Ålands Naturskola – Åland

Why do sea scuds cuddle? What makes the Baltic macoma turn black with anger? By sparking curiosity, Ålands Naturskola (Åland Nature School) makes natural science engaging, accessible, and meaningful for children and young people.

Through outdoor, experience-based learning, pupils learn about climate, biodiversity, and the right of public access in their own local environment. Direct contact with nature fosters understanding, engagement, and a sense of responsibility for a sustainable future.

Ålands Naturskola is one of four Swedish-language nature schools in Finland, operated by The Finnish Society for Nature and Environment (Finlands Natur & Miljö). The programme plays an important role in providing accessible and inclusive environmental education. Its mobile service reaches all primary schools and day-care centres in Åland. Teaching is aligned with the national curriculum and is complemented by preparatory and follow-up activities that reinforce learning in the classroom.

The programme is highly valued by both pupils and teachers, and makes a tangible contribution to the development of environmental education. In co-operation with The Baltic Sea Foundation, Ålands Naturskola can also offer classes the opportunity to become classes of The Baltic Sea Foundation at no cost, enabling them to learn more about the vital life of the sea. In many ways, Ålands Naturskola opens the door to a natural world that children learn to see with new eyes. Knowledge of nature beyond the realm of humans forms the foundation for the ability to care for and protect it.