In Poland, international schools are becoming increasingly popular. In truth, there is nothing surprising about this – as a parent, you certainly want the very best possible start into adult life for your children, and international schools not only provide a high level of education, but also focus on developing the passions and interests of their students. What is worth knowing about this type of education?
Why should parents consider an international school option for their child?
International educational institutions differ not only in terms of curriculum, but also in the approach to the educational process itself. Graduates of international schools are better prepared for work and life abroad.
The most important difference, apart from the obvious fact of learning in a different language, is that at international schools learning is not just about dry acquisition of knowledge in subjects such as biology or mathematics, but also about developing soft skills, which are extremely important in modern professional world. Thanks to their innovative approach to learning, graduates from these institutions have the opportunity to continue their studies at top universities around the world.
What is it like to study at an international school?
At an international school, learning takes place primarily in a foreign language. This is usually English, although this of course depends on the profile of the particular school. Importantly, students are not subject to the Polish curriculum or grading system. This is because these establishments rely on guidelines prepared by foreign ministries of education or other institutions that are their counterparts in a given country (in England it is the ‘Department of Education’). This is a key difference between international schools and Polish bilingual schools, which have also gained in popularity in recent years.
Thames British School Warsaw – leader in international education in Poland
When choosing the right school for your child, it is worth bearing in mind that in bilingual schools some classes are held in the foreign language, but the Polish curriculum applies. At Thames British School Warsaw, on the other hand, all classes are taught in English as the first language and the curriculum follows the guidelines of the National Curriculum for England.
At Thames British School Warsaw, the greatest emphasis is not only on imparting knowledge, but also on developing the personal and individual potential of each student. International schools pay particular attention to providing a safe environment in which students can develop their interests and passions. In contrast to the Polish teaching system, students here are not prepared to answer according to a ready-made scheme or answer key, but rather to develop open and creative thinking.
Advantages of international school graduates in the labour market and academia
As mentioned, international school students are exposed to a foreign language from an early age, enabling them to become fluent in that language, which naturally facilitates functioning in an international academic and professional environment. For many parents, it is also important that international school students learn tolerance, openness to other cultures and acquire a wide range of soft skills and competences that are highly valued by today’s employers.
Is an international school a good choice for your child?
When is it a good idea to opt for an international school? In most cases, deciding to enrol your child in an international school – is a very good idea, especially if, for example, you are planning to send your child to study abroad or you intend to move the whole family there. Many international schools, including Thames British School Warsaw, are part of the International Baccalaureate (IB) education programme, which enables you to obtain the International Baccalaureate, which in turn opens doors to universities abroad. The IB aims to nurture competent, inquisitive and sensitive people who will contribute to building a better world.
Summary – why is an international school a smart investment in the future?
The mission of Thames British School Warsaw, like other international schools, is to shape open-minded, sensitive, tolerant and competent individuals who can think critically and creatively – such students are better prepared to compete in the job market. We believe that they are the ones who will change our world for the better, tapping into the vast reserves of empathy and understanding and becoming the leaders of the future world.
In conclusion, studying at an international school is worth considering as an investment in your child’s future. Graduates of these institutions have easier access to the world’s best universities, thanks to their fluency in a foreign language and high level of knowledge. If you are considering such an educational path for your children – take a look at the offer of Thames British School Warsaw.