with childcare and social workers in the child group. In their pedagogical work, teachers must also take into account children's support needs and maintain close cooperation with guardians.
– Early childhood education and care teachers have a key role in supporting children's learning, growth and well-being. The qualification gained through this training opens up opportunities for a long-term career in early childhood education and care,” says Elli Rasimus, Director of Early Childhood Education of the City of Tampere.
Employment already during studies
The recruitment-oriented labour market training includes 70–75 credits of separate studies leading to qualification as an early childhood education and care teacher. The studies combine classroom teaching, remote learning, independent studies and practical learning in early childhood education units. The planned duration of the training is approximately 15 months.
The aim is for participants to start working in fixed-term early childhood education positions approximately four months after beginning their studies. After obtaining teaching qualifications, participants will have the opportunity to become permanently employed in early childhood education and care positions. For holders of a Master’s degree in Education, the studies also provide eligibility for positions as day-care centre directors.
Growing need for new professionals in Tampere
The need for early childhood education and care teachers in Tampere will increase significantly in the coming years.
– There is a great need for new early childhood education and care teachers in Tampere. The need for personnel is increasing not only due to retirements but also as the city's population continues to grow. Requirements concerning the personnel structure that will enter into force in 2030 will further increase the need for qualified early childhood education and care teachers, which is why new training and recruitment solutions are already needed, says Rasimus.
Collaboration to address workforce needs
The training is being prepared in cooperation with C6 cities: Tampere, Helsinki, Espoo, Vantaa, Turku and Oulu. The shared objective is to respond to the shortage of early childhood education and care professionals and to find new ways to train and recruit qualified professionals for the sector.
– Together with early childhood education and care operators, we have been looking for solutions to the sector's growing workforce needs. Recruitment-oriented labour market training is a good example of a new kind of cooperation that combines the training of professionals with employment opportunities in the sector. At the same time, we are developing operating models that complement traditional employment services and help address shortage of skilled workers in a sustainable way, says Sari Oksanen, Service Director of Employment and Growth Services at the City of Tampere.
Applications open in early 2027
The tendering period is expected to begin in early October. During the preparation phase, market dialogue has been conducted with higher education institutions, and after the tendering process each city will make procurement contracts with the selected training provider.
– Preparations are progressing as planned. The aim is to open application period for this new type of training, designed for public sector positions, in early 2027. The first students are expected to begin their studies in the spring. Approximately 12–15 study places are preliminarily planned for Tampere, while the total number of places across the six cities would be around 100, says Oksanen.
Further information on the application process and the detailed schedule will be provided as preparations progress.
