In association with
City of Tampere
Education Finland
Education Tampere
PINO Networks
ACCREDITATION
About CCE Finland’s Accreditation
Introduction to Accreditation in NEP Finnish Model by CCE Finland
CCE Finland’s accreditation process for NEP (National Education Policy/New Education Policy) Finnish Model Schools/Institutes is marked by a sturdy research foundation. We firmly believe that education should evolve in line with the latest research findings, setting us apart as leaders in delivering high-quality education.
Accreditation, the cornerstone of educational quality within the Finnish system, is a voluntary and non-governmental process that exemplifies excellence. Guided by a decade-long commitment to educational innovation and a robust research foundation, the Council for Creative Education Finland (CCE Finland) emerged as a visionary force in Finnish education. This narrative takes you on a journey into the realm of Finnish NEP (National Education Policy) Model Schools/Institutes, where our pioneering approach to accreditation is deeply rooted in extensive research.
Benefits of CCE Finland’s Finnish NEP Accreditation:
Rooted in Evidence: Our commitment to a play-based learning approach is not arbitrary but firmly grounded in research. This approach is substantiated by evidence demonstrating that children learn more effectively and develop essential competencies through play-based methods.
Dynamic Learning Environments: Our unwavering commitment to creating dynamic educational spaces is underpinned by extensive research on the profound impact of learning environments on student engagement and learning outcomes. We understand that high-quality educational spaces are not one-size-fits-all; they evolve through research-driven teacher training, reflection, and dynamic school environments.
Embracing Pedagogical Flexibility: Our approach harmonizes with the evolving research on pedagogical flexibility, increasingly recognized as essential for adapting to the diverse needs of students and nurturing creativity.
A Research-Driven Curriculum: Our educational model is not a mere emulation of Finnish practices but a meticulously researched adaptation. Extensive studies into the five crucial learning areas of Finnish early education form the basis of our curriculum, ensuring alignment with the best practices that have garnered global acclaim for Finnish education.
SISU Box Innovation: The SISU Box, a brainchild of CCE Finland's research team, stands as a testament to our dedication to research and innovation. This acclaimed learning material is the product of extensive research, designed to nurture creativity, curiosity, and critical competencies in students.
Teacher Training Excellence: Our teacher training programs are not merely inspired by Finnish pedagogy but are also deeply informed by research, both in Finnish and Indian educational contexts. By merging Finnish best practices with insights derived from research, we equip educators with the skills and knowledge essential for the effective implementation of the NEP Finnish Model.
Accreditation Development in Phases
Phase 1: Initial Preparation and Orientation
Duration: Varies based on institution size and readiness (typically 1-2 months)
Prerequisites: Completion of Registration/Intent Form
Steps:
-
Student engagement: Measure the level of engagement that students have with their school, such as participation in classroom activities and extracurricular activities. Higher levels of student engagement are associated with better learning outcomes.
-
Student-teacher ratio: Measure the number of teachers relative to the number of students in a school. A lower student-teacher ratio is associated with better learning outcomes.
-
Teacher qualifications: Measure the qualifications and expertise of teachers in a school. More experienced and qualified teachers are associated with higher learning outcomes.
-
Technology access: Measure the access students have to computers, tablets, and other technology in the classroom. Access to technology can improve student engagement and learning outcomes.
-
School resources: Measure the resources a school has available to students, such as libraries, laboratories, and other educational materials. Access to these resources can improve student learning.
-
Academic performance: Measure the academic success of a school by looking at students’ test scores, grades, and other measures of learning outcomes.
-
Attendance rates: Measure the number of students attending school regularly, which is an important factor in successful learning.
Guidance for Quality Education in Finnish Context:
-
Begin your journey with a commitment to ensuring the highest quality of education, inspired by the Finnish education model.
-
Access the institution's data and records to facilitate the forthcoming self-evaluation and assessment process.
Here are some common eligibility criteria that schools/institutes typically need to meet to apply for Finnish NEP Accreditation application:
-
License and Certification/ Legal Status: The school must operate legally and have the necessary permits and approvals from relevant government authorities (SSC/CBSC/ICSC/IGCSC)
-
Educational Goals and Values: The school should have a clearly defined mission and vision statement that outlines its educational goals and values.
-
Compliance with National Curriculum: The school should demonstrate alignment with the national core curriculum and adhere to the educational principles and guidelines set by the education department or relevant authority.
-
Qualified Teaching Staff: The school should employ qualified teaching staff with appropriate degrees, certifications, and professional development to ensure quality education. Minimum Bachelor’s degree holder or D.Ed/ B.Ed/ M.Ed.
-
Adequate Facilities: The school should have appropriate facilities and infrastructure to support the educational needs of students, including classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and specialized learning spaces.
-
Assessment and Evaluation: The school should have effective assessment practices in place, both formative and summative, to monitor student progress and ensure learning outcomes are met.
-
Student Strength: 100 Minimum for Preschool, 500 Minimum for K-12
-
Technology Integration (if applicable): If the school integrates technology into the learning process, it should have access to and effectively use appropriate technology resources.
-
Student Resources: The school should provide students with access to educational materials, libraries, extracurricular activities, and any unique offerings that enhance the learning experience.
