Cooperation between home and school supports the wellbeing and learning of children and young people

Throughout the year, Espoo’s comprehensive schools organise events where parents can learn more about school activities. Joint events, such as parents’ evenings, assessment discussions and other activities, offer guardians opportunities to talk to teachers and other school staff, gain information about their child’s learning progress and determine if they need additional support.

“Close cooperation between home and school is always in the best interest of the child or young person. In basic education, guardians and all members of the school community have their own role in supporting the pupil’s growth and learning, as well as ensuring smooth daily routines. Open dialogue and mutual commitment help create a learning environment where everyone can safely reach their full potential,” says Juha Nurmi, Director of Basic Education.

The guardians’ responsibility for supervision is outlined in the Act on Compulsory Education: The guardian of a child of compulsory education age is required to ensure that the child completes their compulsory education.

As for pre-primary education, the obligation is outlined in the Basic Education Act: A child’s guardian must ensure that the child attends pre-primary education or some other activity where the goals of pre-primary education can be achieved.

1. Show interest in their school day and learning
   Showing interest in your child’s school day supports their learning. Helping with or checking their homework encourages them to practise and adopt new things. Ask about the day’s events, assignments, successes and possible challenges – this shows that you value learning.
2. Encourage independence and responsibility
   Encourage your child to take responsibility for their assignments. It is also important to offer help when challenges arise. Balancing encouragement and support helps children experience success and develop into independent learners.
3. Create a clear and calm routine at home
   Provide a calm environment for homework. Regular routines help children focus better and manage tasks without them piling up.
4. Ensure rest and wellbeing
   Getting enough rest and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are essential for the child’s learning and development. Adequate sleep, healthy nutrition and physical activity give energy and support wellbeing. It is also good to monitor screen time: excessive screen time can interfere with concentration and sleep quality. An adult’s support is crucial here, as children and young people may find it difficult to set appropriate limits to their screen time.
5. Keep in regular contact with teachers
   Staying in touch with school staff helps you keep track of your child’s progress and any need for additional support. Actively participate in parents’ evenings and assessment discussions, and, if necessary, ask for advice on supporting your child’s learning at home.

The transition to upper secondary education is an important milestone for lower secondary school pupils. Upper secondary students are almost adults, but they still need their guardians’ support in matters related to studies. Guardians’ positivity and encouragement help students succeed in their studies.

Compulsory education continues until the age of 18, which means that a student’s guardians must ensure that the student completes their compulsory education. Upper secondary students must attend lessons and participate in study-related events. If a student needs to be absent for a valid reason, their guardian should notify the school of this as soon as possible.

When the student turns 18, they can decide for themselves what study-related information they want to share with their guardians. It is important for young adults to be able to make decisions about their own affairs. By discussing matters and showing positive interest, guardians can provide support in situations where it is still needed.