Why Estonia Has Europe’s Best Schools
Estonia's Educational Success: Free Meals, Creative Breaks, and Content Teachers
How has this small, relatively less affluent nation become a European education leader? Their answer lies in creativity, freedom, and a wholehearted embrace of the digital world.
At Pelgulinna State Gymnasium, a cutting-edge upper secondary school in Tallinn, Estonia's capital, it's Thursday. That means "voluntary" lesson day, a time when students choose their own educational adventure. Today, a group of 17-year-olds are deep in a sci-fi class, dissecting the iconic film Blade Runner. Just before my quiet entrance, their conversation flowed seamlessly into perfect English.
Emphasis on Creative Learning
"We've explored Jungian archetypes, the very idea of what makes us human," Triin explains enthusiastically. It seems no topic is off-limits; their discussion veers from dystopian fiction like Brave New World to the complexities of 2001: A Space Odyssey. History, ethics, and the very nature of empathy become woven into their analysis. Triin, like myself, leaves the room with more questions than answers. How has Estonia, often overshadowed by its wealthier European neighbours, achieved such educational excellence?
Estonia's PISA Rankings and Educational Principles
The country consistently earns top European rankings in the OECD's Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA), which evaluates teenagers in key subjects like math and science. There's a clear emphasis on well-roundedness – highly skilled teachers, curricula bursting with artistic and technical subjects, and a focus on the student's overall well-being. No wonder UK politicians are seeking inspiration from this Baltic nation.
Gunda Tire, a key figure in Estonia's educational assessments, attributes this success to the nation's unique history and location.
Historical and Cultural Influences
"Estonians learned long ago that their survival depended on intelligence," she says. "Education was a guiding star, even during difficult times like the Soviet occupation."
A bedrock principle of their system is equality. Free school lunches nourish both bodies and minds, removing a key barrier to learning. Subsidized kindergarten ensures most children enter school on a level playing field. But there's more to it – Estonian schools are given wide latitude for choosing their own paths.
Estonia's digital revolution extends deep into its classrooms. The 1997 "Tiger Leap" initiative modernized school infrastructure and made internet access universal. "It's not about isolated computer classes," Tire explains. "Digital skills are woven into everything." Robotics and coding are commonplace, and even textbooks have gone virtual. Tire emphasizes that the approach isn't always about discipline; struggling students often benefit from tailored instruction in smaller groups, and mental health professionals are a standard presence in schools.
Creativity and the Arts in Curriculum
Creativity is far from an afterthought. "Music, art, even practical skills like cooking – these are mandatory," says Tire. "We believe this fosters well-being and a sense of achievement." Tire smiles, pointing out that even a complex piece of music teaches important skills like collaboration and problem-solving. It's a contrast to the test-obsessed educational systems found elsewhere.
To progress into upper secondary school (similar to sixth form in the UK), students take just three exams – maths, Estonian, and a subject of their choice. It's a far cry from the high-pressure, multi-exam systems found in many countries. "That's a lot," Cordelia Violet Paap, a 17-year-old student at Pelgulinna State, tells me. "I'd be a lot more stressed."
Paap says the school's focus on creativity makes learning far more enjoyable than a traditional, lecture-based approach. Her classmate, Targo Tammela, has just come from a Nordic history class but doesn't see this approach as lacking in discipline. "There are still expectations, and you have to pass your tests," he emphasizes. Neither student is particularly enthusiastic about Estonia's digital education system, but it's a pervasive part of their school life. Technology is always available, and most lessons and assessments happen online. "There are downsides," Tammela admits, "it's easy to get distracted online, but overall, it's a good thing."
It's early afternoon at the Gustav Adolf Grammar school. Located within Tallinn's charming old town, it caters to younger students. As the school day ends, I watch from the front gate as children walk home alone or in small groups. "They tend to be very independent," explains Henrik Salum, the school's young and approachable headteacher.
Stepping inside, the school surprises me. While the facade is historic, the interior has been thoroughly modernized, airy and filled with natural light. There are dedicated spaces for activities as diverse as boxing and dance. The huge central atrium, which doubles as the lunch area, even has a stage for performances. Students relax on tiered seating, doing homework or simply socializing. It's a remarkably harmonious atmosphere.
Addressing Behavioral Issues
Of course, behavioural issues still exist. "Every day there's something we need to address, helping students understand how to respect each other," Salum admits. He emphasizes consistent parental involvement and keeping a watchful eye on those needing a little extra support. The overall impression, however, is one of a happy and well-adjusted student body. I spot quiet corners filled with comfy cushions scattered throughout, perfect for small group work or solo study. It's evident that flexibility is a core part of their approach.
