Erityisluokanerityiskoulu

Erityisluokanerityiskoulu, often translated as a special class special school or specialized special education school, refers to a type of educational institution in Finland designed to provide education for students with severe and complex special needs. These schools cater to a diverse range of disabilities and learning challenges that require highly individualized support and specialized pedagogical approaches. The curriculum and teaching methods are adapted to the specific needs of each student, often focusing on functional skills, life skills, and social-emotional development in addition to academic learning.

Students attending these schools typically have significant learning difficulties, intellectual disabilities, severe behavioral disorders, or multiple disabilities. The educational environment is structured to be highly supportive, with a low student-to-teacher ratio and access to a multidisciplinary team of professionals. This team may include special education teachers, therapists (such as speech, occupational, and physical therapists), psychologists, and social workers, all collaborating to create a comprehensive support plan for each child.

The goal of an erityisluokanerityiskoulu is to foster the development and well-being of students, enabling them to reach their full potential and participate as actively as possible in society. While the focus is on specialized education, these schools also aim to promote independence and prepare students for life after school, whether that involves further vocational training, supported living, or other forms of community integration. Access to these schools is typically determined through an assessment process conducted by educational authorities.