Country information for Estonia - Teacher education for inclusive education
Initial teacher education
Universities and professional higher education institutions provide initial teacher education.
Vocational teachers and pre-primary teachers are trained at the first level of higher education, while basic and upper-secondary school teachers undertake the second cycle. The diploma and certificate awarded provide evidence of teaching qualifications.
Since 2004, graduates of initial teacher education may undergo an induction period lasting one academic year. During this time, the prospective teachers receive support from their tutors and universities.
Teacher training includes three components:
- General education studies
- Study related to specific subject(s)
- Professional study (educational science, psychology, didactics and practical training).
During initial teacher education, all students undertake training modules to prepare them to work with pupils with special educational needs.
Continuous professional development
The Ministry of Education launched continuing training programmes for teachers and school heads with implementation of inclusive education as the cross-cutting priority. Inclusive education is one of the main priorities of the in-service training courses (Source: Financing of Inclusive Education – Estonia Country Report).
The programme aims to improve the competency of teachers, academic staff and heads of educational institutions and, in turn, the learning outcomes of learners. The learning methods employed support:
- the individual development, creativity and enterprising and innovative spirit of learners;
- the implementation of principles of inclusive education;
- improved coping of learners with special educational needs across all levels and types of education (Source: Raising the Achievement of All Learners in Inclusive Education – Estonia Country Report).
Last updated 30/03/2020