STUDY GUIDE

2022–2023
CONTACT
VAMIA HANSA CAMPUS
Ruutikellarintie 2, 65100 Vaasa
Switchboard (06) 325 7411
VAMIA SAMPO CAMPUS
Sepänkyläntie 16, 65100 Vaasa
Switchboard (06) 325 7411

PRINCIPAL
Åsa Stenbacka, 040 750 7030
VICE PRINCIPAL, WORKING LIFE AND BUSINESS SERVICES
Maria Murtomäki, 040 735 7041
VICE PRINCIPAL, STUDENT SERVICES
Johan Lindman, 040 549 7440

STUDENT OFFICE
(06) 325 7411

HEAD OF DIVISION, TOURISM SERVICES

Sami Syväoja, 040 147 7597
HEAD OF DIVISION, TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
Janne Saijonkivi, 040 663 9451
HEAD OF DIVISION, WELLBEING SERVICES
Toni Borén, 040 829 4225
HEAD OF DIVISION, COMMON UNITS
Elina Romar, 040 567 2718
HEAD OF DIVISION, BUSINESS SERVICES
Tina Ura, 040 828 0495
HEAD OF DIVISION, ENERGY SERVICES
Seppo Uusitalo, 040 546 7945

Staff e-mail: firstname.lastname@vamia.fi

Further contact information: www.vamia.fi
@VAMIAVAASA

2
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3
A WORD FROM OUR PRINCIPAL
Vocational education and training is becoming more
competence-based and customer-oriented. This change
in education is needed as there is a change in the skills
and knowledge that will be needed in working life.
Through this reform we can offer a wider variety of
supplementary courses alongside the more traditional
degrees study paths. These units give students the up-to-
date competence that enables them to keep up with the
developing working life around them.
The government programme has taken up the issues
of continuous learning, the availability of training and
skilful workforce and, by the end of next year, a roadmap
for skills and learning for 2030 will be drawn up. This
fosters a sense of hope, as education is back in focus.
For the students of Vamia, the reform is a good thing, as
the students have more options and they can build their
own study paths with more flexibility. The degrees are
being tailored to meet the needs of the working life and
Vamia prepares students to enter their careers equipped
with up-to-date competence.
For example, we have built our learning environments
in cooperation with working life representatives in order
to create facilities that resemble the real-life conditions
as closely as possible. In addition, our students learn
what Lean is all about during their studies. And, as
Vaasa is the energy capital city of Finland, we make
sure that our students know a lot about energy, energy
efficiency, environment-friendly and sustainable use of
energy and can apply their knowledge in practice.
4
We are continuously developing and fortifying our
cooperation with the local businesses. There will be a
shortage of competent workforce in the years to come.
The students benefit from this cooperation, as the
companies offer them positions for on-the-job training,
summer jobs and occasional on-demand work. Local
companies are already quite actively recruiting our
students through visits at Vamia.
Vamia provides a great base for students to embark on
further studies. Through our cooperation with Vaasa
University for Applied Sciences (VAMK), we have
created a chance for our students to start further studies
at VAMK while they are still studying at Vamia.
Our society is more international than before. In the
workplace of the future one has to have language skills
and intercultural skills. At Vamia you can study in three
languages and in a multicultural environment. Our
students and recent graduates have also the possibility to
do an internship abroad. You can apply for an exchange
period up to six months after graduation.
Vamia welcomes all applicants. Welcome to Vamia to
build a solid base for your future career!
Åsa Stenbacka
Principal
 Vamia provides a
great base for students
to embark on further
studies
STUDYING AT VAMIA
Vamia operates around the year. The Education committee sets the school year
dates annually. It is possible to study while working as there is a selection of
evening and weekend classes.
Studies are arranged so that students can follow their personal study paths in a
flexible manner) and without delays.
Active participation is expected of the students. The students have to acquaint
themselves with and adhere to Vamia’s practices, take responsibility over their
studies and everyday things such as getting to school, living arrangements, eating
and study material as well as recognizing possible special needs and acquiring
suitable support for such needs. Students have a way of getting their voices heard
by joining the student council (oppilaskunta) or by taking part in the activities of a
student association.
The principle of equality is an integral part of everyday life at Vamia. The criteria
for student selection are very transparent and clear. The teaching arrangements
cater for the students’ individual needs. The crucial need for equality is highlighted
particularly when assessing the students’ competence. There is zero tolerance
for any discrimination or sexual harassment. We have a specific plan as well as
guidelines for equality for students at Vamia.