Inside classrooms, the focus seems firmly on student engagement. A group of eight and nine-year-olds silently work on individual summaries of a book they've just read together. Nearby, a lively English lesson splits a class of 12 and 13-year-olds into smaller groups, ensuring everyone has a chance to speak and be heard. Class sizes top out at around 28, but it's clear a lot of effort goes into personalized learning.
Flexible Learning Environments
Maria Toom's class of 10 and 11-year-olds welcomes me with a chorus of "tere" (hello) and impeccable English. Some stay back to chat, eager to share memories of kindergarten and its playful naptimes. Toom explains that here, they get short "brain breaks" instead. These breaks involve movement or quick, engaging games, keeping lessons fresh.
"Estonian schools and teachers have lots of freedom," explains Salum. National standards exist, but the path to achieving them is up to each school. While Toom has access to digital tools, she's equally likely to take lessons outdoors or even onto the roof terrace armed with old-fashioned paper and pencils. "It gives flexibility," she says, "and helps students learn that they can take their skills anywhere."
As we tour the school, Salum's warm rapport with the children is clear. Hugs are common, and there's a genuine sense of connection between the headteacher and his students. "It's important for them to see us as partners in their learning," he says, "it breaks down barriers." Many teachers are former students of the school, a source of pride for Salum.
But it's not all smooth sailing. Like many headteachers, Salum is struggling to recruit enough teachers. Even with the demanding master's degree requirement (bachelor's for kindergarten teachers), salaries remain comparatively low, especially considering Estonia's booming tech sector. This worrying trend led to Estonia's first teacher strike in recent years.
Teachers' pay "is a problem all over the world," says Kristina Kallas, Estonia's education minister. We meet in her office, and she emphasizes that education systems are constantly facing funding pressures. However, Estonia's current situation is particularly challenging. "There's the ongoing economic downturn," she explains, "and naturally, any budget surplus is being prioritized for defense due to the precarious situation." With Russia as a neighbour and events unfolding in Ukraine, security is a major concern.
Estonia's Bottom-Up Education Structure
Kallas believes a key strength of Estonia's education system is its bottom-up structure. "It's never been heavily controlled by [central government]," she says, "the system is actually older than the state itself." Surprisingly, there aren't many politicians seeking to change this dynamic. "Debates happen, of course, mostly led by teachers and universities," Kallas says, "but it's not about politicians dictating the details."
Naturally, some issues remain on Kallas's radar. While Estonia fared well during the pandemic thanks to its pre-existing digital learning capabilities, a concerning recent trend has been teenage boys dropping out of school at higher rates. Additionally, while Estonia lacks an elite private school system, wealth disparities mean some families relocate solely for access to the best schools. "It's a trend I don't like," says Kallas firmly, "it undermines the equity that's so important to our system's success."
Pelgulinna State Gymnasium is undoubtedly one of those exceptional schools. Brand new (it opened less than a year ago), it's part of a nationwide initiative to build more secondary schools. The building itself is impressive– spacious and modern, with a focus on natural light and materials. There are quiet, comfortable alcoves carved into the walls, inviting students to focus or collaborate. Bike parking for 300 students reflects the healthy lifestyle focus, while the library could rival that of a small university. However, a sobering reminder of the real world intrudes – this morning, army officers were leading a "defence education" class for older students, a direct result of last year's curriculum changes.
Combining Modern and Traditional Teaching Methods
Teachers here use a blend of modern and traditional methods. Agne Kosk, head of languages, was overseeing the thought-provoking sci-fi lesson. "Today's students want to express themselves, to be part of the discussion," she explains. Rote learning from textbooks is far less effective. Perhaps most importantly, she emphasizes the teacher-student relationship as paramount. "Without a genuine connection, the rest doesn't matter." Estonia's system seems uniquely good at fostering these connections, from its informal atmosphere to its focus on well-supported, happy teachers.
Back in her sci-fi class, the bond between Kosk and her students is clear. They've even created a playful hashtag on the board – a testament to her positive impact. Kosk sparks their discussion with a question about their notes from the first half of Blade Runner. Talk of empathy tests, the nature of humanity, and even a bit of film history effortlessly weaves its way through the class. As their screen flickers back to life, students settle in attentively. It's clear that here, learning is a joyful and thought-provoking adventure.
While Estonia's success is undeniable, it faces a significant demographic challenge. Its birthrate is low, and its population is shrinking. "We’re already struggling with workforce shortages in many sectors," Salum, the headteacher, had admitted earlier. "So losing potential teachers to other industries is doubly painful."
Kallas, the education minister, is keenly aware of this. "We need to find ways to make education a more attractive and rewarding career path,” she acknowledges. "And not only with salaries – it's about improving working conditions and ensuring teachers feel valued." She's also exploring ways to streamline teacher qualifications, with pathways for professionals in other fields to transition into teaching more easily.