-
Community Engagement: The school should engage with the community, fostering mutual trust and demonstrating its commitment to a broader educational mission.
-
Financial Stability: The school should have financial stability and the capacity to provide the necessary resources and facilities to support its educational programs.
-
Previous Accreditation (if applicable): If the school has previously been accredited, it may need to provide information about its accreditation history, recognitions, or awards.
-
Compliance with School Policies: The school should have and adhere to policies related to teaching, learning, discipline, and other relevant areas.
-
Leadership Structure: The school should have a clear leadership structure with defined roles and responsibilities for administrators, principals, and department heads.
Transparency and Documentation: The school should maintain accurate records and documentation to support the accreditation application.
Accreditation Process at a Glance
Why CCE Finland for Finnish NEP Accreditation?
We are pioneers in the accreditation of NEP (National Education Policy) Finnish Model Schools/Institutes due to our extensive research-backed approach. We have successfully launched NEP Finnish Model Trainings across India and have 2 successful NEP Finnish model launches in India, and our expertise is deeply rooted in robust research. Here's why our accreditation process stands out as a result of our research-driven approach:
-
Research-Based Curriculum: Our educational model is not a mere replication of Finnish practices; it is a carefully researched adaptation. We have conducted in-depth research into Finnish early education's five important learning areas, ensuring that our curriculum aligns with the best practices that have made Finnish education globally acclaimed.
-
Data-Driven Decisions: Our commitment to continuous improvement is driven by data and research findings. We regularly collect and analyze data on student performance, teaching methods, and curriculum effectiveness. This research-oriented approach allows us to make informed decisions and refine our educational practices.
-
SISU Box Development: The SISU Box, designed by CCE Finland's research team and awarded the prestigious Design From Finland award, is a testament to our dedication to research and innovation. This learning material is based on extensive research and is designed to foster creativity, curiosity, and key competencies in students.
-
Teacher Training Excellence: Our teacher training programs are informed by research in both Finnish pedagogy and the Indian education context. We combine the best practices from Finland with insights from our research to equip educators with the skills and knowledge necessary to implement the NEP Finnish Model effectively.
-
Evidence-Based Practices: The play-based learning approach we embrace is not arbitrary but is grounded in research. It is supported by evidence showing that children learn better and develop essential competencies more effectively through play-based methods.
-
Dynamic Learning Environment: Our commitment to creating creative spaces is informed by extensive research on the impact of learning environments on student engagement and learning outcomes. We understand that high-quality educational spaces are not generic; they evolve through research-driven teacher training, reflection, and dynamic school environments.
-
Pedagogical Flexibility: Our approach aligns with the evolving research on pedagogical flexibility, which is increasingly recognized as essential for adapting to the diverse needs of students and fostering creativity.
-
Evidence of Transformation: Our successful transformation of existing learning spaces serves as a concrete demonstration of our commitment to the Finnish NEP model. It showcases our ability to adapt and innovate within the constraints of existing infrastructure.
-
Quality Checks and Continuous Improvement: We view the transformation of learning spaces as an ongoing process that aligns with our commitment to continuous improvement. We regularly assess the impact of these changes on student learning outcomes and make adjustments as needed.
-
Core Belief: our accreditation process for NEP Finnish Model Schools/Institutes is distinguished by our strong research foundation. Our research-backed curriculum, data-driven decision-making, innovative learning materials, teacher training excellence, and evidence-based practices all contribute to our pioneering status in the field. We believe that education should evolve based on the latest research findings, and this commitment sets us apart as leaders in delivering high-quality education.
Recognition Levels in Finnish NEP Model Accreditation
The use of the Finnish mentions such as "Accredited with Condition," "Accredited with Implementation Recommendations," and "Accredited as Model School" typically occurs in the final phase of the accreditation process, which is "Phase 5: Final Recommendations, Reporting, and Recognition."
Here's how these Finnish mentions are typically applied during this phase:
-
Accredited with Condition: This mention may be used if the institution has met most of the accreditation standards but has specific areas that need improvement. During the final phase, the accrediting organization, in consultation with CCE Finland, may identify these areas that require attention and outline the conditions for accreditation. The institution will need to work on addressing these conditions to achieve full accreditation.
-
Accredited with Implementation Recommendations: If the institution meets accreditation standards but still has areas where improvements are recommended, it may be accredited with implementation recommendations. These recommendations would be provided during the final phase, and the institution is encouraged to implement them to further enhance its educational practices.
-
Accredited as NEP Finnish Model School: The highest level of recognition is "Accredited as Model School." This indicates that the institution has demonstrated exceptional alignment with Finnish education standards and practices. During the final phase, the accrediting organization, with input from CCE Finland, recognizes the institution's outstanding commitment to quality education in accordance with Finnish values.
These mentions are typically assigned based on the comprehensive creativity observation, quality audits, 360 Degree reviews and assessment conducted throughout the accreditation process, which culminates in the final phase. It is in this phase that the CCE Finland’s Accreditation board will decide the accreditation status and any associated mentions based on the institution's performance, readiness, and alignment with Finnish NEP Model guidelines.