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08/10/2024
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The programme helps to better prepare teachers to promote understanding and respect for cultural diversity among children. Foto: Pexels
The Estonian Refugee Council (ERC) is advising specialists in kindergartens in Ida-Viru County and Tallinn to help create more integrated and inclusive learning environments. The programme, which runs until the end of January 2025, is supported by the British Council in Estonia. This is the fourth year the ERC has provided such consultation for kindergartens.
According to Mirjam Rennit, the Awareness Programme Specialist at the Estonian Refugee Council, the organisation has extensive experience in advising and training early childhood education specialists. "Over the years, we have supported hundreds of kindergarten teachers, providing them with the knowledge and skills to more effectively integrate children and families from diverse linguistic, migratory, and cultural backgrounds," said Rennit, adding:
"Through experience-based consultation, kindergarten teachers improve their skills and build confidence in working in multicultural environments. As a result, they are better prepared to foster an understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity among children, promoting a sense of unity not only in kindergartens but also in the wider local community."
The programme also focuses on involving Russian-speaking families from different countries in Estonian-language educational institutions. Together with specialists, the consultation process seeks solutions that promote communication between communities and help reduce the social exclusion of Russian-speaking communities.
Ursula Roosmaa, Head of the British Council in Estonia, added: "We are delighted that the Estonian Refugee Council's project focuses on kindergartens and their specialists, as community integration starts at an early age. Supporting children in these early stages makes the transition to Estonian-language education smoother."
The programme, which runs until 31 January 2025, involves five kindergartens and will provide consultations to 30 kindergarten teachers in Ida-Viru County and Tallinn. Additionally, two community events will be organised in Ida-Viru County, bringing together representatives from different communities and parents.
This project is carried out in cooperation with the British Council in Estonia to support social cohesion as part of the People to People Cultural Engagement Programme. Find more info about British Council’s work in Estonia at www.britishcouncil.ee
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