Estonian schools find flexible solution to field trip funding dispute

Education Minister Kristina Kallas has confirmed that schools may organise field trips flexibly going forward, but parents cannot be forced to pay. The clarification comes in response to a public appeal signed by more than 400 organisations and educators.

Estonia's Education and Science Minister [Kristina Kallas](/politicians/kristina-kallas) has responded to a public appeal signed by over 400 organisations and educators, confirming that school field trips can be arranged on a flexible basis — but that parents must not be compelled to contribute financially.

The statement brings some clarity to a situation that had caused widespread concern among schools and educational institutions across Estonia. The open letter, backed by hundreds of pedagogues and civic organisations, called for a workable framework that would allow educational outings to continue without placing an undue financial burden on families.

Following the minister's response, schools and educational institutions are now actively exploring different approaches to manage field trips within the new guidelines. The search for practical solutions reflects the varied circumstances of schools across the country, from urban centres to smaller rural communities where funding options may differ significantly.

The core principle established by Kallas is that participation in school field trips should not depend on a family's ability to pay. While flexibility is permitted in how outings are organised, the financial obligation cannot fall on parents as a requirement.