Together we create a safe start to the school year

For young people, the start of the school year is a major milestone – a new school, new friends and new opportunities. Unfortunately, this phase can also involve situations that may endanger young people’s safety and wellbeing.

Although the tradition of ‘nasujaiset’ (initiation rituals for new students organised by older students) is officially banned in general upper secondary schools in the capital region, it still persists in some schools despite the ban. In some cases, welcoming new students has involved humiliation, bullying and even violence. Such traditions have no place in a modern school community where everyone should feel safe and respected.

In addition to the ‘nasujaiset’ tradition, park parties have become increasingly popular in recent years, attracting hundreds or even thousands of young people to parks in Helsinki during weekend evenings. These unsupervised gatherings have involved violence, theft and substance abuse. The police and youth workers have repeatedly had to intervene in situations where young people’s safety has been at risk. Dark nights, large crowds and lack of supervision create conditions where it is difficult for young people to look after themselves or others.

General upper secondary schools in the capital region have focused on organising community-building days and welcome events. These are school-wide events organised by school staff and older students. Community-building days and welcome events held during the school day are examples of how new students can be integrated into the school community in a positive and respectful manner. These events emphasise peer support, a sense of community, and safety – the very values upon which a good school environment is built.

We want to appeal to all students – you have the power and responsibility to influence what the start of the school year will look like for new students. Everyone has the right to be treated with respect and without fear of humiliation. Positive traditions are not built by putting others down, but by creating something together.

We also hope that guardians will talk to young people about these issues. Ask where and with whom they are spending their evenings. Refusing to take part in questionable events can be difficult for a young person without support from home. Together, we can build a culture in which every young person can start their school year safely and with dignity.

A safe start to the school year is not a given – it is a shared effort that requires us all to be responsible and caring. Every young person has the right to start their school year in a safe and respectful environment, without having to fear humiliation or bullying.

Tarja Aro-Kuuskoski
Head of General Upper Secondary Education
City of Helsinki

Tapio Erma
Director of Upper Secondary Education
City of Espoo

Ari Ranki
Director of upper secondary education
City of Vantaa