STUDYING AT VAMIA 7
ASSESSMENT
Vocational qualification units are assessed per unit on
a scale of 1 to 5 (vocational upper secondary quali-
fications) or as passed/failed (further and specialist
vocational qualifications). Students demonstrate their
acquired skills in vocational competence demonstrations
that are arranged for each vocational unit. The students’
competence in vocational qualification units is assessed
together by a teacher and a working life representative.
Common units and preparatory studies are assessed by
teachers on a scale of 1 to 5. If a student has not success-
fully completed the studies included in their qualifica-
tion or if they wish to raise a grade, they have a chance
to redo the part of studies in question. • The units and their implementation are planned in
cooperation with working life representatives so that
COMPETENCE-BASED STUDIES the studies match working life skill requirements.
All tuition at Vamia is competence-based. The training • Teaching arrangements are planned so that units can
aims at producing competence that answers the needs be completed separately as independent entities. A
of both the students and working life. Prior skills and unit is divided into smaller modules as best befits
knowledge of the students are recognized and therefore each unit.
students can focus on acquiring the skills they do not
yet have.. PERSONAL COMPETENCE
AND WHAT DOES ’COMPETENCE-BASED’ MEAN? DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PCDP)
• The scope of a qualification or units is measured in Together with their coordinating teacher and, occasion-
competence points (cp). The number of competence ally, a guidance counsellor, the students draft a personal
points for each unit is defined by how extensive the competence development plan (PCDP). All information
competence is, how challenging they are and how about identifying and recognising prior learning and
substantial the studies are – all in relation to the competence is recorded in the plan. Moreover, the plan
entire qualification. should state how competence will be acquired, what
• Competence is not time bound. When a student has support measures the student needs and how compe-
completed the targeted learning outcomes of a given tence is demonstrated. Furthermore, a PCDP includes
unit, they can showcase their skills in a competence an individual career plan. The PCDP is uploaded onto
demonstration and move on to the next study unit StudentaPlus and is updated frequently. If the studies are
according to their study plan. carried out as an apprenticeship, a representative from
• The student’s prior studies and competence must be the workplace must also take part in drafting the plan.
recognised.

8 STUDYING AT VAMIA
Representatives from other cooperation partners, such as
the TE office (public employment and business services),
can also partake in drafting a PCDP where needed.
LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS
Vamia’s learning environments are up-to-date and
ensure great possibilities for improving vocational skills.
The facilities are developed together with working
life partners. Our learning environments include the
institution’s facilities, online environments, workplaces
and other external facilities when needed. The external
facilities include the likes of the customers’ facilities
worksites and different sports venues.
Competence demonstrations can be arranged within
Vamia’s learning environments, if the environment in
question is inspected and approved by a working life
cooperation partner.
Everyone at Vamia contributes to a comfortable and
inspiring environment for studying.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
The scope of qualification is 180 competence points of
which 145 competence points are vocational qualifica-
tion units and 35 competence points are common units.
COMMON UNITS FOR VOCATIONAL
UPPER SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS ARE
1 COMMUNICATION AND INTERACTION COMPETENCE
2 SKILLS IN MATHEMATICS AND NATURAL SCIENCES
3 CITIZENSHIP AND WORKING LIFE COMPETENCE
The scope of further vocational qualifications is 120 or
150 competence points and the scope of specialist voca-
tional qualifications is 160 or 180 competence points.
STUDYING AT VAMIA
Students who have completed a qualification are eligible
for further studies. The qualifications’ general eligibility
for further studies in universities and universities of
applied sciences is decreed by section 37 of the Universi-
ties Act (558/2009) and section 25 of the Universities of
Applied Sciences Act (932/2014).
VAMIABOOST
In VamiaBoost you can do your homework or undone
tasks. You get help and support so that your studies can
proceed. You can get more information about Boost
from your teacher-in-charge, student counselor or spe-
cial education teacher.
LEARNING AT THE WORKPLACE
Practical training at the workplace is arranged either
according to a training agreement or as apprenticeship
training. The training agreement replaces previous
on-the-job training arrangements: The student is not
in a contract of employment and does not receive any
pay or other compensation. Learning at the workplace
is planned one unit at a time. The students are mainly
responsible for applying for a suitable job for themselves
for each unit. Teachers will help in finding the right job.
The apprenticeship is based on a fixed-term contract of
employment (the trainee’s status: employed). The em-
ployer pays a salary to the student and can get financial
compensation for organising the training. Apprentice-
ship training can cover the entire degree or one or more
individual units. Boost timetables can be found here
vamia.fi/en/vamiaboost
9
INDIVIDUAL
LEARNING POSSIBILITIES
AT VAMIA
For students in basic vocational qualification training, each student’s study
path is designed according to their individual background and aims.
In planning, we consider e.g. the student’s future employment, their plans
and goals for further education as well as their hobbies.

