Opintoohjaaja

Opintoohjaaja is a professional in the Finnish education system who provides guidance to students regarding studies and career planning. They operate mainly in comprehensive schools and secondary education settings, but may be found in other educational institutions as well. The core tasks include helping students with study planning, informing about educational and career options, and supporting decisions about pathways in upper secondary education, vocational education and training, and higher education. They also assist with applications and transitions to further studies or the labor market.

In practice, opintoohjaaja conducts individual and group guidance sessions, coordinates with teachers, school psychologists, social workers, and families, and participates in the creation of individual study plans and transition planning. They help students recognize their interests, strengths, and learning styles, set goals, and outline concrete steps to achieve them. Additionally, they may organize information events, career days, and workshops on study skills, time management, and admissions processes. They provide information about apprenticeships, scholarships, and required documentation, and help students navigate admissions procedures and multiple study options.

Qualifications for opintoohjaaja typically include a degree in education or social sciences with a focus on guidance and counseling. In practice, many opintoohjaajat are trained teachers or school counselors who have completed further training in guidance. The role is often defined at the municipal level within the Finnish education system, with duties aligned to the national core curricula and local policies. The opintoohjaaja works closely with other school staff and municipal education services to support students’ educational pathways and transitions.