Sysmä High School, located on the beautiful eastern shore of Lake Päijänne, provides a peaceful and lovely environment for its students. With a steady population of 3,500 residents, Sysmä becomes a lively community of over 10,000 people during the summer and holidays. The school is close to Lahti, just 70 kilometers away, and about 100 kilometers from Jyväskylä, making it easily accessible. Sysmä High School ensures that all necessary services are conveniently available nearby.
Nature:
Sysmä appreciates nature, giving students the chance to explore the wooded beauty of Päijätsalo National Park. Lake Päijänne, known for its breathtaking landscapes and plentiful fish, is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts.
Free-time Activities:
The school provides various recreational facilities, including an indoor swimming pool with a modern gym, the sports hall Päijänne Areena, and an artificial ice rink. Popular indoor sports like floorball, air rifle shooting, and the upcoming versatile sports park add to a lively after-school scene. Skiing trails in winter, a sailing club, frisbee golf, and a mountain biking trail offer more leisure options.
Accommodation:
Sysmä High School organizes housing for out-of-town students, offering shared apartments close to the school. Grocery stores within a kilometer ensure convenience, and apartment rents range from approximately 100-150 euros per month.
School:
The school, opened in the fall of 2022, fosters a warm, active, and collaborative learning community. International students receive dedicated support through personal tutors, support staff, and host families. The school promotes integration through various activities, including a cooking club, participation in youth camp activities, and involvement in cinema and music events.
Studies:
Sysmä High School emphasizes personalized studies, competent teaching, small class sizes, and approachable teachers. Special support is available to help students overcome learning difficulties, with a dedicated teacher always available. The school specializes in electronic sports, with coaching from professional e-sports coach Nico Ilkanheimo. Studies in theatrical arts are also available through local Kuurina Theater activities.
International Opportunities:
Opportunities for global exposure abound, from study trips to Germany to participation in international film festivals. Sysmä High School has committed to a week-long international school film festival in Rome for the next three years. Graduates have numerous university options, including Jyväskylä, Helsinki, Tampere, Aalto University, and LAB University.
Other Highlights:
Driving school is integrated into the curriculum, and the course is free for students. Sysmä High School covers tuition, laptops, lunch, learning materials, textbooks, e-learning environments, student healthcare, tutor facilities, and support staff for housing for both international and local Finnish students.
In summary, Sysmä High School offers not just quality education but a comprehensive and enriching experience, nurturing students in a lively and supportive community.