INDIVIDUAL LEARNING POSSIBILITIES AT VAMIA 11

STUDYING FOR
DUAL QUALIFICATION
It is possible to acquire a vocational upper secondary quali-
fication and do a matriculation examination in three years.
A dual qualification provides a student with wider general
knowledge for further studies. Completing a dual qualifica-
tion is also a benefit in working life.
VAMK PATHWAY
During their studies, students can apply to join a further
education pathway, arranged in collaboration with Vaasa
University of Applied Sciences (VAMK). The students take
up a total of 30 cp of higher level studies within their field of
study (not applicable to all fields) while they are studying for
a vocational upper secondary qualification. If the higher level
studies are completed successfully, the students can continue
their studies at VAMK without taking an entrance test.
INTERNATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Students can apply for international exchange periods. Our
international activities aim at strengthening the students’
possibilities of finding employment and succeeding in the
internationalising employment market in Finland and
abroad. Student exchange has many benefits; it improves
a diverse vocational skillset, increases tolerance, improves
language skills, supports lifelong learning and provides a
possibility for employment. The competence acquired dur-
ing an exchange period is included in the student’s PCDP.
SPORTS-ORIENTATED STUDIES,
VAASA REGION SPORTS ACADEMY
The sports-orientated studies programme is a possibility for
those students who aim at being professional athletes to prac-
tice their sport while studying for a vocational qualification.
12
JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT FINLAND
A JA-company (NY-yritys/UF-företaget) is a business that
one or more students set up and run for one school year. The
business operates on real money just as an actual business
would. The company is started up with a brainstorming ses-
sion where students come up with their business idea. This
idea is then developed further and the company starts pro-
ducing products or services and students get experience in
running a company as well as in sales and customer service.
ARTS-ORIENTATED STUDIES -
TAIKON-AKATEMIA
Vamia’s students can have their arts studies recognised as
part of their vocational qualification. Those who study arts
professionally can take up basic art studies while doing their
vocational qualification through the arts-orientated study
programme.
COMPETITIONS AND
EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
There are various national-level competitions in Finland for
students of vocational training and the students of Vamia
can also attend these competitions.
SKILLS FINLAND
Skills Finland (Taitaja) is the biggest vocational education
and training happening, where students compete for the
Finnish Championship in over 40 vocational skills compe-
titions. More than a thousand students attend the dozens
of qualifying competitions nationwide. Over 400 students
compete in the finals and tens of thousands of people join
in the audience. Vamia provides further information on the
competition during the school year.
SAKUSTARS
SAKUstars is a national culture event and competition for
all vocational education students. There are events for works
that are sent in advance as well as for live performances.
INDIVIDUAL LEARNING POSSIBILITIES AT VAMIA
VARIOUS TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
TRAINING FOR VOCATIONAL
QUALIFICATIONS
The aim of vocational qualification training is to study
an entire vocational qualification or one or more units
of it. Vocational qualification training prepares for a vo-
cational upper secondary, further or specialist vocational
qualification or a part of any of the above. The training is
funded by the Ministry of Education and Culture. Stu-
dents of further and specialist vocational qualifications,
excluding apprenticeship trainees and labour policy stu-
dents, pay a student fee. Training for vocational qualifi-
cations can also be performed as an apprenticeship.
APPRENTICESHIP TRAINING
Apprenticeship training can cover the entire degree or
one or more individual units. Within this study path,
most of the learning is practical and happens at the work-
place. Students are to find their own workplace. The stu-
dent has to work at least 25 hours per week, so part-time
employment is also an option. During the apprenticeship
students are paid a salary according to the collective la-
bour agreement. All vocational qualifications at Vamia
can be achieved through apprenticeship training.
LABOUR POLICY EDUCATION
Labour policy education is a form of training for
vocational qualification that is offered to unemployed
jobseekers and people who might face unemployment.
The training is free of charge for the students. Students
are, during their studies, entitled to unemployment
benefits and a compensation for costs. The application
process for labour policy education is organised by the
