Ammattikentän

Ammattikentän is a Finnish concept that plays a significant role in the country's vocational education system. The term refers to a work-based training or apprenticeship model that combines theoretical courses with practical work experience in a specific industry or profession.

In Ammattikentän, students, typically between the ages of 16 and 18, are placed in a work environment where they learn specific job skills and gain industry-specific knowledge. This approach is designed to link theoretical studies with real-world work experience, preparing students for an immediate career or further studies in their chosen field.

Ammattikentän is a collaboration between students, educational institutions, and employers. Educational institutions provide theoretical education, while employers offer the work environment, mentorship, and industry-specific skills training. The practical experience acquired through Ammattikentän is reflected in a students' professional competence, which is assessed and certified by national standards.

Ammattikentän has been part of the Finnish education system since the early 20th century, but its importance has increased in recent years. It is seen as a way to meet the needs of the Finnish economy, which places an emphasis on skilled workers. By enabling students to acquire vocational skills and knowledge early in their education, Ammattikentän aims to promote education and employment that match the requirements of the labor market.

The concept of Ammattikentän has been replicated in some other European countries, which shows that the Finnish education system is being studied and the concept is used as inspiration in e.g. nederland and some estadounidenses states