Development programmes for schools

Since 2022, HAKA, together with its partner universities – Tallinn University and the University of Tartu – has been running development programmes designed for schools that require support in setting learner-centered goals, implementing activities and assessing their impact.

The development programmes are intended to provide schools with long-term, comprehensive, evidence-based, and learner-centered support for development, grounded in collaborative organisational culture.

Programmes last up to three years and enable schools to:

  • Define performance indicators in collaboration with the university team and a mentor, which are regularly monitored throughout the program;
  • Analyse and evaluate activities, programme progress, and the alignment of results with established goals;
  • Receive regular support from a mentor (a leader or educational manager from another institution with experience in educational leadership). The mentor’s profile is selected according to the school’s needs.

Note: Schools cannot apply for development programmes independently; participation is by invitation only.

Requirements for schools

The institution itself plays a central role in shaping the outcomes of the development programme. Schools are expected to:

  • Actively and continuously participate throughout the programme;
  • Collaborate openly with the university and mentor;
  • Demonstrate honest self-reflection to address root causes and plan and implement appropriate activities;
  • Maintain an analytical approach.

Eligibility

Schools are invited to participate in the development programme if:

  • The need for development support is confirmed through the results of the quality assessment
  • Nationally collected data indicate a need for development support.

Specific participation criteria are agreed upon by the Ministry of Education and Research, HAKA, and the partner universities.

During the 2022–2029 period, free participation is offered to up to 50 general education schools.

Schools participating in the Development Programmes are marked with orange (as of March 2025).