TE offices (Public Employment and Business Services).
Further information: www.te-palvelut.fi/te/en.
VARIOUS TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES
TUVA
Preparatory education for vocational training (TUVA)
starts on 1 August 2022. TUVA education combines
previous supplementary education in basic education,
upper secondary school education (LUVA) and prepara-
tory education for vocational training (VALMA).
TUVA training is for students with
• no secondary education,
• and who for one reason or another need preparatory
training.
TUVA training is aimed at both students and adults who
need skills and / or mentoring to transition to upper sec-
ondary education or vocational training.
The general goal of TUVA education is to achieve the
study skills that will enable a student to apply for and
complete upper secondary education or vocational train-
ing. Study skills can mean, for example, study / study
language skills, suitable study skills and life management
skills. In addition, during TUVA education, grades in
basic education may be increased if it is necessary to ob-
tain the desired training place. In addition to this, the
student can complete high school and vocational educa-
tion studies.
EDUVAMIA TRAINING
As a subcontractor for EduVamia, Vamia produces tai-
lor-made vocational training courses. These courses are a
form of labour policy education and must be arranged ac-
cording to a supply contract. EduVamia purchases the train-
ing service from Vamia. EduVamia has information mate-
rial for trainers on how to implement this type of training.
15
16
PRACTICAL INSTRUCTIONS
EMAIL AND INTRANET
All students get an email account, username and a pass-
word at the beginning of their studies. Student email,
Vamia’s website and Facebook page are used for lines of
communication between Vamia and the students.
WEBSITE vamia.fi
FACEBOOK facebook.com/vamiavaasa
INSTAGRAM @vamiavaasa
YOUTUBE Vamia Vaasa
vamia.fi/en/students
STUDENTA
Studenta is our student register system where students
can keep track of their studies and see their grades. Stu-
dents sign in to the system with their email username.
COLLABORATION WITH THE HOME
Collaboration between home and school starts when a
minor student enrols at the institution and the collab-
oration continues throughout the studies. All units of
the institution organise parents’ nights for the parents
of new students at the beginning of the school year.
Teachers and guardians of minor students can use Stu-
dentaPlus for communication. All guardians of minor
students are given personal usernames and passwords to
the system. Contact information: www.vamia.fi/en.
PRACTICAL INSTRUCTIONS
ACCOMMODATION
Vamia’s students can apply for an apartment with the
Student Housing Foundation in Vaasa (VOAS).
Contact VOAS: phone +358 (0)6 327 6511 or online
www.voas.fi.
STUDENT ID CARD
Vamia’s students are photographed for picture ID cards.
Students can also join a student association and get a
national student card. With the student card students
are entitled to various benefits and discounts on products
and services. More information on vocational students’
associations and application form are online at the asso-
ciations’ websites: osku.info/english and sakkiry.fi
Students who are entitled to student financial aid
(opintotuki) from Kela can also get VR transport
subsidy. Students can also get a student card for VR and
Matkahuolto, that entitles them to a 50 % discount on
train and bus tickets. For this card, you need a certificate
that states you are currently a student at Vamia. You
can get this form from the student office or download it
from the VR website: www.vr.fi (an official school stamp
required).
Students can also apply for international students cards
(ISIC/IYTC/Euro26) with which they are entitled to
student discounts in Finland and abroad. Further infor-
mation on the international student cards online:
www.isic.org and euro26.org.
In order to apply for an external student card you can get
a student status certificate from the Vamia student office.
17
CERTIFICATES AND
TRANSCRIPTS OF STUDY RECORDS
Students can monitor their progress through Student-
sPlus system. Students can also get a transcript of study
records that states what they have completed so far.
At the end of their studies, students get a qualification
certificate. In case the student does not finish their
studies, a transcript of study records and a certificate of
termination of studies will be given.
Students graduating with a vocational upper second-
ary qualification in the spring or at Christmas will be
invited to a graduation ceremony. Graduates of voca-
tional and special vocational examinations and TUVA
will receive their certificates at events arranged by the
teacher in charge.
INSURANCE
Students within vocational education and training
(self-motivated education) are insured as is regulated by
law.
Students within labour policy education are covered by
insurance at school, at the workplace and on their way
