Events

“Reducing the numbers of young people leaving school early is a key investment not only in the prospects of each one of its young people but also in the future prosperity and social cohesion of the EU in general” (Tackling early school leaving: A key contribution to the Europe 2020 Agenda)  Preventing early school leaving is one of the top priorities in Europe. There are many reasons why pupils are in risk of dropping out of school: e.g. personal or family problems, learning difficulties, or fragile socio-economic situation. In addition, the way the education system is set up, school climate and teacher-pupil relations are also important factors to take into consideration when addressing the issue.  The purpose of Flexible Basic Education (FBE) is to support pupils in grades 7–9, who are at risk of leaving school without the basic education certificate. Flexible Basic Education is provided in compliance with the statutes applicable to basic education and the National Core Curriculum in Finland.   A local authority may provide instruction preparing for basic education, voluntary additional basic education and activities within Flexible Basic Education in conjunction with grades 7 to 9.  The national programme for Flexible Basic Education (Joustava perusopetus, JOPO, in Finnish) was launched already in 2006.   FBE aims to reduce the number of drop-outs in basic education and to prevent exclusion by strengthening pupils' life management skills and their motivation to study. In addition, for pupils to complete the basic education syllabus, they are supported in their transition to the next stage of education and training and their capabilities for studying are developed. FBE is intended for those pupils in grades 7–9 who are underachieving in their studies and lack study motivation. FBE is also targeted for pupils who are assessed to be at risk of exclusion from further studies and working life. Cooperation between professional groups and various branches of administration and organizations is highlighted in the guidelines. Vocational institutions and general upper secondary schools, non-formal adult education institutions and youth workshops may also take part in this cooperation.  Many innovative teaching methods and activities developed in Flexible Basic Education have proved to reduce drop-outs. The aim of the seminar is to offer European teachers a forum to learn and exchange new ideas and tools to tackle early school leaving.

Results of the seminar:  - finding new ways to support pupils in risk of early school leaving  - sharing of tools and methods among teachers  - peer support   - facilitating the building of new transnational networks and projects within the theme of inclusion 

The seminar is open to participants within the field of school education. The seminar is targeted especially at teachers and other personnel working with pupils in grades 7–9 who are at risk of leaving school without the basic education certificate.