Support provided by educational institutions for children learning in Estonian

In childcare centres and preschools

Early childhood education follows the principle of inclusive education – children take part in learning and developmental activities alongside their peers for most of the day under the guidance of their teacher. To help a child adjust more smoothly to an Estonian-language environment, the preschool may prepare an individual development plan if needed, supporting the child’s development and interaction with peers through games, projects and shared activities.

In preschools where a large proportion of children have a mother tongue other than Estonian, Estonian-language support teachers help children learn the language. Local governments receive state funding for this purpose and may provide additional support if they wish.

Researchers have noted that the size of a bilingual child’s vocabulary is closely linked to the amount of language input they receive in both languages. If a child learns Estonian words and expressions in preschool or childcare, it is important that their home language continues to be developed at home to support broader vocabulary growth.

In schools

All schools organise teaching on the basis of the national curriculum. A school may, if needed, prepare an individual curriculum for a pupil who has recently moved to Estonia.

Most basic schools teach in Estonian, and some are transitioning to Estonian-medium instruction. Upper secondary schools and vocational schools teach in Estonian. There are some exceptions, such as in schools that follow the IB curriculum, where teaching may continue in another language.

Schools may apply for state funding if they provide at least two of the following support services for pupils who have recently arrived in Estonia: (1) an individual curriculum; (2) Estonian-as-a-second-language lessons; (3) additional Estonian language lessons.

To support a child who has recently moved to Estonia at the start of their schooling, the school conducts a development review as soon as possible. The review involves the child, the parent (or guardian) and the class teacher, and other specialists may be included where necessary. Development reviews are held annually.

Additional information is available on the website of the Ministry of Education and Research: general education.