Integration through education: Programs to support foreign schoolchildren in Poland

Every year more and more foreign families choose Poland as a country for temporary or permanent residence. Of particular importance for these families is the issue of integrating their schoolchildren into the new education system. Poland is actively working to create conditions that help foreign children not only adapt to the new environment, but also continue their education without obstacles. In this article, we will look at support programs for foreign students that facilitate their integration into Polish education.

Features of the Polish educational system for foreign students

The Polish education system has certain peculiarities, but in general it is similar to the education system common in the EU countries. Education in Poland begins with primary school (szkoła podstawowa) and lasts for 8 years. After that, students enter secondary school (liceum, technikum or szkoła zawodowa), where they study for another 3-4 years, depending on the type of institution.

Foreign students moving to Poland have the opportunity to attend public schools for free. However, special support programs are available to help them successfully integrate and overcome the language barrier.

Support programs for foreign students

The Polish state, NGOs and educational institutions are developing a number of initiatives aimed at facilitating the adaptation process for foreign children. They include language courses, integration programs and psychological support.

1. Language courses for foreign students

One of the biggest obstacles for foreign children in Poland is the language barrier. Polish schools offer free language courses for foreign students, where these students can learn Polish. Usually, such classes are organized after school or during specially allocated hours, and they help children to adapt to new learning conditions faster.

• Polish language courses: These courses are designed for all levels of language proficiency, from beginner to advanced. Students not only learn grammar and vocabulary, but also develop communication skills for everyday communication.
• Individualized teacher support: Some schools provide individual assistants for international students to help them with their studies, explain the material and facilitate their integration into the classroom.

2. Additional lessons and learning support

In addition to language courses, foreign students are often offered additional classes in other subjects. This helps children who did not have the opportunity to study some subjects in their home country or need extra time to master the curriculum due to differences in educational systems.

• Adjustment of the curriculum: Polish schools often adjust the curriculum for new students to match the child’s level of knowledge and training. Thus, students can avoid additional stress and gradually adapt to the Polish education system.
• Support from tutors: In some cases, foreign children are provided with assistance from tutors who help them to improve their knowledge in certain subjects, which can be especially useful for high school students before exams.

3. Psychological support and adaptation

Adapting to a new country and educational environment can be stressful for children, especially if they face cultural and language difficulties. Schools in Poland are aware of this challenge and offer psychological support for children and their parents.

• School psychologists: Many schools employ school psychologists who provide support to students, helping them to overcome stress, anxiety or adjustment problems. This is especially important for international students, as they may have additional emotional challenges due to the move and change of environment.
• Integration activities: Some schools organize special events aimed at improving the social adaptation of foreign children. These may include cultural festivals, joint projects where students have the opportunity to learn about Polish culture and traditions and share their own.

4. Social initiatives and community support

In addition to government programs, there are many initiatives from NGOs and charitable foundations that help foreign children in Poland. They organize language camps, educational activities, and provide financial assistance to families.

• Charitable foundations: Some organizations, such as the Polish Humanitarian Action (PAH) or the Open Poland Foundation, provide support to foreign students in the form of scholarships, textbooks and other educational materials.
• Language camps and summer schools: In the summer, many organizations offer language camps for foreign children, where they can not only improve their Polish language skills, but also find new friends and adapt to Polish society.

The importance of education for the integration of foreign children

Education is an important element of integration of foreign children into Polish society. It not only helps children to acquire new knowledge and skills, but also contributes to their social development, allowing them to better understand the culture, traditions and values of the new country. In addition, integration programs and support from schools, organizations and the public help to reduce the stress of moving and adaptation, making this process less difficult and more comfortable.

Polish school is a way to integrate children into society

Support programs for foreign students in Poland play a key role in their integration and adaptation to the new educational environment. The Polish state and educational institutions offer a wide range of activities – from language courses to psychological support – to help foreign children feel confident and comfortable in a new country. Thanks to these initiatives, foreign students have the opportunity not only to receive a quality education, but also to successfully integrate into Polish society.