kooliõpe

Kooliõpe refers to formal school-based instruction in Estonia, encompassing basic education and upper secondary education. It is governed by the Education Act and the national curriculum (riiklik õppekava) administered by the Ministry of Education and Research, and implemented by local municipalities and schools. A key aim is to provide broad literacy, numerical, and social skills, and to prepare for work or further studies.

The most common pathway begins with põhikool (basic school) from grade 1 to 9, typically from ages around 7 to 16. After completing põhikool, students may continue to gümnaasium (upper secondary school) for grades 10–12, or pursue vocational secondary education. Completion of upper secondary education yields a diploma and eligibility for higher education. Some schools combine these stages into a single comprehensive school.

The national curriculum sets learning objectives and required subjects, including Estonian language and literature, foreign languages, mathematics, science, social studies, arts and music, physical education, and life skills. Schools offer electives and additional programs, including special education. Student assessment uses ongoing teacher assessments and, at key stages, national examinations. The final examinations at the end of upper secondary are commonly used for university admission.

Public schooling is free for compulsory education; municipalities fund schools. Private and international schools exist. Instruction is primarily in Estonian, with options for instruction in minority languages and foreign language instruction. Estonia emphasizes inclusive education and the use of digital tools in kooliõpe.

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