Tampere's afternoon activities at schools are considered safe and effective

Tampere’s afternoon activities at schools have received positive feedback from parents in a recent survey. The survey was conducted from 19 January to 1 February 2026, and a total of 581 responses were received from parents. Most respondents reported that their child was in first grade, and about a quarter said their child was in second grade. Five percent of respondents reported that their child was in a special education class in grades 3–9.

Focus on a safe daily routine and children’s well-being

Nearly 85 percent of the guardians who responded to the survey are satisfied with the afternoon activities. In particular, a safe daily routine, the child’s well-being, and smooth cooperation with the home emerged in the survey as the strengths of the after-school program.

Guardians feel that the afternoon activities are safe place for their child after school, and the child is happy to go to the activities and returns home in good spirits. Respondents are satisfied with the staff’s professionalism, and the instructors receive praise for their friendly and warm interaction with the children.

Areas for improvement in afternoon activities

The survey also highlighted a few areas for improvement. Parents and guardians hope for more proactive communication regarding exceptional circumstances, as well as more consistent use of communication channels and methods across different locations. Many respondents also hope for more planned activities, such as guided physical exercise and various workshops for children.

Head of Basic Education Mari Palviainen thanks the guardians for actively responding to the survey.

– Feedback is extremely important for developing our operations. For the next school year, our goals will be to focus on physical activity, outdoor recreation, and the development of common communication practices. We don’t need any screen time at all in the afternoon activities.

Applications for the afternoon activities at schools open on 1 April 2026

Applications for the 2026–2027 school year’s afternoon activities will be accepted from 1 to 22 April 2026. The application form can be found in Wilma under the “Applications and Decisions” tab, titled “Application for Afternoon Activities for the School Year 2026-2027”.

Basic Education organizes after-school activities for students in grades 1 and 2, as well as for students in grades 1–9 who have a decision regarding special education support (studying in a special education class). To secure a spot, the family must have a necessary need arising from a guardian’s employment or studies, or some other special reason. After-school activities are also offered to children participating in bilingual preschool education within Basic Education.

In Tampere, after-school activities are organized by the city and private providers. The city provides financial support to private providers while monitoring the quality of the activities. A spot in the program is granted for one school year at a time.