BEST2027: The Ultimate Benchmarking Event

I will definitely try to implement some of the strategies mentioned during this event. The hands-on experience we gained showed us the Finnish way of life. I will share this amazing experience with my colleagues.

The Finnish educational system is a great inspiration to follow. I am grateful to have experienced the hospitality of the Finnish people, the beautiful nature and, most importantly, to have had an in-depth look at the way the nation cares for its future.

The best part of the experience was having the opportunity to work with truly professional equipment and in professional spaces, experiment with different techniques, and test our abilities while being “limited” to specific tasks. We were also encouraged to discuss new practices and approaches, which led us to ask questions, explore new ideas and think more creatively .

This was my first job shadowing experience, and I decided to participate because I was very curious to better understand the Finnish educational system. The experience was wonderful: the support from our tutor and from several teachers (who explained the unique features of their school in detail) along with the opportunity to observe a wide range of lessons, made this experience highly educational and full of valuable insights.

I would like to improve student well-being by involving teachers in organizing interesting physical and outdoor activities. My next steps are to share new knowledge and skills with my staff, and to share pedagogical observations with teachers and educators to create comfortable and welcoming spaces for both staff and students.

After two experiences, I can say that I loved both. They are very different, but so are the participants. I think perhaps the most enriching part is being in schools, in direct contact with teachers and students. The activities with fellow teachers are also, I believe, the greatest strength of this kind of event. Adapting what we have learned to our own educational communities can be difficult. Our cultures are very different, and it is not always possible to transfer these models. Nevertheless, we take home many ideas and a wonderful, very positive energy about the future.

In the program about forests at the science museum and at the end of the nature day on Friday, we worked in small groups on tasks that we then shared with the whole group. We like this model of learning and encourage you to use it whenever possible.

I loved the conversations we had about education systems around Europe. I feel like I have made friends with people all over the world. I hope to visit their schools and I hope they visit mine.

I am truly grateful to have been part of this educational and professional experience. Personally, I would like to thank you all for your hospitality while we were here. The whole experience was very informative. I have learnt and understood many things I will now use in my field of work.

What impressed me most during this course was the opportunity to discover an educational system that shows great coherence between institutions, schools, students, families, and the state. It works as real support for the needs of this territory and its culture. The word we were taught to describe the Finnish system is trust. I would say that the word I take home is coherence. The Finnish system cannot be copied exactly as it is, but the main lesson it teaches is cooperation between all the people involved in education and the school system.

From the school visits and the sightseeing, I got the whole picture of how Finland educates future generations and develops their skills to cope with upcoming adventures and challenges. I really recommend joining this program to get some insights into your current teaching methods!

It was a great experience because I had the opportunity to learn and see how Finnish education works, and it was also an opportunity to meet teachers from other countries and share knowledge and enjoyable free time with them.

We got to see the Finnish education system through different lenses: a student, a teacher, a parent, an administrator and the community. I have learnt through the Finnish style of education that you don’t learn by sitting all day, but rather by doing, interacting, experiencing and having fun through meaningful activities. Our experience defined Finnish education and culture for us.

Personally, I was able to take away a lot of new ideas and suggestions from the HEAT2023 program and I will start the school year that starts here very motivated. In particular, I was able to take some new suggestions with me regarding group work with schoolchildren and excursions to extracurricular learning locations. I was also very impressed by the personal responsibility of the Finnish students, which I would like to pass on to my students.

This was a valuable experience because I had the opportunity to see teachers and pupils in action during lessons and other activities both in the classroom and outdoors. I really appreciated the game-based teaching methodologies, the use of different learning environments, the different approach of the teachers towards the students and the organization of the various activities. I have seen flexible spaces and ergonomic furnishings for the benefit of pupils' well-being. I have drawn inspiration from what I have seen in order to be able to apply some aspects to Italian school system. I appreciated the attention given to the pupils and their autonomy throughout their training process.

This was a valuable experience because it allowed me to reflect on my own teaching practices, discover innovative approaches, and gain inspiration from the Finnish education system.

It was an experience I will remember for the rest of my life. The opportunity to live in different countries and meet people from such diverse backgrounds is the most attractive aspect of the program. It's a moment of great personal growth thanks to the interaction with a different school system and different colleagues.

