When former multi-academy trust boss Toby Salt was asked where he would like education on the Isle of Wight to be in ten years’ time, he gave a somewhat surprising answer: “To be the Finland of England.” “You could never get a minister to speak about school improvements and standards without saying how wonderful Finland was… I’d like other people to be trotting here to see how you can make a difference.” Finland has long topped international education tables, making it a source of inspiration for UK ministers. Former schools minister Nick Gibb previously coined it as the “doyenne of the international education circuit”. Become a member for unlimited access to Schools Week subscribe Our members enjoy early access to exclusive content and in-depth articles before anyone else. Get expert journalism, experience fewer ads, and unlock a growing range of member benefits.