News

A Historic Beginning

The 2025–2026 academic year was a historic one for Turku International School. As the school’s first year under the administration of the City of Turku, it marked both a major transition for the school community and an important milestone in the development of international education in Turku.

At the beginning of the academic year on 1 August 2025, the entire school staff transferred from the employment of the University of Turku to that of the City of Turku. At the same time, a new principal took up the position, and several new teachers joined the staff. As the school year commenced, some fixed-term teaching positions remained vacant, particularly in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry, and Student Guidance Counselling. Consequently, the first weeks of the term were devoted largely to recruitment processes, the adoption of organisational practices within the new administration, the implementation of digital systems, and the establishment of a cohesive new professional community.

Preparing a New School

Throughout the autumn semester, the school continued to operate in shared premises with the Turku Teacher Training School (Normaalikoulu) in Varissuo. Simultaneously, extensive preparations were underway for the relocation to the school’s new facilities in Kupittaa. The autumn was characterised by transition and development, with a substantial proportion of the school leadership’s efforts directed towards monitoring the construction project, planning and furnishing the new facilities, and ensuring that the school was fully equipped for operation. Particular challenges arose from the procurement and outfitting process, as the City of Turku had limited previous experience of establishing an entirely new school. Consequently, several procurement procedures proved both demanding and time-consuming.

The commitment of the school community to its shared goals became especially evident during the Christmas holiday period. Staff members actively participated in the relocation and commissioning of the new school building, often contributing significant amounts of their own personal time. Owing to this collective effort, the new premises were successfully prepared for the start of teaching at the beginning of the spring semester in January 2026.

A New Home in Kupittaa

The official opening of the new school was celebrated on a beautiful winter morning. During the ceremony, students performed the school song and marked the beginning of a new era together with staff members, parents, guardians, and collaborative partners. The event became a significant and memorable milestone for the entire school community.

Daily life in the new premises quickly settled into a positive rhythm. Both students and staff provided substantial positive feedback regarding the functionality of the learning environments, the pleasant atmosphere of the facilities, the reduced noise levels, and the improved conditions for learning and teaching. The impact of having dedicated school premises on community spirit, wellbeing, and a productive learning environment was immediately apparent. Across the school community, there was a noticeable increase in both stability and a sense of belonging.

Strengthening Community and Learning

During the spring semester, the school’s focus shifted increasingly towards its core mission of learning and the strengthening of its own organisational culture and community spirit. Active discussions were held with students regarding shared expectations, practices, and behavioural norms. The Student Council played a significant role in shaping these common principles. The objective was to foster a school community in which every student feels included and is able to learn in a safe, supportive, and respectful environment.

Securing Future Educational Pathways

In February, uncertainty surrounding the future of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Turku generated concern, particularly among Grade 9 students and their families. The situation required close cooperation between the City of Turku and the University of Turku. Throughout the spring, several information and consultation sessions were organised to ensure that each student would have access to an appropriate and goal-oriented upper secondary education pathway. Addressing the issue demanded an exceptional level of effort from both school leadership and student guidance services.

One of the most significant achievements of the academic year was the announcement in May that the City of Turku had been granted permission to provide English-medium upper secondary education. The new programme will commence in the school’s facilities on 1 August 2027, significantly strengthening the continuity of international educational pathways in Turku and creating new opportunities for local and internationally mobile families.

Expanding Learning Beyond the Classroom

The school’s new location in Kupittaa also expanded opportunities for learning beyond the classroom. Local services, cultural resources, and sports facilities were actively integrated into teaching and learning activities. One particularly memorable experience was provided through the city’s cross-country skiing equipment programme, which enabled students to experience skiing on newly acquired loan equipment on the tracks prepared in Kupittaa Park. In addition, the entire Veritas Stadium was reserved for the school’s use for a community-wide football event involving all students.

Celebrating Community Success

The academic year culminated in a picnic concert organised during the final week of school. Students and staff collaborated to create a memorable event for families and members of the wider school community. The concert attracted a large audience and further strengthened the sense of belonging within the school. It also showcased the students’ talents, confidence, and commitment to community engagement.

Interest in the school has been exceptionally strong. Since January, the school has received 225 applications, and entrance examinations have been organised on a weekly basis beyond the official application period. The school has also welcomed domestic and international visitors on an almost weekly basis. While visitors have been impressed by the modern facilities, they have been particularly inspired by the students themselves, who have enthusiastically served as ambassadors and guides for the school.

Another important indicator of the school’s successful organisational culture has been the commitment demonstrated by its staff. All teachers employed on fixed-term contracts expressed a desire to continue working at the school, and their contributions were considered so valuable that opportunities for continued employment were made available wherever possible.

Looking Ahead

The 2025–2026 academic year was exceptionally demanding and remarkably diverse in its scope. Organisational change, relocation, the establishment of a new administrative structure, and the opening of a new school required considerable flexibility, dedication, and collaborative effort from all staff members. Although the year was at times challenging, it was also deeply rewarding. The achievements accomplished together have established a strong foundation for the future development and continued success of Turku International School.

Turku, 30 July 2026

Elli Sainio

 Principal

 Turku International School