to and from school.
Apprenticeship students are insured by their employer,
as members of staff.
STUDYING COSTS
Studying for a vocational upper secondary qualification
is free of charge. Further and specialist vocational quali-
fications have a course fee (excluding apprenticeship and
labour policy education). Students do have to purchase
course books and other study material.
18
EATING
We have daytime student cafeterias on both campuses;
Appetito on the Hansa Campus (Ruutikellarintie 2) and
Melinda on the Sampo Campus (Sepänkyläntie 16).
Also, on both campuses students can eat their own food
and snacks in lounges reserved for this. The students
have access to a microwave oven, a fridge as well as
vending machines for coffee and snacks. On the Hansa
Campus, there is also a café (Namia) as well as a café/
restaurant Silveria (Ruutikellarintie 4). For the sake of
cleanliness and to keep the environment nice and neat,
eating in other school facilities is prohibited.
Vocational upper secondary qualification students can
eat free of charge in Appetito and Melinda by showing
their ID card. Students have the right to have one hot
meal per those school days when they have contact
teaching at their school. Students swipe their student
ID card at the cashier in the cafeteria. The students have
the right to a daily meal also when they are training at
a workplace. The meal is paid for by the school and stu-
dents can eat at either the workplace or a nearby school.
A doctor’s certificate must be provided for special diets.
Labour policy education students, apprenticeship stu-
dents and the students who receive integration training
benefits are not entitled to a free meal but get a discount
on lunch by showing their ID card.
PRACTICAL INSTRUCTIONS
19
STUDENT WELFARE SERVICES
SPECIAL SUPPORT
In order to meet the set qualification requirements
and targeted learning outcomes, students who require
special support due to learning difficulties, disability,
illness or other reasons, have the right to such support.
Special support means systematic pedagogical support
and special teaching and studying arrangements that
are planned according to the student’s study goals and
abilities. Providing special support is a part of furthering
the student’s overall rehabilitation.
For students who receive special support it is possible
to adjust the assessment criteria of competence for a
vocational upper secondary qualification, to the extend
the adjustment is considered inevitable when taking into
account the individual study goals and abilities of the
student in question. There are some qualification-specif-
ic limitations to the adjustment process.
The individual needs of students who receive special
support are taken into account in all teaching. Special
support aims at helping the student to complete their
studies and acquire the vocational skills and knowledge
listed in the qualification requirements. If you should
have any questions about special support or your own
studies, you can ask Vamia’s special needs teachers.
Contact information for special needs teachers can be
found on Vamia’s website at www.vamia.fi/en.
20
GUIDANCE COUNSELLING
All students in Vamia have the right to sufficient
personal and otherwise necessary guidance counselling
during their studies. Guidance counsellors help the
students to plan their studies, improve their studying
skills, apply for further education and find employment.
The purpose of guidance counselling is to ensure that
students know how to study at Vamia, to plan their
studies and commit to their studies. Students learn also
to monitor the progress of their studies and seek support
for planning their studies in case they need it. Guid-
ance counselling pays special attention to the transition
points and moving from one level of education to anoth-
er. Particular attention is also given to those students
who have difficulties in studying, are frequently absent
or encounter problems with general life skills.
Contact information for guidance counsellors can be
found on Vamia’s website at www.vamia.fi/en.
VAMIAGUIDE
Admission, guidance and counselling services Vam-
iaGuide helps and guides new applicants with questions
about applying to education and vocational selection.
Students gets help e.g. career counselling and jobb
search.
Contact information for VamiaGuide can be found on
Vamia´s web site www.vamia.fi/en
STUDENT WELFARE SERVICES
SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKERS
The primary task of school social workers is to support,
help and guide individual students when their studies
are affected by e.g. social or psychological problems.
The aim of school social workers’ contribution is to
ensure that students graduate as capable and motivated
professionals. In addition to the individual work they do
with students, the school social workers participate in
enhancing the entire school’s wellbeing.
Contact information for school social workers can be
found on Vamia’s website at www.vamia.fi/en.
