It’s no secret that the landscape of education and schools is changing. Today, studying at foreign universities is a dream that has become a reality for many students in Kraków, and a globally recognized education is a treasure sought after. Parents and students alike are becoming more conscious of their choices, looking for schools that can pave the way for young ones to chase their ambitious dreams and equip them for the ever-evolving world of the 21st century, where borders are no longer barriers to future careers. Krakow is a city that’s risen to meet this need, housing a variety of international schools that cater to a diverse range of students.
- I think You also may be interested in reading this article: Poland’s Student Cities: A Comparison of Costs, Life and Education
International schools are not just for foreigners, kids from mixed families, or children of diplomats who are in Poland for a short period. If you live in and around Krakow, or its neighboring areas like Zielonki, Wola Batorska, Wieliczka, Skawina and Liszki, you’d find a plethora of these schools that also open their doors to local students. They offer a spectrum of stimulating programs for every level from primary school to high school. Let me say, these institutions are really a boon for students wanting to get a head start in their global careers.
| Year | Number of Foreign Students in Poland |
|---|---|
| 2014 | 46,475 |
| 2015 | 57,000 |
| 2016 | 64,000 |
| 2017 | 72,000 |
| 2018 | 82,000 |
| 2019 | 89,000 |
| 2020 | Not available |
| 2021 | 120,000 |
Krakow’s International Schools – A Closer Look
Krakow offers a diverse selection of high-quality international schools that cater to different curriculums and learning styles. Here, we delve deeper into the offerings of a few popular ones.
British International School of Cracow (BISC)
BISC provides a globally recognized British curriculum to students aged 3-18 hailing from 26 different nations. The school places a strong emphasis on providing a challenging, personalized educational experience that extends learning opportunities beyond the classroom. The diverse student body gives your child a chance to interact with peers from various backgrounds and cultures, further broadening their global perspective.
↳ Make sure to read my guide to the most amazing places to stay in Kraków:
How to Find Best Place to Stay in Krakow Old Town – Your Guide
Find out more at: https://bisc.krakow.pl
Cracow International School
This school offers a blend of the Cambridge International AS & A Levels and the Polish National Curriculum. The combination of these programs gives students a comprehensive understanding of international and local academic standards, preparing them to excel in higher education settings both in Poland and abroad.
Embassy International School
While the specific curriculum and offerings of Embassy International School were not mentioned in the list, international schools typically offer a globally recognized curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate or a national curriculum such as the American or British system. Such schools are known for their diverse student bodies, quality education, and a broad range of extracurricular activities.
International School of Krakow (ISK)
ISK is a standout option in Krakow, holding accreditations from the New England Association of Schools & Colleges, the Council of International Schools, and the International Baccalaureate. This multi-cultural school prides itself on its diverse community and its commitment to providing a world-class education that prioritizes personal well-being and development.
Visit their website at: https://iskonline.org
Open Future International School
Open Future International School is unique in that it is the first school in Krakow to have successfully passed the Primary Years Program authorization process in the International Baccalaureate Organization curriculum. This indicates a high standard of teaxching and learning in line with the globally recognized IB framework.
All these schools, each with their unique strengths, offer an array of challenging and engaging programs that cater to students from the elementary to high school levels. In choosing an international school, parents and students can consider the curriculum, culture, and offerings that best meet their educational needs and aspirations.
What Makes These Schools Stand Out
The increasing number of non-public international schools in Poland is a testament to the country’s economic growth and the influx of foreigners – be it diplomats, investors, or employees of various companies. Among these schools, there’s a vast array of private kindergartens, non-public primary schools, and secondary schools. You might be wondering, what exactly makes these schools 'international’? Well, the answer lies in their curricula.
While bilingual schools follow the Polish core curriculum with elements from other countries and conduct education in two languages, international schools teach entirely in a foreign language, usually English, and follow selected foreign programs. So, I am convinced, these schools really offer an immersive experience that prepares students for a global career. Sometimes, the whole school follows the international model, and sometimes, specific classes or sections do.
Don’t worry if your child doesn’t speak Polish! These schools provide a supportive environment where your child can comfortably learn without the language barrier. Plus, they’ll pick up Polish at least at the primary level.
