Studying alongside work challenged and gave new ideas
The city of Äänekoski supports the voluntary study of its employees
Äänekoski city early childhood education employees Johanna Pohjolainen, Sonja Pääkkönen, Riikka Norrbacka ja Mervi Hyppönen completed basic studies in education. The job, which lasted about a year, was heavy, but rewarding in addition to the day job.
The basic study package of the Open University of Jyväskylä was implemented mainly as a multi-format study, which enables flexible study remotely, alongside work and from your own locality. I received good support from my own group, even though the studies were completed independently.
Pohjolainen, Pääkkönen, Norrbacka and Hyppönen are satisfied that the city of Äänekoski as an employer offered such an opportunity. The studies gave me reinforcement and new ideas for my own work. Supervisors encouraged studying and understood occasional fatigue. Especially when there were three courses running at the same time, studying was a burden and took its toll on free time and vacations.
"Good job Riikka!"
Kindergarten work is hectic and stressful. Children and good colleagues help to cope at work, and the fact that you can go outside during the working day. You have to have a sense of humor and you can support your co-worker with it. Children are often wonderful at turning things into a positive.
- Even one child told me one day that good job Riikka! Riikka Norrbacka laughs.
The Open University of Jyväskylä and the city of Äänekoski have been cooperating closely for a few years now. The city of Äänekoski paid for the basic studies of early childhood education workers and provided facilities for study. Completed open university studies enable you to apply for bachelor's and master's studies that qualify you as an early childhood education teacher.
The employment prospects for early childhood education teachers in the city of Äänekoski are very good. This spring's large early childhood education recruitments were successful and a large number of applicants were received.
For more information:
HR Director Arja-Leena Kriivarinmäki, 0400 471 273, arja-leena.kriivarinmaki@aanekoski.fi
News published 25.4.2023