National defence is closely linked to various areas of life, and participants in the course gain essential knowledge and skills that can be applied in everyday life, even if they are not directly involved in national defence.
The course is taught by experts in the field – active military personnel, members of the Defence League, and reserve officers. The total duration of the national defence education curriculum is 70 lessons, including 35 hours in the classroom and on excursions, and 35 hours of practical training in the field.
The theoretical part covers modern security and defence policy and the structure of the Estonian Defence Forces. The practical overview includes topics such as weapons training, drill, topography, first aid, and environmental protection in the defence forces. The course is based on the curriculum and the national defence education textbook.
Since autumn 2023, teaching the theoretical part of the national defence education course has been mandatory in all upper secondary schools.
The Defence Resources Agency assists schools interested in national defence education in finding a suitable teacher for the subject.
Schools can apply for financial support from the Defence Resources Agency to conduct field trips, cover transportation costs for camps, and purchase educational materials.
National defence education teachers are provided with training and professional development opportunities:
- Every autumn, the Ministry of Defence organises a traditional professional development course for national defence education teachers, covering current defence and security issues as well as developments in national defence education.
- In cooperation with Tallinn University, a course for national defence education teachers is organised, where both teachers and Tallinn University students can enhance their knowledge as part of a supplementary subject.
Last updated: 10.03.2026
