Bringing Quality Learning to Children Around the World
At HEI Schools, our mission is to provide high-quality education to children and their families around the world through a child-centered, play-based approach grounded in the Finnish education model.
We believe that every child should experience the joy of learning — not only as an ideal, but as a truth supported by extensive educational research.
The Beginning of HEI Schools
HEI Schools (Helsinki International Schools) was co-founded in 2016 by the University of Helsinki together with experts in education and design.
Rooted in Nordic values such as open education and equal access for all children, our mission has been to create a scalable model that delivers high-quality early childhood education around the world.
What makes HEI Schools truly unique is that the University of Helsinki is not only a founding partner but also a shareholder.
This allows us to continually update our curriculum based on the latest educational research, setting us apart from other education providers.
Our teacher training program is built on a high standard of professional development, with a strong emphasis on creativity.
This ensures that the HEI approach can be delivered with consistency and quality in classrooms across the globe.
The University of Helsinki ー A Founding Partner and Shareholder
The HEI Schools early childhood education model is based on Finland’s renowned educational philosophy and was co-developed in close collaboration with the Faculty of Educational Sciences at the University of Helsinki.
What is the University of Helsinki?
- The oldest and largest university in Finland, founded in 1640
- Consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide
- Its Faculty of Educational Sciences is the leading institution in Finland for teacher education, and a frontrunner in early childhood education research and practice
This strong academic foundation and ongoing partnership are what truly set the HEI Schools model apart from others around the world.
HEI HQ Team
Based in Helsinki, Finland, the HEI HQ Team is dedicated to our mission of delivering high-quality education to as many children as possible. At our headquarters, we embrace the HEI Way, which represents our foundational pedagogical and operational values. These principles are already evident in every HEI Schools center around the world.
As a global organization, we believe in the power of collaboration and diversity. Our team at HEI HQ comes from various backgrounds and cultures, bringing unique perspectives and ideas to the table. This allows us to continuously evolve and improve as we strive towards our shared goal of providing quality education for all. If you have a chance, we invite you to visit us at our head office in the lively city of Helsinki!