The number of English-speaking schools is steadily increasing, especially in the more literate and prosperous parts of the country.

The alternative is for the children to be educated abroad in English-speaking international schools.

Where their own language is not available, families will often choose English-speaking schools for their children.

It is one of nine English-speaking schools in Finland that offer basic education.

In April 2007 there were 4,179 'English-speaking international schools.

Surveys in the mid-1990's showed that about half the English-speaking medical school graduates emigrated shortly after completing their studies.

Last summer, the English-speaking schools closed ranks against the restrictions.

"You'll all go to an English-speaking school," Mother said.

"In an English-speaking school," I said, "the whole place will be full of misfits."

This exodus is reflected in over 100 English-speaking schools that have closed in recent years.