I learned about a functional school organisation. As tecnologi teacher in middle school, I see good examples of practical activities and useful economic lessons, that I can offer to my students.

Erasmus was a valuable experience as a teacher because it allowed me to step outside my comfort zone, learn about different teaching environments and teaching styles, and develop greater cultural awareness

This was a valuable experience because it gave me the opportunity to observe innovative teaching methods, especially in STEM education, and understand how inclusion is successfully implemented in Finnish schools. I return home inspired and enriched, both personally and professionally.

I learned about different ways of applying theory. I have liked shorts breaks for the pupils between the lessons. I liked a lot the organisation of materials and spaces in the classroom. An the last thing I liked a lot that all the student have very embraced the methodology.

This visit was a truly valuable experience because I not only observed classrooms, but also learned about the history of why Finland became an advanced country in education, as well as many other aspects. These insights will deeply inspire my own piano education in Japan.

This was a very valuable experience because the programme prioritizes social inclusion, green transitions, and digital transformation. I learned about a school system that realizes the concept of equity in education and gender equality in such an effective way.

A beautiful phrase that lies at the heart of the Finnish education system will remain forever in my mind and in my heart: “to feel, to know, to act.” Finnish schools teach students not only to learn, but also how to live and to be responsible individuals. This approach combines emotions, knowledge, and action, helping students grow both academically and as active members of society.

This was a valuable experience because I enriched my knowledge of teaching with active methodologies, tools, and strategies that promote student engagement, collaboration, and critical thinking. Throughout this experience, I had the opportunity to explore innovative approaches that place learners at the center of the educational process, encouraging them to take an active role in constructing their own knowledge.

I learned about different teaching approaches and strategies used in the host school. This was a valuable experience because it broadened my professional perspective and exposed me to new educational practices.

This was a truly valuable experience because it allowed me to observe daily school life from the inside: participating in lessons, reflecting on the organization of the school day, and discovering how learning spaces are designed to support students’ wellbeing and autonomy. It was deeply enriching both professionally and personally.

I learn about how can play music 20 children together, in one classroom.I learnd the methodic of a playing in a band. Methodic of a starting to play kantele, drums, giutar, several percusion instruments.

My Job Shadowing experience in Vantaa was a profound journey into the heart of Finnish education. I learned that true inclusion isn't about expensive technology, but about creating a sensory-friendly environment where tools like chewy jewellery and silent zones are as natural as pen and paper. This was a valuable experience because it showed me how to seamlessly weave environmental ethics and digital literacy into the language curriculum. I’m returning to Serbia not just with new methods, but with a new vision: that a classroom built on trust, calm routines, and deep empathy is the key to every child's success. It was, quite simply, professional inspiration at its best!

By observing physics lessons in a Finnish upper secondary school, I discovered an approach to teaching where trust, calmness, and student autonomy are at the heart of classroom life. This led me to reflect on my own teaching posture and to consider new ways to encourage active participation and independence among my students. I learned a great deal about implementing more open-ended inquiry-based activities, where experimentation, constructive mistakes, and peer discussion are fully valued. I also strengthened my skills in pedagogical observation, practice analysis, and adapting lesson plans to promote cooperation and critical thinking. Beyond teaching methods, this immersion helped me develop strong intercultural competencies: understanding another educational system, exchanging with colleagues who have different approaches, and gaining perspective on my own professional habits. I return with concrete ideas, renewed motivation, and a broader vision of what a caring, demanding, and truly student‑centered teaching approach can look like

Through the Erasmus+ Job Shadowing experience, I gained fresh insights into how Finnish educational institutions approach visual communication and marketing. This experience inspired new creative ideas that I can apply at BEST-Sabel.

As an English teacher, observing the Finnish education system was incredibly valuable. I was particularly impressed by their natural approach to language acquisition and the seamless integration of digital tools. This experience gave me practical ideas on how to make English more communicative and relevant for my students.

As an educator from the USA, it was a valuable experience seeing how Finland has embraced vocational education, realizing that not all students may attend college or university. I enjoyed the primary and high school visits the most. Thank you very much!

The study tour abroad was a valuable experience because it provided me with the opportunity to acquire new knowledge, while at the same time adding to my perspective of a high-quality education.

