Tampere boosts mother tongue lessons to two weekly hours
From 1 August 2026 Tampere pupils will receive two hours of mother tongue instruction per week during the school year, and Language and Culture (KIEKU) lessons during the school day will continue, the city says.
From 1 August 2026 pupils in Tampere will receive two hours of mother tongue instruction per week during the school year, up from the current single hour held outside school time, the City of Tampere says. The education committee's decision also preserves Language and Culture (KIEKU) lessons during the school day.
Previously, mother tongue teaching consisted of one weekly hour outside the school day, supplemented by KIEKU lessons during school hours. Attendance will be mandatory for pupils registered for mother tongue classes. Guardians remain responsible for travel because groups are organised regionally and may meet away from a pupil's own school.
Teaching will be offered when it can be carried out with clear pedagogical guidance. Teachers must have pedagogical qualifications and sufficient Finnish language skills. A group will be formed if at least 12 pupils sign up.
Ulla Ojalammi, director of basic education, says the reform centres on teaching quality and that KIEKU will continue because it supports both Finnish and mother tongue learning. Deputy Mayor for Education Services Anne Mari Jussila adds the aim is a clear, functional model that supports learning and equality across the city.
The measure is non‑statutory and tied to the 2027 budget preparations and earlier savings agreements. It is expected to reduce annual costs by about €150,000. The changes were prepared in dialogue with Tampere's immigrant advisory board, and the city's mother tongue curriculum will be updated to match the new organisation.
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