About HEI Schools

HEI Schools — Our Mission

At HEI Schools we are on a mission to provide high‑quality education to as many children and families in the world as possible.

Following a child‑led, holistic and play‑based learning approach based on Finland's educational model, we want to show the world that learning is fun. And that's not just us saying it — it's based on research. Join us on our journey!

35+ Countries
10+ Years Strong
#1 Edu System
HEI Schools children learning
Since
2015
Our Story

The story of our 10‑year journey

A decade of joyful, child‑led learning captured in moments — explore the world of HEI Schools, one frame at a time.

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Founding Partnership

The University of Helsinki as a founder & shareholder

The HEI Schools model for preschools and kindergartens is developed in cooperation with the University of Helsinki and is based on the principles of Finnish early childhood education.

The University of Helsinki is the oldest and largest university in Finland, repeatedly ranked among the world's top universities. The Department of Teacher Education is the most versatile teacher‑education unit in Finland — currently ranked 22nd in the world.

University of Helsinki — research and pedagogy
22
Teacher Education ranked 22nd globally University of Helsinki
Leadership

Get to know our founders

Three visionaries with decades of combined experience in international education — building HEI Schools from the heart.


Founder Pilvi Torsti

Pilvi Torsti

Founder

Director of the EU Agency European Training Foundation (2023–present) and former State Secretary, Finnish Ministry of Education (2013–15). Over 20 years of experience in international education. One of the three founders of United World College in Mostar (2006). Adjunct Professor at the University of Helsinki.

Co‑Founder Milla Kokko

Milla Kokko

Co‑Founder

Experienced business professional and strategist with deep know‑how in brand and concept building, marketing strategies, and customer experience — both in Finland and internationally.

Co‑Founder Lasse Lipponen

Lasse Lipponen

Co‑Founder

A professor of education with special reference to early childhood education at the Department of Teacher Education, University of Helsinki. Visiting professor and lecturer in early education and teacher training at universities worldwide.