Student Support

The way of supporting students in Grades KG-9 at Qatar-Finland International School is based on the Finnish model of a support system.

The support received by the student is flexible, based on long-term planning, and adjustable as the student’s needs for support change. Support is provided for as long as necessary at the level and in the form indicated by the student’s needs. The organisation of instruction and support is based on the strengths as well as the learning and development needs of each student and teaching group. Attention is paid to the prevention and early recognition of learning difficulties.

Pedagogical expertise and multi-professional cooperation between teaching staff and other professionals providing support is important in identifying and assessing the need for support as well as planning and implementing support measures. The objectives and measures related to guidance are also recorded in the student’s Personal Learning Plan (PLP). When planning the support, close cooperation with the student and the guardian is necessary.

Support is organised in cooperation with guardians, ensuring that each student receives instruction, guidance and support indicated by their level. The students and guardians are informed of the possibilities of receiving support, and the available forms of support. The guardians are also encouraged to support their child in goal‐oriented learning and school attendance.

Differentiation in our school is needed because of different learning styles, cultural backgrounds, language levels and schooling backgrounds. Teachers’ knowledge of their students is what makes differentiation possible, and cooperation between teachers, learning assistants, SEN teachers and school counsellors plays an equally important role in how Qatar-Finland International School makes sure each student’s needs are met. Therefore, in our differentiated classrooms, teachers guide and support students to work towards the learning objectives using tools, strategies, meaningful learning activities, and multiple means of instruction and assessment at different paces that suit the needs of all learners, including low and high achievers.

Q.F.I. School main line

Front desk

Ms Marwa Mahmoud

Head of Admissions

Ms Hanaa Konbaz

IT Support

Mr Bart van Klaveren

Activity Coordinator

Mr Mikko Paasikoski

Guidance Counselling

The guidance counsellor supports students through every stage of their academic journey, from middle school all the way to high school graduation. This role involves far more than just scheduling; it focuses on comprehensive study planning, developing essential learning skills, and providing clear career orientation to ensure studies progress smoothly. By offering timely advice, the guidance counsellor helps engage students with their school community, ensuring they complete their studies on time while preventing social exclusion.

 

The primary goal is for every student to discover a school and career path that truly suits them, preparing them to meet the changing demands of society and working life. A significant portion of this work takes place through individual discussions, small-group counselling, and classroom lessons. These sessions provide a safe, open atmosphere where students can naturally discuss their concerns, identify their personal strengths, and receive help with both compulsory and elective studies.

 

Collaboration is central to successful counselling. The guidance counsellor works closely with guardians, teachers, and school principal to support students who may be at risk or falling behind. This network extends beyond the school gates, connecting with higher education institutions and other professionals as part of the student welfare team to ensure a holistic support system for every learner.