September brings with it the bustle of school beginnings across Poznań. From welcome speeches in new, state-of-the-art facilities to practical tips for families new to Poland, this article provides the guidance expat parents need to feel at home—and at ease—when the 2025/2026 school year in Poznań dawns. It’s also a glimpse into how Poland organizes education, what to expect from enrolment, and where to find English-language options for children. Whether your family is here for a year or the long term, the start of school is a milestone worth preparing for.
When and How the 2025/2026 School Year in Poznań Kicks Off
In early September, nearly 84,000 pupils, kindergartners, 9,600 teachers, and about 4,000 staff started the 2025/2026 school year in Poznań. The official inauguration took place at the new Zespół Szkolno-Przedszkolny nr 20 in Strzeszyn, with both Preschool No. 201 and Primary School No. 99 opening their doors for the first time.
This is the city’s biggest education project since 1990. The Y-shaped building separates wings for age groups and brings them together in a hub with a gym, cafeteria, and library. Outdoor facilities include playgrounds, three sports courts, bike shelters with solar panels, and a football pitch with a running track. The sports complex and library branch will also serve residents after school hours.
Understanding Poland’s School System: A Guide for Expats
Poland’s education structure might seem unfamiliar—but here’s a clear breakdown:
- Preschool (Przedszkole): For ages 3–6, optional but invaluable for socializing and early Polish language skills. For most children, one year of “0th grade” (zerówka) before Grade 1 is compulsory.
- Primary School (Szkoła Podstawowa): Runs for 8 years, covering ages 7 to 15 (Grades 1–8). Grades 1–3 are taught by generalist teachers; Grades 4–8 switch to subject specialists. At the end of Grade 8 children take a national exam—mandatory, but with no pass threshold.
- Secondary School Options: From age 15+, students can choose:
- 4-year general secondary school (Liceum) → Matura exam
- 5-year technical secondary school (Technikum) → Vocational diploma + Matura
- Vocational schools (Branżowa szkoła) with different tracks suited to practical trades
Education remains compulsory until age 18, extending beyond primary school.
What Expats Should Know About Enrolment
For expat families, enrolling children in a Polish school can feel daunting, but the system is accessible. Public schools are free and open to all residents, including foreign children, provided the family has legal residence in Poland.
To register, you’ll typically need a birth certificate (translated if needed), proof of residence, and parent ID. Health records may also be requested. Applications are usually made directly at the school near your address. If full, the city will help assign another school.
Many schools provide language support classes for newcomers. These can include Polish-as-a-foreign-language lessons or extra tutoring hours. Meeting teachers early helps set realistic expectations and supports smoother integration into the 2025/2026 school year in Poznań.
Looking for Education in English?
For those seeking English-language instruction, Poznań offers several international and bilingual schools. These are fee-based but provide smoother cultural transitions for expat children.
- International School of Poznań (ISOP): An IB World School for ages 3–19, offering the full IB continuum. Tuition typically ranges from 35,000 to 60,000 PLN per year, depending on grade level.
- Poznań British International School (PBIS): A smaller school with the International Primary Curriculum (IPC), combined with Polish elements. It is aimed at ages 2½–16. Fees range between 25,000 and 40,000 PLN annually.
These schools are popular, so applying well before September is recommended.
Summer Renovations Across Poznań Schools
Beyond the new Strzeszyn complex, the city invested heavily in upgrading existing schools during the break. In 2025, over 230 schools and preschools underwent renovations, from classroom painting and bathroom modernizations to roof repairs and new sports fields. More than 80 million PLN was allocated, a third more than in 2024. While most projects finished before September, some will continue into autumn without disturbing lessons. These efforts ensure safer, more modern spaces for the 2025/2026 school year in Poznań.
Schools as a Gateway to Belonging
Whether you choose a public school with Polish peers or an international campus, Poznań schools are more than just classrooms. They serve as community hubs, cultural bridges, and safe places for growth. With nearly 4,300 first-graders starting this year, expat families can step confidently into the 2025/2026 school year in Poznań, knowing their children are part of a system that values both learning and belonging.
