Finnish daycare centres in affluent areas struggle most to recruit qualified teachers

A new study by the University of Eastern Finland reveals that early childhood education centres in high-income residential areas face the greatest difficulties in recruiting qualified teachers, a challenge linked to low wages in the profession, Yle reports.

Researchers analysed open job listings from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment and interviewed early education staff. While recruitment struggles are widespread—particularly in the Helsinki metropolitan area, eastern and northern Finland, and rural regions—the study highlighted an unexpected trend: affluent neighbourhoods find it especially hard to attract qualified teachers.

Heidi Huilla, a university lecturer leading the research, suggests the issue stems from educators being unable to afford housing in expensive areas on their salaries. “Qualified staff bring a broader perspective to daily work and help grasp the depth of an early childhood educator’s role,” Huilla noted in a statement.

The shortage disrupts daily routines in daycare centres, with frequent staff turnover making it difficult to maintain structured early education plans. The study, covering 2017–2024, found recruitment challenges peaked during the pandemic years.

Demand for qualified teachers will rise further as stricter qualification requirements take effect in 2030. Currently, one in three staff members must hold a relevant degree, but this will increase to two in three—either as early childhood educators or social workers.

Researchers plan to next examine how staff turnover affects children’s experiences in daycare.