Erasmus+

​​Ballinasloe College of Further Education Students Gain Life‑Changing Experience in Finland Erasmus+ Mobility

Eleven students and four staff from Ballinasloe College of Further Education recently returned from a highly successful Erasmus+ group mobility trip to Finland, where Stage 1 & Stage 2 Early Childcare Education and Level 5 Healthcare learners took part in an immersive five‑day educational experience hosted by Eduko Vocational College in South East Finland.

The fully funded trip, organised through the Erasmus+ programme, offered students a unique opportunity to experience first‑hand how vocational education and care services operate in one of Europe’s most highly regarded education and healthcare systems. The group travelled from Ireland to Helsinki before making the one‑and‑a‑half‑hour journey to their destination in south‑eastern Finland.

Once there, students were warmly welcomed by staff and learners at Eduko Vocational College and participated in a varied programme of professional observation, cultural exchange and hands‑on learning.

Exploring Finland’s Forest Preschool Model

For students studying Stage 1 & Stage 2 Early Childhood Care and Education, one of the most memorable aspects of the trip was the opportunity to observe a Finnish forest preschool, a key part of Finland’s early‑years education model. In this setting, children spend the majority of their day outdoors, regardless of weather conditions, embracing nature as their primary learning environment.

Students observed babies and toddlers, some as young as six months old, napping peacefully outdoors in insulated prams, even in temperatures that can fall as low as minus 20 degrees Celsius. This practice, common across Finland, is believed to support children’s immune systems, improve sleep quality and foster resilience from an early age.

Learning in the forest preschool centred around child‑led play, exploration and independence. Children climbed trees, built shelters, explored natural materials and developed social skills through outdoor teamwork. BCFE students were struck by the calm, confident manner in which children engaged with their surroundings and by the strong emphasis placed on trust, freedom and respect for the natural world.

“This experience really challenged our thinking about early childhood education,” one student remarked. 

Meaningful Connections in Healthcare Settings

Meanwhile, Ballinasloe College of Further Education's healthcare students visited a dementia care unit, where they spent the day engaging with residents and staff. The visit offered invaluable insight into Finland’s person‑centred approach to elderly care, particularly in supporting those living with dementia.

Learners had the opportunity to assist residents with daily activities, including dressing and feeding, while also focusing on emotional connection and dignity in care. Throughout the day there was music, laughter and even dancing, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere that highlighted the importance of social interaction in healthcare settings.

Looking to the Future

The success of the Finland mobility has reinforced Ballinasloe College of Further Education's commitment to international learning opportunities. In the coming weeks, the college is preparing to welcome its first Erasmus+ healthcare student from Finland, who will spend time both on campus and in a local healthcare placement, further strengthening international partnerships.

Following the positive impact of the Finland experience, Ballinasloe College of Further Education hopes to organise additional Erasmus+ trips in the future, giving more students the chance to broaden their horizons, develop professionally and gain confidence through international mobility.

This Erasmus+ trip proved not only to be an educational success but also a transformative personal journey for all involved — one that will influence students’ careers, perspectives and ambitions for years to come.