Bilingual education (English–Finnish) in Pori is organised as extensive bilingual education.* Extensive bilingual education forms a continuum that may begin with English‑language pre-primary education, and continue throughout basic education at Cygnaeus School (grades 1–6) and at Porin Lyseo School (grades 7–9). Studies are carried out in two languages, English and Finnish, so the pupil must be able to manage both languages.

During the first two school years of primary school, there is an emphasis on English in the teaching. In the later grades, the proportion of Finnish increases. A more detailed description of the use of the target language is provided separately. The aim by the end of primary school is bilingualism (English-Finnish), enabling the pupil to continue lower secondary education either in a Finnish or English language school.

At Cygnaeus School, bilingual instruction combines the teaching of a foreign language with the teaching of academic subjects, so that the foreign language functions both as a medium and as a subject of learning. The curriculum content and objectives in bilingual classes are the same as in Finnish language basic education. In implementing the curriculum, the language focus is visible in the way subject content and multidisciplinary learning modules are studied in English and partly in Finnish.

By varying the language used in instruction, pupils are supported in learning key concepts in both languages. It should be noted that instruction delivered in a foreign language places broader demands on the pupil than instruction in their native language. Both the pupil and guardians must commit to these requirements when beginning studies in bilingual education.

The objectives and content of English language learning are defined separately in the school curriculum. Studying Finnish is an important part of the studies for both native speakers of Finnish and learners of Finnish as a second language. Strong Finnish skills promote integration into Finnish society and open pathways to further studies.

* Extensive bilingual education refers to education in which at least 25% of the total basic education curriculum is provided in the target language.

Applying to Bilingual Education

Bilingual education is intended for pupils who, together with their guardians, are interested in the opportunities it offers and are willing to work towards its goals. English and Finnish language skills are tested for all applicants. When selecting pupils for bilingual education, the child’s ability to manage in both English and Finnish language instruction is taken into account.

When applying for grade 1, the pupil must have Finnish language skills. English is not required, but it is considered beneficial. When applying for grades 3–6, the pupil must also have English skills.

Pupil Selection

A child may apply to grade 1 of Cygnaeus School’s bilingual classes in the calendar year in which they turn seven. An aptitude test is organised for applicants to bilingual classes in February–March of the application year. Guardians are informed of the test date as soon as possible after registration, but no later than week 6.

The test is organised and assessed by a special education teacher and two to three teachers who are currently, or have previously been, involved in bilingual education.

Criteria for Selection to Bilingual Education

The aptitude test assesses the child’s:

• English and Finnish language skills
• Learning readiness

Scoring for the aptitude test is based on the principles of bilingual education as follows:

Language skills section:

• English: 0–5 points
• Finnish: 0–10 points

Learning readiness section:

• Readiness to learn: 1–5 points

Pupils are selected in order of total points. To be accepted, the applicant must achieve at least 7.5 points in the language section and at least 2.5 points in the learning readiness section. If several applicants receive the same score, selection is made by lottery.

A child may be admitted to grade 1 without an aptitude test if bilingual education is deemed to be in the child’s best interest when beginning schooling in Finland.

If the applicant is ill on the test day and unable to participate, a separate test date will be arranged once the child has recovered. Illness must be verified with a medical certificate before the test begins.

A maximum of 19 pupils are selected for grade 1, based on the tests. Schooling in bilingual education begins in the year when compulsory education starts, according to the Finnish Basic Education Act (Section 25). A child has the right to start school one year earlier if psychological assessments indicate readiness for schooling (Section 27).

Applicants who are not accepted in February but have reached the minimum score are placed on a waiting list in order of ranking. If places become available, pupils are selected from the waiting list up until the start of school in August.

When moving to Finland from abroad, a pupil enters the grade corresponding to their age. When applying to bilingual classes in grades 3–6, the pupil’s English and Finnish skills are tested. Transferring to bilingual education should generally occur at the beginning of the autumn or spring term, but can be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

If it becomes evident that studying in a language‑focused class is too demanding or causes difficulties in various subjects despite support measures, a transfer to a parallel Finnish language class may be recommended.