The program was relevant to me. I saw a lot of different schools, spoke to teachers about their jobs and to students about their education. As a result, it gave me a very good impression of the Finnish school system. We need more creativity in our education.

I have seen some lessons I want to implement in my own lessons and classroom. I also saw and heard a lot about the trust between students, teachers and parents. I want to see what I can do with that in the Netherlands.

I understood how different our school system's approach is towards students and how important it is to put their goals and skills as the primary purpose of the school. I improved my English skills and got to know a profoundly different culture where sociality and the common good are at the center of everything.

We spent a great time in a country that is so different from ours. We had a very warm welcome. And were so happy that youngs and adults spoke so well english as well as some french. We learnt a lot about Finnish education. It is such a source of inspiration. I will invite my colleagues to visit scandinavian countries. Many thanks again for all the arrangments.

It was a valuable experience because it allowed me to compare different school systems and a different way of conceiving school, both from a didactic point of view and on the structure and setting. I was struck by the education of the children and by the silence present in the classrooms during lessons and breaks.

The experience was an opportunity to compare my skills and educational approaches with those of my Finnish colleagues. I was able to understand the Finnish education system and improve my language skills. This exchange was enriching both professionally and personally, promoting meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

I am a special education teacher, and I really enjoyed observing how disability and, in general, special needs are addressed in another country. From this experience, I gained new valuable insights in terms of methodologies and relationships with students. I believe that, thanks to this experience, I will be able to make some improvements to my way of working and involve my colleagues in the perspective of continuous professional growth

I learned about a different Educational system, a different vision and organization of school. This experience opened my mind, gave me new ideas and professional motivation. A beautiful experience that I recommend to everyone.

I had the opportunity to accompany professionals from various fields in their daily routines, which allowed me to observe closely how activities are carried out. Participating and interacting in different disciplines was essential to understanding the methodologies and work methods used.

It was a valuable experience because it allowed me to get to know the Finnish school system closely and only with direct observation can you evaluate several important factors. Now I have much clearer ideas and I can really evaluate how to apply some teaching strategies in my profession.

I learned that it is possible to work with a different attitude when it comes to student behavior, their autonomy and the way they perform tasks. I gathered ideas for different activities that combine a high level of difficulty with strategies that make them fun. I saw the benefits of using appropriate furniture and creating welcoming spaces at school. I consolidated the principles that should guide the evaluation of students and systems. It was a valuable experience because it allowed for close contact, in context.

This experience was important for analyzing, comparing, and redefining the way we approach education. It will undoubtedly have implications for my personal and professional life, bringing us closer to implementing improvement actions that help us provide all the necessary conditions for our students to learn, ensuring that no one is left behind.

The job shadowing program was a valuable experience because I got an insight into the Finnish school system and school life. I learned about the curriculum and exam tasks and reflected on different teaching methods. A positive side effect is that you can delve into the culture of another country which helps you to broaden your horizons.

It was a valuable experience because it allowed me to see firsthand how flexibility and listening can transform learning into a daily pleasure. I learned that educational excellence comes from a perfect balance between innovation and hospitality. I return home deeply inspired and eager to share the same energy I experienced in Finland with my students. Thank you so much.

I learned not only about the Finnish education system, but also about the culture and people. This was a valuable experience because I had the chance to visit Helsinki, Vantaa, and Tampere, where I met an amazing, welcoming, and kind population. The Finnish language is beautiful, and people are very supportive when you try to learn it. We also had the opportunity to attend a hockey game in Tampere, which was an unforgettable experience. I truly fell in love with Finland.

Thank you for these opportunities to broaden our horizons and for the quality of the observations. The exchanges and observations of European practices are very enriching for us, and also for sharing with our students.

This Erasmus+ Job Shadowing was a window into the future of education. I learned that innovation is not just about technology, but about atmosphere, trust, and community. This was a valuable experience because it completely recharged my professional passion. I’m going back home with a suitcase full of ideas and a heart full of memories!

You have chosen a really good school for us. Both Nina, the teacher in charge of guiding us through the process, and the rest of the teachers and students have been very attentive to us and have shown us how the Finnish school system works. We have learned a lot and now we will try to apply what we can in our own school. Really good job with the school chosen.

