Õpetajana

Õpetajana is the essive form of the Estonian noun õpetaja and is used to denote the role of a person who works as a teacher. In Estonian, õpetaja means “teacher,” and the form õpetajana expresses “as a teacher” (the essive case). It appears in sentences such as ta töötab õpetajana, meaning “they work as a teacher.”

Role and responsibilities: A teacher educates and supports students across educational levels, including early childhood, basic and secondary education, vocational training, and special education. Typical duties include planning and delivering lessons, assessing student learning, managing classroom dynamics, supporting individual students, and collaborating with colleagues, parents, and school administration.

Education and qualifications: In Estonia, becoming an õpetaja generally requires a university degree in education or in a subject area with pedagogical training, plus a professional teaching qualification. For those working in public schools, the teaching credential is regulated by national education policies. Ongoing professional development is common and supported by the system.

Variations and contexts: The term covers various teaching roles, including kindergarten teachers, class teachers, subject teachers, and special education teachers. The label emphasises the profession rather than a particular subject. The profession is shaped by national education goals, inclusive practices, and collaboration within the school and broader educational community.