We’re Taking Professional Learning…GLOBAL!
Connected Learning is partnering with THE leader in global student travel, Education First, to create something truly special and amazing. Professional Learning for 6 nights and 7 days the most innovative countries in the world, Finland and Estonia!
Connect with professionals from all across our region on a 6 night 7-day excursion to Helsinki, Finland, and Tallinn, Estonia. Two countries, dozens of educators, one amazing professional learning experience.
Your Itinerary
Day 1: Overnight flight
Board your overnight flight to Helsinki!
Day 2: Helsinki
Walking tour of Helsinki
Meet in Senate Square, the heart of Helsinki, for your walking tour. With your tour director, you will pass the Government House and the grand columns of Helsinki University; then stroll along Alexanterinkatu to the Russian Orthodox Uspenski Cathedral. Your stroll concludes at the Esplanade, an oasis of greenery surrounded by cafés, bakeries and boutiques.
Welcome dinner
Day 3: Helsinki
Guided sightseeing of Helsinki
Pass the pink granite Parliament, the green-domed Lutheran Cathedral, which dominates Helsinki's skyline, and the 1952 Olympic Stadium. You'll also see a monument to composer Jean Sibelius and the harborside fish and fruit market. Continue on for a visit to the Temppeliaukio Church; an excellent example of modern Finnish architecture, the church is carved into the side of a rocky bluff!
Exploring the Finnish Education System and Curriculum
Learn how Finland has earned the world's top-ranked education system, according to a 2012 report by the Programme for International Student Assessment. From its emphasis on early education to a unique approach on teacher training, see what can be gleaned from this top-ranked system. (Please note this activity is pending the board's schedule)
Day 4: Helsinki
University of Helsinki Teacher Training Visit
Spend some time learning more about higher education in Finland during a visit to the University of Helsinki.
Visit a local school
Today you will have a chance to visit a local school and learn more about their daily lives and education system.
Evening with Finnish locals
This evening you will dine with locals and discuss the similarities and differences between the American and Finnish educational systems. (Please note this activity is pending confirmation)
Day 5: Helsinki | Tallinn
Board a ferry to Tallinn
Cross into Estonia to visit its capital city. A fascinating mix of church spires, baroque palaces, and modern skyscrapers.
Guided sightseeing of Tallinn
Tallinn's medieval fort dates back to the 14th century and is so well preserved that almost two kilometers of the wall surrounding it remains today. See the Town Hall's beautifully Gothic design and feel part of the Czarist Empire as you stand before the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
Evening with Estonians
This evening you will dine with locals and discuss the similarities and differences between the American and Estonian educational systems. (Please note this activity is pending confirmation)
Day 6: Tallinn | Helsinki
Exploring the Estonian Education System and Curriculum
This morning you will meet with educational professionals to learn more about education in Estonia. (Please note this activity is pending confirmation)
Return to Helsinki
Take a ferry back to Helsinki for some free time to explore the city on your own.
Debriefing session
Take some time to reflect on the week's activities with your fellow travelers.
Farewell dinner in Helsinki
Day 7: Return flight
Transfer to the airport for your return flight
Your tour director assists with your transfer to the airport, where you'll check-in for your return flight home.
The itinerary is subject to change
For complete financial and registration details, please refer to the Booking Conditions at www.eftours.com/bc.
Estimated Cost
$95 deposit (Refundable)
$4,520 Airfare, accommodations, and some meals
Additional costs: Tipping: TD $36 Bus: $18 Guides: $4 = $58/person. Lunches are not included. Dinner days 3-5 are not included.
Learning: PRICELESS!
Your Resources
You have questions? Email
NOTE: If your school is paying for this experience please register and select the manual payment plan. That way they won’t be charged until the school gets invoiced and pays. EF will waive the $50 fee for this method since it will make the most sense for our group.
Your Learning Dates:
March 13 - March 19th 2020
