Finland has a population of around 8,000 people. The primary languages are Finnish and English. Education is free and begins with preschool at age 7, followed by middle and high school. The government is led by a Prime Minister who is elected by Parliament and appointed by the President. Holidays include New Year's Day, Easter, Midsummer and Christmas. Communication is both direct and context-focused, with importance placed on listening. Christianity is practiced, divided between the Orthodox and Lutheran churches.