Ireland Considers Finnish-Inspired Changes to Primary School Day After 30 Years

Dublin: Ireland is considering a major review of the primary school day, with the Government examining whether elements of Finland’s education model could be introduced to give children more opportunities for breaks, play and outdoor activities.

The review could examine school hours, break times and the way classroom time is structured across different primary school classes. The aim is to determine whether children would benefit from more regular opportunities to step away from lessons, play and spend time outdoors.

Finnish model under consideration

The proposal has been influenced by Finland’s education system, which was examined by members of the Irish parliamentary education committee during a visit to the country in January.

The committee found that Finnish pupils typically receive regular 15-minute breaks throughout the school day, along with sufficient time for lunch.

Supporters of the approach argue that regular breaks do not undermine learning. Instead, they can allow children to return to lessons more refreshed and focused. Shorter, more frequent breaks may also be particularly beneficial for younger pupils who find it difficult to remain seated for long periods.

School day has not been comprehensively reviewed since 1995

Ireland’s current arrangements for school hours, holidays and breaks are largely based on a 1995 Department of Education circular.

Almost three decades later, there are calls for the system to be reassessed in light of changes in children’s needs, family lifestyles and the wider education system.

One issue likely to attract significant attention is the different finishing times for junior and senior infant classes. Parents with children in different primary school years can sometimes have to make two separate school collections each day.

The review could consider whether changes to school schedules could make arrangements more practical for families.

Childcare remains a key consideration

Any move to alter school hours would have to take Ireland’s childcare arrangements into account.

Finland generally has an earlier school day than Ireland but also has a more extensive public childcare system. Ireland does not have an equivalent nationwide system, meaning any reduction or restructuring of school hours would need to consider the impact on working parents and childcare availability.

Social Democrats education spokesperson Jen Cummins has called for reforms across all primary classes, including more opportunities for play, longer lunch periods and additional time outdoors.

Sinn Féin education spokesperson Darren O’Rourke, meanwhile, said any changes should be developed following consultation with teachers, parents and school management. He also expressed opposition to simply reducing the length of the school day.

Teachers’ working hours also an issue

Simon Lewis, principal of Carlow Educate Together National School, said Ireland could learn from Finland’s approach, particularly in relation to children’s well-being.

He said greater opportunities for outdoor activity could have a positive effect on pupils’ mood and behaviour.

However, the Department of Education has stressed that no immediate changes should be expected.

The department has clarified that a formal review of the existing 1995 circular has not yet begun. Further research and consultation will be required before any decisions are made.

The department has also indicated that, even if the school day for infant classes were eventually reduced, this would not necessarily mean a reduction in teachers’ working hours.

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