The “Swedish Model” – What Happens in Preschool Education

Preschools in Sweden offer educational activities for children aged 1-6 years. The Swedish curriculum particularly focuses on children’s independence, as the main concern of educators is for children to develop self-confidence and autonomy. The operation of Swedish preschools is based on free play, as educators ensure to create the appropriate environment and stimuli so that during free play, children can take advantage of it according to their needs. Additionally, a large part of free play takes place daily outdoors, close to nature, regardless of weather conditions. Emphasis is also placed on children’s functioning in small groups, gender equality, democratic processes, and the natural environment.

The Structure of Preschool

Initially, we would say that it varies depending on the priorities set by the school, the municipality, its funding, and, of course, the way it is organized by the principal and educators. A typical school usually has four classes: 1 – 2.5 years, 2.5 – 3.5 years, 3.5 – 4.5 years, and 4.5 – 5.5 years. However, in many cases, educators prefer to create mixed-age classes.

The adult-to-child ratio is 1 to 6, so in a class of about 20 children, there is one preschool teacher (förskollärare) and two childcare workers (barnskötare) as assistants. To maintain this ratio, in case of absence of a permanent staff member, the management calls substitutes (vikarie).

Preschool teachers are responsible for the class and the smooth flow of daily activities, as well as the pedagogical aspect. Their responsibilities mainly concern the pedagogical aspect. Meanwhile, assistants take on the upbringing of children, as they are responsible for the children’s physical needs (food, toilet, clothing) and their creative engagement, while they often take on cleaning duties of the school. Usually, assistants will also engage in organized pedagogical activities, but to a much lesser extent, about once a month. However, the division of roles varies depending on the school and its organization. […]

Resource: alfavita

[Mini College, bilingual nursery & kindergarten, Kifissia]