In Finland, early childhood education and care (ECEC) is provided either in ECEC centres or through family daycare. More infromation in chapter 3 Early childhood education and care Pre-primary education for six-year-olds takes place either in schools alongside comprehensive education or in ECEC centres. Each ECEC centre is led by a head of centre, who may have a deputy head for support. 

Schools offering comprehensive education (primary and lower secondary) and upper secondary education are managed by principals (school heads), who can be assisted by vice principals. Vocational institutions may also have department heads responsible for specific areas.

Requirements for appointment

Early Childhood Education and Care

To become a head of an ECEC centre, the requirements are:

• a qualification as an ECEC teacher
• leadership skills

If the position is only administrative with no direct work with children or staff support, the requirements are:

• a master’s degree in a relevant field
• leadership skills

Comprehensive and Upper Secondary Schools

Principals in these schools must have:

• a master’s degree and a teaching qualification for the relevant level
• appropriate work experience
• knowledge of educational administration (usually proven by a certificate or equivalent)

Schools must always have an appointed substitute for the principal. They may also have vice principals or department heads.

Teaching Qualifications Decree (986/1998) (Asetus opetustoimen henkilöstön elpoisuusvaatimuksista (986/1998)) 

Conditions of service

Principals and heads of ECEC centres are hired through an open recruitment process. Vacant positions are publicly advertised, and education providers set the criteria for selection.

Salaries
Salaries are negotiated through collective agreements every few years. Pay varies depending on the type and size of the institution and may increase with additional qualifications, such as a licentiate or doctoral degree. 

More information on salaries Teachers' and school heads' salaries and allowances in Europe

Working Hours

Working hours for head of ECEC centres and school principals are

• heads of ECEC centres: 38 hours and 15 minutes per week
• principals: 36 hours and 15 minutes per week

Working hours are flexible and depend on the school’s operational needs. This means a principal’s workload and schedule can vary significantly during the school year. Principals are not required to spend all their working hours at the school. 

The regulations concerning dismissal, retirement and in-service training for principals are similar to those for teaching personnel.