Education Minister Kristina Kallas says that next year it may be just as difficult to get into secondary school as it was this year.
The graduating classes from basic schools are large and there are few places in secondary schools. This creates a lot of stress.
The new SAIS3 system is supposed to help, but Tallinn Deputy Mayor Andrei Kante is not sure if it will work.
This year, many young people had difficulty finding a school. The new system was not ready and many didn't know where they should go in September.
Kallas says that in the future it may be even more difficult, as more students will want to get into popular schools.
The problem is also that one person can submit multiple applications. This makes the system more complex.
The SAIS3 system should be almost ready. Schools will be able to test it in December.
Kante says that Tallinn is waiting until the ministry confirms that the system works. There is no certainty yet.
Kallas believes that in 2027, admission will be just as difficult as now. There is strong competition for gymnasium spots.
The education reform was done quickly, but Kallas says that preparations took a long time. The first year is always difficult.
Currently, there are about 251 young people who are not studying anywhere. It is difficult to reach them.
In Tallinn, there are 78 such youths. Contact has not been made with 30 of them.
Kante says that many children need help. For example, some have mental health difficulties.
Kallas says that some children do not want to continue studying. They may have language or health problems.
Kante believes that preparatory education will not solve all problems. Basic schools need more support.
Kallas says that schools must take responsibility for teacher quality themselves. The state cannot always control this.
Teachers often don't attend training sessions. This is a problem.
Kante thinks basic schools should provide more support. For example, children should be able to get extra lessons.
Kallas doesn't believe repeating a grade helps. The same school and same teachers may not change anything.