Primary School

Lower Primary (years 1, 2 and 3) & Upper Primary (years 4, 5 and 6)

At the Embassy International School we are proud of the measures we have taken to ensure that your child receives a high quality, individualised, deep and wide ranging education. The centrepiece of these measures is our adoption of the International Primary Curriculum, an internationally renowned programme used in 1800 schools across 90 countries based upon research into how children learn and how brains work.

We further complement the benefits of this approach with direct instruction in specialist lessons (Maths and English, Music) to guarantee a rounded and balanced education of a high quality which is fun and exciting, and satisfying as well. A further enhancement to our educational process is the weekly target setting in partnership with the children, our positive disciplinary methods, our weekly assemblies and full extra-curricular life.

What international curriculum does our primary school follow?

The International Primary Curriculum (IPC) combines rigour and breadth through inquiry based learning based on a series of larger, cross-curricular projects and includes a clear process of learning and clear subject specific goals. It helps to provide holistic primary school education. Our Primary School is divided into:

• Lower Primary (years 1, 2, and 3), ages 5-8
• Upper Primary (years 4, 5 and 6), ages 8-11

What is the language of the instruction?

It is of course English, but we also offer foreign language lessons (Spanish, French and German) as well as participation in French or Spanish Club.

What infrastructure do we offer?

We are conveniently located in the centre of Krakow. Our youngest children can enjoy a fully equipped playground. For older children, we have created a safe basketball and football pitch. Classrooms are spacious and modern. In each of them we provide access to sufficient educational resources, such as computers and labs for science classes. We also have a library with a carefully selected selection of educational books and literature for young people.

What extracurricular activities do we offer?

Our students can choose from a wide variety of extracurricular activities, including those focused on academic subjects, sports, music, and foreign language development. These are tailored to different age groups, so even the youngest children can participate.

How do we support students’ integration and social and cultural development?

We understand how important peer contact is for both younger and older children. Student integration occurs not only during classes and breaks, but also through regularly organized trips and camps. Students also get to know each other better through school events, such as concerts, and through artistic activities, which further support their cultural and social development. We foster a multicultural environment in which students can learn from each other.

What accreditations do we hold?

We have received accreditation confirming the quality of our teaching and its compliance with UK education standards. Among other things, we operate as an AQA center, Edexcel center, AQA Oxford center – examination boards authorized to conduct GSCE, AS, and A-level exams. We are also a member of ECIS, an organization that supports international schools in maintaining high educational standards. Finally, we meet the conditions set by local educational authorities.

What is the school calendar and daily schedule at our primary school?

The calendar of our primary school for foreigners is aligned with the calendar of holidays and days off in Poland. Holidays include: All Saints’ Day, Polish Independence Day, Epiphany, Labor Day, and Constitution Day. Additionally, students have time off during fall, winter, and spring breaks, as well as summer vacations. A detailed calendar is available before the start of the school year. Children attending our primary English school usually spend 5-6 hours per day at school.

What does the communication with the parents look like?

Communication with parents at our primary school in Kraków, Poland for foreigners is based on regularly scheduled meetings. The main channel of communication between teachers and parents is email and the language of communication is English. Teachers at our elementary school regularly send parents emails with updates on the curriculum and content related to specific subjects.

Who are our teachers?

We employ experienced and competent teachers who can work with students from different countries. Our staff is characterized by an empathetic attitude and a desire to support students in developing their talents.

How and when do we assess our students?

Grades are issued twice a year – at the end of the first and second semesters. Each report includes information on student effort grade, an attainment grad and a grade reflecting their contribution to school culture. Moreover, teachers provide extensive commentary on each of the pupils. The report also includes information on attendance.

How does the school address cultural issues such as belonging, cultural behavior, and national holidays for students from different countries?

All our students and their parents are treated with respect and kindness. Our teachers are open-minded and strive to set an example for their students. Any disputes arising from cultural differences are resolved on neutral ground, usually in consultation with the principal.

Is there a limited number of places at the school?

There is no clearly defined number of places at the school, but students always study in small classes.

How to apply to our elementary and primary school?

The application process at our primary English school involves completing an application form and submitting it along with the required documents. The next step is attending a meeting with our representatives as well as paying a registration fee.

Is there a waiting list?

There is no waiting list.

Does the school collaborate with universities in Poland or abroad?

We participate in numerous international and local projects, collaborating with various schools, including universities. We have participated in projects such as Cell Biology and Art Class Omnibus – CACAO and W.E.B.S. COMMON ROOTS.