In future, one teacher can have a maximum of five pupils who require support in their class group.
A new law amendment reforming how learning support is provided in early childhood education, elementary schools, and upper secondary schools came into force this month.
The changes outlined in the government programme aim to provide earlier and more timely support, clarify support systems, and improve continuity across education levels.
Some Of The Key Changes
Previously, three levels of support were available to pupils: general, intensified and special support — this three-tier system will now be eliminated.
Pupils will receive more support within their own groups. For instance, schools will increase co-teaching, which means there will be two teachers in the classroom instead of one.
If the support provided in the group is not sufficient, it will be supplemented with pupil-specific support measures. There are plans to increase remedial teaching and offer it more during the school day instead of after other lessons.
In future, a teacher can have a maximum of five pupils who require support in their class group.
Only special education will continue to be provided in small groups, either partially or entirely, by administrative decision.
The 2025–2026 academic year serves as a transition period for these changes. As part of the reform, schools are required to hire more teachers and invest more time and money.
The reform may look different across schools due to varying current practices — some schools had already hired additional teachers in March, while others had not.
Minister of Education Anders Adlercreutz (SPP) recently explained that the learning support reforms aim to strengthen individual support within groups, rather than adjusting the overall curriculum according to the needs of those who need special support, as is often done now.
That method has led to most students missing out on learning everything essential, which leads to problems later on,” he said.
