Helsinki is recruiting early childhood educators from Spain in an effort to stem the shortage of teachers at its Swedish-language public daycare centres.
A little over a week ago, a group of 12 Spanish early childhood educators gathered for what will be an intensive six months of language training.
Their schooling is taking place in Spain, where the teachers are supposed to learn Swedish and be introduced to Finnish working life.
"The training is conducted on-site in Spain by our recruiting partner, BBi Communications," said Kati Mhone, who works in human resources for the City of Helsinki.
The city's daycare staff shortage is acute.
"This isn't how we are going to solve our staffing shortage, but it's a trial that can be expanded," she explained.
After passing a final exam, the Spanish educators will gain permanent contracts in the city's Swedish-language daycare centres.
The city's recruitment drive in Spain drew more than 1,500 applicants of which 10 percent had qualified as teachers.
Mhone said that while 12 people were enrolled in the programme, she said the city can expect to get five workers in Finland by next August.
"We know that some individuals will drop out along the way… people get married, have children, and it's a big decision to move to another country and learn a new language," she said.
"Not just two hours language classes a week"
Mhone added that the trainers want to provide a realistic picture of life in Finland.
"It may also be the case that someone doesn't like the work once it actually starts, even though we have done our best to provide a thorough and realistic picture of what life is like in Finland," she added.
For someone who is motivated, learning Swedish in this timeframe is realistic, according to Mhone.
"It's hard work of course, not just attending language classes for two hours a week. But if you have the stamina, you can do it."
When asked why Helsinki has decided to focus on Spain, Mhone said the country has an oversupply of early childhood educators.
"We adhere to the ethical principles of international recruitment, so we do not recruit from countries where there is a shortage of workforce in the sector domestically."
About 5.2 percent of Finland's population are part of the Swedish-speaking minority, but the population has steadily declined since the 18th century, when nearly 20 percent spoke the language. However, Swedish remains one of the country's official languages.
Users with an Yle ID can leave comments on our news stories. You can create your Yle ID via this link. Our guidelines on commenting and moderation are explained here.