Characteristics of Krakow’s International Schools
Many of Krakow’s international schools come with a tradition that spans over two decades. These institutions encompass kindergarten, primary school, and high school under one roof. The teaching predominantly takes place in a foreign language, sometimes even in two. The schools follow both Polish and foreign curricula, catering to a diverse group of students from various countries.
One prominent feature of these schools is the International Baccalaureate program, sometimes offered for all levels of study, as well as Advanced Placement courses. The most popular among these is the International Baccalaureate program at the general secondary school level, conducted entirely in English, French, or Spanish, and culminating in the matriculation exam IB DP program. Also, these schools offer courses in other foreign languages and an array of extracurricular activities, providing a holistic learning environment.
How are These Schools Equipped
As you would expect, Krakow’s international schools are housed in modern, well-equipped buildings.
From gymnasiums and dance halls to school theaters and canteens, sports fields, libraries, and labs for computers, science, and languages, students have everything they need to foster their learning.
When it comes to safety, these schools don’t compromise. I know these institutions ensure student safety with guarded and monitored premises. No one can casually stroll in, and younger students can’t leave the school grounds unless accompanied by a teacher or guardian. Even older students need written consent from their parents or guardians.
Rest assured, all students and teachers are covered by insurance both inside and outside the school. So, if you’re considering an international education for your child, Krakow is indeed a city that should be on your list.
The Cost of International School Education
No doubt, international schools provide an enriching and globally recognized educational experience, but this does come with a price tag. The tuition fees for a year of study can reach tens of thousands of zlotys. It’s worth mentioning, though, that these fees usually cover a whole lot more than just academic learning. Extra-curricular activities are often part of the package.
To apply for admission, you’ll need to submit a set of documents like recommendation letters and past school records, and, oh yes, don’t forget the registration fee, which often isn’t refundable.
What Do These Schools Offer?
The array of extra-curricular activities at international schools is truly impressive. Whether your child is into sports, music, arts, tech, or languages, there’s a club or a class they can join. They’ve got everything from ballet, gymnastics, swimming, and football to robotics, programming, and language classes.
But that’s not all. Students also have access to resources like a school psychologist, pedagogue, speech therapist, and medical office. In addition, international schools in Krakow create a sense of community with open communication among students, parents, teachers, and school administration.
They keep parents and guardians in the loop with newsletters, blogs, an online gradebook, and scheduled meetings. They also organize various events like trips, camps, family picnics, open days, and school performances, offering a vibrant school life.
Pros and a Cons of Krakow’s International Schools
Private and non-public international schools in Krakow are becoming an increasingly popular choice. And for good reasons! These institutions don’t just focus on high-level academiccs. They also ensure the comprehensive development of their students – be it physical, emotional, or social.
They aim to instill a love for learning, kindle their curiosity, build self-confidence, and foster independence. If you’re considering these schools, it is worth to note their several advantages.
Advantages
- High standards: These schools are known for their ambitious and demanding programs, offering a wide range of challenging subjects. The education here aligns with high teaching standards applied in American, British, or Polish schools, and in many cases, follows the requirements of the International Baccalaureate.
- Unlimited growth: Most of these schools offer opportunities for comprehensive academic development. Students can develop their language skills, attend Advanced Placement (AP) courses, or start the IB DP program.
- Language competence: Students have the option to learn in their mother tongue, a foreign language, or both. They can also learn additional languages like French, German, Italian, or Spanish.
- Small class sizes: Most classes have no more than 15 students, ensuring personalized attention and help from the teacher.
- Well-resourced: These schools, often well-funded, have modern facilities and classrooms equipped with the latest teaching aids, including top-notch sports facilities.
- Broadening horizons: The diverse student body gives kids the opportunity to learn about different countries, backgrounds, and cultures. Being in Poland, children from abroad get to explore a new country and its rich history, culture, and customs. They also have the chance to visit other European countries during school trips.
Disadvantage
- Costs: The flip side is the cost. These world-class educational experiences come with a hefty price tag, given the renowned teaching methods, high-quality teachers, and extra-curricular offerings. But if you look at it as an investment in your child’s future, it’s worth every zloty!
References:
- https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/poland/krakow/international-schools-krakow
- https://iskonline.org
- https://www.ischooladvisor.com/city/Krakow
- https://www.state.gov/international-school-of-krakow-fact-sheet/
- https://bisc.krakow.pl