Building New Schools and Fostering Innovation
The issue of resources extends beyond staffing. Technology, a cornerstone of Estonian education, is a constant expense. "Our schools achieved a lot during the pandemic," Kallas explains, "but now we need to think about how we maintain that momentum." It seems impossible to discuss digital education without the topic of the digital divide arising.
"We're working on it," Kallas assures me. "There are still some households without the right internet access or devices. Ensuring every child has equal learning opportunities is a constant focus." She mentions partnerships with telecom companies and device-sharing programs, but acknowledges it remains a work in progress.
Yet, the focus on creativity and innovation remains a hallmark of Estonian education. Schools like Pelgulinna State Gymnasium are designed to spark those very traits. Their spacious, dedicated maker-spaces are buzzing with student projects – some are 3D printing prototypes, others are tinkering with electronics. A group proudly shows me the mini-greenhouse they designed, complete with automated watering and lighting systems.
"I used to hate math and science," one girl with bright pink hair admits. "But when we get to actually build things, it changes everything. Now, I want to figure out the technical side so I can make my ideas real." It's a testament to the power of hands-on, project-based learning.
Combining Modern and Traditional Teaching Methods
This spills over into extracurricular activities too. Robotics clubs are wildly popular, drawing students of all ages. "It's not about creating the next generation of engineers," the club's volunteer supervisor, himself a recent graduate, tells me. "It's problem-solving, learning to collaborate… these skills transfer to anything they might choose to do."
Estonia's system isn't just about preparing students for university. Vocational training holds equal importance. "We need skilled tradespeople, entrepreneurs, artists," Kallas had emphasized when we spoke. A major renovation is underway at Tallinn's Vocational Education Centre. Brand new facilities will cover everything from cutting-edge healthcare simulation labs to traditional construction trades.
"We bring in companies, industry leaders, to help us design the curricula," explains the centre's director, Margus Nõlvak. "That way, we know our students are leaving with the exact skills employers need." He highlights the importance of constant flexibility – as technology evolves, so must vocational training.
Nõlvak walks me through immaculate workshops. Apprentice chefs bustle in gleaming kitchens, while anging from the ceiling of another spacious room is the fuselage of a small aircraft, meticulously maintained by trainee aviation mechanics. This emphasis on practical skills feels both refreshing and perfectly in tune with Estonia's innovative spirit.
Student Engagement and Thoughtful Learning
As progressive as Estonia's system may seem, concerns about its long-term effects do exist. Some critics worry that the focus on creativity and the relaxed atmosphere might not adequately prepare students for the rigors of university education. Others question the heavy reliance on technology, fearing it diminishes attention spans and hampers children's development of essential handwriting and analog thinking skills.
Tire, who works with international assessments, brushes off the first concern. "Our students do very well at university, both here in Estonia and abroad," she says confidently. "The skills they learn – critical thinking, independence, collaboration – are far more important than simply memorizing facts." She acknowledges that the digital debate is more complex and that Estonia is constantly monitoring the situation to adjust its approach where necessary.
"It's not about technology for technology's sake," she emphasizes. "It's a tool. But like any tool, it needs to be used correctly." Many schools are incorporating mindfulness practices and ensuring ample outdoor learning time to counteract the always-online atmosphere.
At Tallinn University, students I speak with seem largely positive about their secondary school experience. "At first, university felt very different, almost overwhelming," Lisette, a second-year biology student, admits. "But then I realized how much I'd learned about self-management and taking initiative. Now, even big projects feel doable if I break them down the right way."
Her friend Mikk, who is studying law, feels similarly. "Of course, sometimes in high school I wished we'd just been told exactly what to learn for the test," he says with a grin. "But I wouldn't trade it. I'm definitely a better student here because of it."
Trying to Improve everyday
Estonia's system isn't perfect, but it seems refreshingly focused on the whole student. When visiting schools, there's a genuine sense of lightness that contrasts sharply with the pressure-cooker atmosphere found in some educational environments. Could the emphasis on well-being be a key factor in their success?
"Absolutely," says Kallas, the education minister. "We know unhappy children won't be successful learners. But it extends beyond the students – teacher happiness matters just as much." She points to recent initiatives focusing on teacher mental health and providing more resources to help with workload burdens.
As I leave Estonia, I can't help but reflect that this focus on happiness seems deeply embedded in their approach to education. It's a philosophy clearly paying dividends, especially when looking at the PISA rankings.
Estonia's success story is one of innovation, practicality, and an unwavering belief in the importance of a well-rounded, equitable education. As the rest of the world scrambles for solutions to its educational problems, perhaps this small Baltic nation, with its brain breaks, comfy cushions, and focus on creativity, provides a blueprint worth considering.