SCHOOL NURSES /
STUDENT HEALTH CARE
Student health care aims to support and advance the
students’ health as a whole. During their studies, the
students are entitled to the public student health care
services organised by the city of Vaasa free of charge.
Services are mainly provided by public health nurses
and, where needed, also by a student health care doctor,
a psychologist, a psychiatric nurse or a general practi-
tioner.
Students of over 18 years of age have to pay a fee for
doctor’s appointments at a public health care centre.
Minors who live in Vaasa are also entitled to cost-free
dental care. There are set fees for treatments and check-
ups for patients over 18 years of age. Residents of other
municipalities can get dental care in Vaasa in urgent
situations, but for other treatment and check-ups they
have to contact their local dental care unit. Students or
their guardians must inform the school health care and
STUDENT WELFARE SERVICES
the student’s own teacher in case the student has any
substantial health-related issues, such as asthma, diabe-
tes, epilepsy, allergies etc.
This information is not transferred automatically
between officials. Health information may sometimes
be crucial for legal, occupational health and safety and
other reasons.
CONTACT INFORMATION FOR SCHOOL NURSES
Hansa (Ruutikellarintie 2-4),
040 649 5443, 040 649 5131, 040 656 5433
Sampo (Sepänkyläntie 16),
040 145 2766 and 040 656 5332
PSYCHOLOGIST /
PSYCHIATRIC NURSE
Psychological services are arranged as part of student
health care together with Vaasa’s public social and
health care services. Services are provided by a psycholo-
gist and a psychiatric nurse. For booking an appoint-
ment, contact the school nurse, a doctor, your group’s
coordinating teacher or the school social worker.
21
SOCIAL BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS
STUDENT FINANCIAL AID
Student financial aid is meant to secure a student’s
income during their studies.
STUDENT FINANCIAL AID INCLUDES
• study grant
• provider supplement
• government guarantee for a student loan
Student financial aid is available for full-time studies,
which means an average progress of 4.5 competence
points per month.
FURTHER INFORMATION Vamia student office and
www.kela.fi/web/en
ADULT EDUCATION ALLOWANCE
For full-time studies, you can get an adult education
allowance. The allowance is available for students within
vocational upper secondary, further and special voca-
tional qualification studies. To be eligible, you have to
participate in self-motivated education, be employed and
to have worked for a minimum of eight years in total.
Moreover, you will have to have worked for your current
employer for at least a year before starting studies on the
allowance. You can apply for adult education allowance
for a minimum period of two months of unpaid study
leave (receiving no salary during that time). The maxi-
mum period for studying on adult education allowance
is 15 months. Study leave is a statutory right and you
have to apply for it from your employer.
FURTHER INFORMATION Guidance counsellors and
www.tyollisyysrahasto.fi/en/
22
SELF-MOTIVATED STUDYING ON
UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFIT
Students who are over 25 years of age can study on
unemployment benefit. Students have to contact the
TE office for further information. When studies are
supported by unemployment benefit, studying has to be
full-time.
SCHOOL TRANSPORT SUBSIDY
School transport subsidy covers daily expenses of school
transport. The subsidy is available only for full-time
students.
CRITERIA FOR ELIGIBILITY FOR
SCHOOL TRANSPORT SUBSIDY
• distance between home and school is over
10 kilometres (one way)
• school transport expenses exceed 54 euros per month
• student has to travel (one way) at least 7 times
per week
A STUDENT CAN APPLY FOR SCHOOL TRANSPORT SUBSIDY IF
• they are studying for a vocational
upper secondary qualification
• they are doing a general upper secondary and
a vocational degree as combination studies
• they are participating in preparatory training
(VALMA)
For further information on the financial aids
ask the Vamia student office.
SOCIAL BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS
SCHOLARSHIP FOR
QUALIFIED EMPLOYEE
The scholarship for qualified employee can
be granted on completing any of the following
qualifications as defined in the Act on
Vocational Education (531/2017)
• vocational upper secondary qualification
• further vocational qualification
• specialist vocational qualification,
if the degree is completed on or after
1.1.2018.
For all recipients, the sum of the
scholarship is 400 euros and can be
granted if the applicant is under 68 years of
age when they complete the qualification. To
be eligible, an applicant has to have permanent
residence in Finland and a work history of at
least 5 years.
Further information on the scholarship:
www.tyollisyysrahasto.fi/en/benefits-for-adult-
students/scholarships-for-qualified-employees/