I had the opportunity to take part in a one-week Erasmus+ Job Shadowing visit at a school in Finland. This was a very valuable experience for me because it allowed me to observe different teaching methods, gain new perspectives on education, and learn from highly professional and welcoming staff. The experience was truly inspiring and will stay with me for a long time.

A very beautiful experience in Finland that allowed me to discover and better understand a way of functioning as well as a culture different from ours, within an establishment perfectly chosen for this. The welcome on site, the living environment, and the program offered throughout the week were excellent. Thank you!

I learned so much about innovative teaching techniques and classroom management during my time abroad. This Erasmus+ opportunity was a career highlight that provided me with a wealth of new ideas and a broader professional network

I learned a great deal about innovative teaching practices and student-centered learning during my Erasmus+ Job Shadowing experience in Finland. This was a truly valuable experience because it allowed me to observe how education can be both effective and engaging, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity, wellbeing, and collaboration. It has inspired me to reflect on my own teaching methods and incorporate new ideas into my classroom.

It was an enriching experience to learn about the education system in Finland, a reality quite different from my own. I take away many valuable insights, as well as several ideas for improving my educational practice.

It was a wonderful experience because, as a teacher and architect, I was able to visit contemporary architecture, in particular the Helsinki library and the Kruunuvuorensilta pedestrian bridge inaugurated on April 18th.

I was really impressed by the freedom and autonomy of the students, who moved from one classroom to another to take part in different activities. I liked that they could freely choose which workshop to attend. I especially enjoyed the workshops in sewing, cooking, dance, and art, because some of these could also teach skills useful for a future job. i also appreciated the large, welcoming spaces, with a chicken coop and vegetable garden, which help students understand and respect the environment. I was struck by seeing self-sufficient students in the cafeteria, serving themselves, clearing their tables, and tidying up. They interacted naturally with younger children, without any problems. This is the atmosphere i experienced- seeing a school so different from ours.

The job shadowing experience was highly educational. I was able to closely observe the daily school routine, teaching methods, and the organization of activities, comparing them directly with my own context. This comparison allowed me to notice important differences in the teaching approach and in the management of spaces and the well-being of both students and teachers. On top of that, there was the human value of the experience: the exchange with colleagues was both friendly and professional, which made the whole process even more meaningful. I believe that some of the practices I observed could also be useful in my school to improve the quality of teaching and the overall atmosphere.

This was a very valuable experience because we had the opportunity to learn about the Finland education system and observe innovative teaching methods in a real school environment. We were especially impressed by the students’ autonomy and by the way the school promotes responsibility, well-being, and active learning. At the same time, it was useful to reflect on how this educational model is deeply connected to Finnish culture and society, which are quite different from the Italian context. For this reason, it would be difficult to apply the same system directly in Italy, but observing it gave us valuable ideas and inspiration to adapt some positive aspects to our own teaching practice.

This was a highly valuable experience because I had the opportunity to observe innovative, student-centered teaching practices. I was particularly inspired by the English language lessons, which were interactive and focused on real communication

Participation in this Job Shadowing program, with direct observation classes; interaction with teachers and educational staff; sharing of pedagogical practices between institutions; and participation in cultural and integration activities, was a richly enriching experience, allowing me to acquire new perspectives on teaching and vocational training, highlighting student autonomy, school well-being, and pedagogical innovation. I also emphasize the importance of European cooperation in promoting a more comprehensive and innovative vision of education and vocational training. Participation in this Erasmus program, with the reinforcement of English language skills and the acquisition of basic knowledge of Finnish in a multicultural environment, strengthened my intercultural adaptation and communication skills, also allowing me to develop strong camaraderie with Portuguese colleagues, fellow travelers, and colleagues from the host school, promoting an environment of cooperation, cultural sharing, and support.

This was a valuable experience because I was able to practice my English, I realised the importance of subjects like art to increase creativity and provide a break from other subjects, I was able to value of computer tools in all subjects, I saw the importance of the well-being of both teachers and students and I saw a strong awareness of nature and environmental protection

In finnish pre-primary education, we really liked the orientation towards practical activities, the minimalism which is positiv for good attention of children and the fact that inclusion takes place naturally up to 6 years of age without diagnosing children considering the number of adults per child, it is realistically manageable. We also liked the relationships between emloyees and the work atmosphere..

