All comprehensive-school-age children, i.e. 7-16 -year-olds, whose knowledge of the Finnish language is not adequate enough to participate in teaching in basic education are entitled to preparatory instruction.

Preparatory instruction acquaints the pupils with the Finnish school, its customs and teaching methods. The aim of preparatory instruction is to develop the pupil’s skills in Finnish as well as to give the pupil adequate learning skills for basic education.

In addition to Finnish, other subjects taught are mathematics, environmental studies (biology and geography), Finnish history, music, physical education (sports), crafts and visual arts. Religion is not taught in preliminary instruction.

Preparatory instruction is independent of grade and class. The instruction is given in small groups that usually have less than 10 pupils. The weekly programme consists of 20-30 lessons, depending on the pupil's grade. Each pupil is provided with an individual educational plan to match his or her skills and learning abilities. The special needs and learning abilities of each pupil are also considered. After preparatory instruction a suitable grade level is defined to match the pupil’s skills and abilities. Preparatory instruction is assessed in a verbal assessment instead of grades.

Preparatory instruction usually lasts one school year but individual differences are possible. After completing preparatory instruction the pupil is transferred to the school near his or her home. If the distance from the pupil’s home is long, the bus tickets to and from school are provided free of charge by the City of Tampere.

Pupils of immigrant origin enroll in Preparatory instruction by completing the registration form in the link and by contacting the planning coordinator for multilingual pupils education.

Additional information of Preparatory instruction

Preparatory instruction is given in the following schools

Group:
Grades 1-3

Groups:
Grades 1- 2
Grades 3 - 4
Grades 5 - 6
Grades 7 - 9

Group:
Grades 7-9

Groups:
Grades 1-3
Grades 4-6

Groups:
Grades 1- 3
Grades 4 - 6
Grades 7 - 9