SOCIAL BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS

ORIENTATION
AT THE BEGINNING OF YOUR STUDIES

GETTING TO KNOW THE COORDINATING TEACHER AND FELLOW STUDENTS

• Tutor students are there to help when needed .
• Class groups elect an elder among them and agree on basic rules for the group .
• Group selects a means for communication (e.g. a WhatsApp group).

FORMS, CERTIFICATES AND THE ID CARD

• Students who have applied through the joint application system check with their coordinating teacher, that
they have handed in all the obligatory forms and certificates .
• Students who have applied through continuous admission fill in a form stating they confirm their admission.
• The coordinating teacher informs students when they will have their pictures taken for the ID card.

GETTING TO KNOW THE STUDENT GUIDE

• The guide material is read through thoroughly.

GETTING TO KNOW THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND SAFETY ISSUES

• Learning environments and common facilities.
• Student office, Vamia Guide and e.g. the offices of the school nurse, the school social worker,
guidance counsellor and special needs teacher.
• Safety walk, the school area and rules and regulations.
• The procedures in accidents and cases of illness.

SOCIAL BENEFITS FOR STUDENTS

• The student office and guidance counsellors have the necessary forms you need for applying for social
benefits (e.g. student financial aid and forms for the TE office).

24 ORIENTATION
 STUDY MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT
• The coordinating teachers tell their students what equipment the students have to buy and what is provided
by the school (clothing, work footware, books etc.).
• Where necessary, students are given keys to lockers.

SCHEDULES, SCHOOL DAYS AND SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

• The coordinating teacher goes through the weekly schedule and shows where you can find it.

PERSONAL COMPETENCE DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PCDP)

• Together with their coordinating teacher and, occasionally, a guidance counsellor, the students draft a
personal competence development plan (PCDP). Information about prior learning and competence is
included in the plan. Moreover, the plan should state how the student will acquire competence, what
support measures the student needs and how competence is demonstrated. Students are also informed of
the optional study paths for basic vocational upper secondary qualifications.
• Some students are asked to do a literacy skills test and other level test. Coordinating teachers will give
further information on the tests.
• Students who require special support meet up with a special needs teacher who draws up a plan for support
measures.

INTRODUCTION TO THE VAMIA.FI WEBSITE,

OFFICE365 AND STUDENTAPLUS STUDENT REGISTER SYSTEM
• Coordinating teachers give their students student.vaasa.fi email addresses and usernames
to access the school computers.
• Coordinating teachers introduce the Office365, StudentaPlus and vamia.fi websites to their students.

ORIENTATION 25
 INFO FOR DUAL QUALIFICATION STUDIES
(VOCATIONAL QUALIFICATION & MATRICULATION EXAMINATION)
• The guidance counsellor invites dual qualification students to an info session.

GETTING TO KNOW THE STUDENT WELFARE SERVICES STAFF

• Coordinating teachers inform their students on the schedule.

EATING AT SCHOOL
• Some of the students are entitled to a free meal on schooldays. You get further information on eating at school
from your coordinating teacher.
• If you are on a special diet or have allergies, inform the school kitchen.

TRAINING AGREEMENT
• Coordinating teachers inform their students on on-the-job learning and on the training agreement.
• Coordinating teachers inform their students of the possibility of an apprenticeship in case the student is
paid during their on-the-job learning period (e.g. an apprenticeship in the summer).

ASSESSMENT, IDENTIFICATION AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING

• Coordinating teachers explain the assessment procedure and the basic principles of identification and
recognition of prior learning.

COMPETITIONS
• Skills Finland - vocational skills competition
• SAKUstars - culture event and competition

STUDENT REPRESENTATION AND EQUALITY

• Student representation in e.g. the working group for equality, the student welfare team,
the student council and the disciplinary board.
• Introduction to the work of the student council.
• Introduction to what tutor students do.

26 ORIENTATION
ORIENTATION
DURING YOUR STUDIES

RE-READING THE STUDENT GUIDE

• Coordinating teachers will go through the essentials of the student guide with their group when necessary,
for example after a summer break.

PERSONAL COMPETENCE DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PCDP)

• Coordinating teachers take care of updating the PCDP’s with their students. Other experts can participate
in updating the plan if so needed.
• Coordinating teachers and their students monitor the students’ progress of studies together.

INTRODUCTION TO THE OCCUPATIONS OF THE FIELD AND THE WORKPLACES

• Coordinating teachers organise student visits to the workplaces and for working life representatives to visit
the school.
• Students participate in events that promote employment.
• Coordinating teachers inform students on the current job market and vacant positions.
• Students get advice on finding a job in a module called ‘Study and career planning capabilities’.

FINDING INFORMATION ON FURTHER STUDIES

• Students participate in info sessions and possible visits to e.g. universities of applied sciences.
• Guidance counsellors help and advice in matters related to applying.

FEEDBACK SURVEYS
• Students are asked to fill in feedback forms during their studies.

ORIENTATION 27
ORIENTATION
AT THE END OF YOUR STUDIES

PERSONAL COMPETENCE DEVELOPMENT PLAN (PCDP)

• Coordinating teachers update the PCDP’s with their students. Other experts can participate in updating the
plan if so needed.
• Coordinating teachers and their students monitor the students’ progress of studies together. If there is need for
it, the guidance counsellor helps out with planning how to complete the missing studies.