This was a very valuable experience because I learned new ways of teaching and saw how Finnish education helps students become more independent. I will use these ideas in my own school.

We were able to compare the way our school operates with a similar school in Estonia, draw inspiration from their practices, share experiences, and exchange strategies for dealing with challenging situations at school.

This valuable experience gave me the unique opportunity to experience the Finnish school system, learn about it, and meet new colleagues with whom I will keep in touch to share our teaching experiences.

The organisation was excellent, with great attention to detail and constant support throughout the experience. Even from a distance, the organisers were always available and attentive, making us feel supported and guided during all the activities.

It was a truly valuable experience, as I had the chance to see how colleagues in another country work. I learned a lot in a short time and gained new ideas that I can implement in my own practice. This experience will definitely support my professional development, and I would be happy to recommend it to other colleagues.

I learned how important breaks between lessons are for kids, a different organization, and inclusion strategies. It was a positive experience because it encouraged me to diversify some strategies in order to improve learning.

È stata una esperienza molto positiva e importante. La preparazione dei docenti molto efficace e il loro modo di porgere la lezione molto rilassante e pacata, mai repressiva. I vari laboratori attrezzatissimi consentivano un apprendimento ottimo nelle diverse discipline . Ripeterei l’esperienza altamente educativa con piacere

It was an experience that enriched me a lot because I learned about teaching and educational methodologies different from those I practice and it stimulated me to modify and improve my practices.

Byla to cenná zkušenost, možnost seznámit se se systémem základního finského školství. V praxi vidět práci se žáky se speciálními vzdělávacími potřebami. Velmi inspirativní byl systém školního stravování formou samoobslužných jídelen.

I was able to gain so much insight into my current role by connecting with others who are as passionate as I am. They work in a different country and setting, but we are connected through our commitment to our role.

The conference was so well organized and well worth the cost and travel time! The conference included many different learning experiences as well as some fun activities available each day! A valuable and memorable experience!

This week was an absolute extraordinary experience. I got to learn so much about the school system but also about the Finnish culture. I felt so welcome and nature is so beautiful. I got enthusiastic about inclusion. You inspired me. Thanxxxx for everything.

LIFE 2026 überzeugt durch ein sehr umfangreiches Programm und eine sehr gute Organisation. Die Veranstaltung bietet gewinnbringende Erkenntnisse für das Lernen der Zukunft und einen gelungenen Mix aus Praxiserfahrungen, Austausch vor Ort und einer wissenschaftlichen Basis. Besonders wertvoll ist der internationale Rahmen, der eine hervorragende Vernetzung mit Kolleginnen und Kollegen aus der ganzen Welt ermöglicht.

This experience was inspiring and challenging to our thinking and belief system. What a beautiful and positive experience! We will be returning to continue learning from the lovely Finnish people and systems, as well as the teachers from all around the world!

What an incredible week. We’re often hearing about Finland everywhere around the world. But to be able to see from our own eyes, be IN the schools, with teachers, students has such an impact. Thanks to all members of the organization. It takes such good collaboration to host an event of this wingspan, kiitos. Congrats to all.

This is the most valuable experience I have had after teaching for 20 years! Thank you to this amazing team of people for your passion and sharing your way of life here in Finland. Every teacher should attend at least one Life event in their lifetime.

I leave this seminar with 4 key words: enthusiasm, vision, balance, relaxation, and the phrase “Less is more.” It showed me where I am now and in which direction I need to go next, both as a teacher and as a person.

Life26 was an inspiring and unforgettable experience, showing how the Finnish education system sets a powerful example for the whole world to learn from and adopt. The program beautifully combined learning, culture, and meaningful connections. Suvi and Johanna were exceptionally kind, supportive, and shared deep insights that enriched the entire experience. Kiitos Life26 for creating such a wonderful platform for global learning and collaboration.

An excellent opportunity to get to know Finnish education in an unparalleled setting. Thanks to the careful planning of the program, we were able to visit Helsinki, the Educa fair, and Rovaniemi during Live 2026. In addition, the alternative activities were a true luxury to enjoy. A gift and a memory to cherish forever.