Major change in schools now in effect

6 September 2026 Poland Radar 0 Comments

The new school curriculum Poland began on 1 Sept 2026. Parents should check which classes are affected and what it means for expat families.

The government rolled out a new school curriculum Poland on 1 September 2026. However, it does not apply to every pupil at once, so parents must check their child’s class.

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How the new school curriculum Poland is phased in

The Education Ministry decided to introduce the reform gradually. Consequently, only first and fourth graders in primary schools follow the new rules this year. Moreover, the ministry will add more year groups in the following years. Therefore, siblings in one family may study under different rules. In addition, preschool settings already follow the new program for every child. Parents should therefore verify class lists and school communications.

What changes in teaching and daily school life

The reform shifts the focus from memorising facts to building skills. For example, teachers now emphasise critical thinking and problem solving. Moreover, schools will use more projects, field trips, debates, and practical tasks. Consequently, lessons may look different than before. Schools must organise “educational experiences” that link multiple subjects. However, the exact activities depend on each school’s resources. Therefore, some schools will adapt faster than others.

Why this matters for expat families

Expat parents often ask about language and assessment. First, lessons will still cover core topics. However, students must also develop collaboration and communication skills. Secondly, evaluation may include project work and presentations. Consequently, non-Polish speakers may face different types of classroom tasks. In addition, language support varies by municipality. Parents should contact the school to ask about extra Polish lessons. Moreover, ask whether teachers receive training to apply the new program.

Local authorities fund schools, and municipalities manage enrolment. Therefore, expect variation across cities and towns. For your child, check the school’s parent portal or call the headteacher. Also, confirm practical details like school hours and homework expectations. Finally, remember that some subjects will adopt new rules later. For example, safety education updates will start for eighth graders in 2027.

💡 GOOD TO KNOW: Polish schooling uses official IDs and local systems. You may need a PESEL (the national ID number) to register a child. ZUS handles social security for employed parents, while NFZ covers public health insurance (so register your child with NFZ for healthcare). Consequently, bring the child’s birth certificate and proof of address when you visit the school office. Also, ask if the school offers Polish language support for non-native children. Finally, remember that fines (mandat) for missing mandatory enrolment are rare but possible, so keep paperwork up to date.

Parents should expect a multi-year rollout and local variation. Therefore, check class assignments and school messages now. Moreover, join parent-teacher channels and ask practical questions. The reform may improve practical skills, but implementation will take time.

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