FINDING EMPLOYMENT
• Coordinating teachers / vocational teachers / guidance counsellors inform the students on the current job
market and vacant positions in their field.
• In the ’Study and career planning capabilities’ module, the students draw up documents they need in
applying for work.
• Students participate in events that promote employment.
• Possibly registering at the TE office as a jobseeker.

APPLYING FOR FURTHER STUDIES

• Guidance counsellors inform on the application dates and can help out with drawing up the applications

GRADUATION
• Students graduate within the schedule planned in their PCDP.
• Graduation ceremonies will be held for students graduating with a vocational upper secondary qualification in
the spring and at Christmas. At other times, graduates will receive their certificates at times agreed separately.

28 ORIENTATION
RULES AND REGULATIONS
VAMIA’S RULES AND REGULATIONS
1. The purpose of these rules is to enhance order 7. Students must be cautious when handling the
within the institution and to secure an unimpeded school’s property. If students damage or misplace
possibility to study and the safety and wellbeing of school property, they are obliged to notify the
everybody within the community. These rules and staff immediately. For any intentional damage, the
regulations are to be adhered to on the institution’s student is liable for compensation.
premises during studies and related events. 8. The premises and the surrounding areas must be
2. Students must attend tuition as described in their kept clean. Everybody is responsible for picking up
personal competence development plan. after themselves and clean or tidy up any school
3. All forms of bullying, making threats, harassment property or area they have stained or brought into
and physical violence are absolutely prohibited. disarray.
4. Students must behave in an orderly manner and 9. Eating and drinking take place in designated
adhere to these rules as well as to any instructions facilities.
on tuition, occupational safety or general codes 10. Vamia is not responsible for any property left at the
of conduct given by the staff. While at school, premises.
students must respect their fellow students and
members of staff and use appropriate language.
Students must adhere to instructions on appropri-
ate clothing.
5. Students must apply appropriate methods of study.
This entails e.g. a zero tolerance for plagiarism.
Also, it is considered good study manners to adhere
to schedules.
6. It is prohibited to publish any photographs taken
on the institution’s premises on the internet, on
social media or on any other public platforms if
a person can be recognised from the picture and
they have not consented to the publication of said
photo.

30 RULES AND REGULATIONS

11. Vamia’s property is not to be taken outside the
premises without permission.
12. General safety, fire safety and occupational health
and safety regulations are applied to all work at the
school. Everybody must adhere to these instruc-
tions on safety and occupational health and safety
and use personal protective gear as set by occupa-
tional safety instructions. In case of occupation-
al safety risks or an accident, the staff must be
informed immediately.
13. Students have to park their vehicles in designated
parking areas. The institution premises are super-
vised by the public parking control.
14. Computers and networks at the institution are to
be used for studying. All other use is prohibited.
It is also prohibited to use a mobile phone during
classes, if not otherwise instructed. If so needed,
the students will have to place their mobile phones
at a place designated by the teacher for the dura-
tion of teaching.
15. Vamia is a non-smoking institution. Smoking on
the institution’s premises is prohibited.
16. Vamia is an alcohol, drug, and other intoxi-
cant-free institution. The possession, use and being
under the influence of any intoxicating substances
is prohibited.
RULES AND REGULATIONS
17. It is prohibited to bring to the premises or to,
during the day, possess any such items or substanc-
es that are prohibited by other laws or that could
put its holder or anyone else in danger or that
could particularly be used to damage property and
the possession of which cannot be validated by an
acceptable reason.
18. All staff members see to it that these rules and reg-
ulations are adhered to. Any cases of breaking the
rules and the causes thereof must be inspected im-
mediately. Teachers and the principal have, where
needed, the right to check student’s possessions and
to confiscate any items or substances that can be
considered as disturbing or dangerous.
19. The principal and the teachers have the right to
remove from the premises a student who disturbs
teaching or behaves in a violent or threatening
manner.
20. For any breaking of the rules and regulations the
consequences are either a verbal warning, a written
warning, temporary expulsion, a ban from attend-
ing tuition or the revocation of one’s right to study.
31
 HANSA CAMPUS
Ruutikellarintie 2-4, 65100 Vaasa
Phone (06) 325 7411

SAMPO CAMPUS
Sepänkyläntie 16, 65100 Vaasa
Phone (06) 325 7411

RESTAURANT SILVERIA
Ruutikellarintie 4, 65100 Vaasa
Phone 040 770 9236

STUDIO PARCOS
Ruutikellarintie 2, 65100 Vaasa
www.studioparcos.fi