You have probably already come across articles about children in Japanese schools cleaning their classroom together with their peers and preparing and serving lunch to their schoolmates themselves, or photos of playful, head-to-toe muddy little ones from Scandinavian countries learning through play outdoors, in nature, eating apples from a shared basket at a “forest kindergarten”.
Research has shown that when early education takes place in a high-quality environment where learning and play come together, it has an exceptionally positive effect on children’s overall development, as well as their future opportunities.
Fasten your seatbelt, because we are taking you on a short journey through specific school systems around the world to find out what makes each of them distinctive, and what virtues and values children in such systems have the opportunity to adopt.
Practical skills in multilingual Switzerland
The educational philosophy in Switzerland is characterised by flexibility, multilingualism and a commitment to quality, with an emphasis on practical skills. The Swiss dual education system integrates academic and vocational education, enabling pupils to develop a wide range of skills and knowledge.
This approach encourages pupils to gain practical experience while simultaneously progressing in academic areas. The focus on multilingualism enables pupils to communicate in several languages, which opens the door to global opportunities and intercultural understanding.
Finland: An individualised approach
Finland is known for encouraging development and respecting pupils as individuals. Teachers in Finland strive to reduce any kind of pressure towards competitiveness and competition. On the contrary, among little Finns teachers create an environment that fosters creativity and self-expression. Test results are not the ultimate goal of a pupil’s success.
The Finnish education system began raising the status of teachers in the 1980s, which led to a transformation of the entire educational approach.
Japan: Work together with others and give your all
Japanese preschools and schools are often characterised by a high degree of discipline and respect for authority. Pupils are responsible for cleaning their classrooms and school premises, which promotes a pronounced sense of cooperation and a regard for shared property.
These activities foster values such as caring for others, giving your best, not giving up, respecting your elders, understanding your role in the group and teamwork. This approach not only helps to maintain cleanliness, but also develops a sense of community and responsibility among pupils.
Denmark: Problem-solving in a creative and friendly atmosphere
The educational approach in Denmark avoids ranking in classes and formal tests. Instead, children work in groups and learn to make established ways of working more creative.
Teachers are addressed by their first name, which creates a friendly and open atmosphere. The emphasis is on problem-solving rather than memorising facts. This system encourages pupils to develop critical thinking, creativity and self-confidence, while also learning to value cooperation and differences of opinion.
South Korea: Technological know-how, respect for elders and a work ethic
Unlike the aforementioned Denmark, the South Korean education system is known for its high academic standards and intensive approach to learning. Pupils are encouraged to achieve high academic results through rigorous study programmes and regular tests. In addition to academic success, the South Korean education system promotes values such as a work ethic, discipline and respect for elders.
Educational institutions in South Korea also emphasise the importance of technological progress and innovation, preparing pupils for success in a highly competitive global environment.
Germany: Practical work experience
The German education system is known for its structure and rigour, with a particular focus on practical skills and vocational education. The dual education system, similar to the Swiss one, combines theoretical teaching in schools with practical work experience in companies.
This approach enables pupils to acquire not only theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills that are immediately applicable on the labour market. Through this kind of system, German pupils develop responsibility, work habits and abilities essential for success in their future careers.
Sweden: A society in which everyone contributes their knowledge
The Swedish education system is based on respect for human rights and the fundamental democratic values on which Swedish society is founded. These values include democracy, solidarity and equality. The educational approach in Sweden promotes equality, inclusion and respect for every individual. All pupils take part in a good and inclusive learning environment, where they are encouraged to develop critical thinking, cooperation and creativity.
Children and young people who need special support receive it from the earliest age, so that they can develop their full potential. Teachers, instructors and other staff in the education system are highly qualified and skilled, ensuring quality education for all. Education is something in which everyone should succeed and in which every individual should be able to take part, both now and in the future.
Singapore: High standards and continuous learning
The education system in Singapore is known for its efficiency and high standards. The Singaporean approach to education places emphasis on achieving academic excellence through strict standards and intensive work.
However, in addition to academic skills, the Singaporean education system also promotes values such as discipline, responsibility and continuous learning. Pupils are encouraged to develop critical thinking and innovativeness, preparing them for the challenges of a globalised world.
Australia: diverse extracurricular activities and multiculturalism
The Australian education system stands out for its flexibility and inclusivity. Schools in Australia promote a holistic approach to education, where a balance between academic skills, sport, art and social activities is valued.
Pupils are encouraged to develop their interests and talents through a wide range of extracurricular activities. In addition, Australian schools emphasise the importance of multiculturalism and understanding different cultures, which contributes to creating an open and tolerant society.
Brazil: Inclusion and equality
The Brazilian education system strives to promote social inclusion and equality. Programmes such as full-time schools (escolas de tempo integral) provide pupils with an extended stay at school, where they have access to additional educational and cultural activities.
These schools promote values such as solidarity, civic responsibility and environmental awareness. Brazilian schools often emphasise the importance of working together and community spirit, and pupils are encouraged to take an active part in social projects and volunteering activities.
A step towards a better future: Innovations in Serbia’s education system
Serbia is at an important turning point in its education system, aligning itself with global trends in education reform. The introduction of the programme “Virtues and Values as a Life Compass” shows a commitment to improving not only the academic, but also the emotional and social development of pupils. In this way, Serbia is joining countries like Finland and Denmark, which recognise the importance of a balanced approach to education, where the emphasis is placed on social awareness, empathy, practical skills and responsibility.
The fact that similar initiatives are also being launched in neighbouring countries in the region is further evidence that the time is right to implement values and virtues. Although there is still a great deal of work ahead of us, here is one positive example that shows us that a shift is happening. We hope that changes will happen in practice, and not only in theory, so that we can move closer to the role models of the West and the East.
It would be ideal if we were to take the best from each of these systems and apply it in our educational institutions. That way we would ensure that every generation grows up in an environment that supports, inspires and prepares children for a successful life.
By combining these virtues and values, we can create an education system that not only educates, but also shapes responsible, empathetic and versatile members of society and citizens ready for all the challenges of the future, who will take part in building a better world.
