Over the past two days we have visited two schools, Mankkaanpuron (6-12) and Mankkaa (12-16). Both schools were IT specialists. Every pupil in Grade 6 (Year 7) at Mankkaanpuron had their own google chrome laptop that they used in lessons and were able to take home. They used google classroom during lessons to set tasks. The classrooms are very varied some lessons are more formal at tables and some the children could work where the were comfortable. All tables and chairs heighten meaning children can work standing up, sitting down on a chair or stool or even gym balls. There is NO uniform and the children are allowed to wear what they feel comfortable in and they are allowed to listen to headphones during a lesson. The children usually work independently and any topic work is child led. We saw the children producing a variety of presentations about space, some made quizzes for others, some made oral presentations, some made PowerPoints. This style of work was the same for both schools. In Mankkaa we were shown around by 3 pupils, they all spoke 4 languages, Lilian, one of our guides, actually spoke an incredible seven languages by the age of 14. In Mankkaa they have three hours of cookery per week! Tonight we have been in to Helsinki to see the Christmas lights, we went to a hotel which had a balcony on the 14th floor here we had an amazing view of Helsinki! I am thoroughly enjoying my visit. Hopefully going north on Saturday in search of the northern lights! Nos Dda pawb!

Mr Allen