In a remarkable initiative to enrich the educational experience, the Ministry of Education’s program “Podróże z klasą” is set to benefit over 8,000 students from the Wielkopolska region. This exciting program, which translates to “Travels with Class,” aims to provide students with valuable learning experiences through fully funded school trips. The overwhelming demand for the program prompted the Ministry to increase the funding by an additional 20 million PLN, ensuring more students can embark on these educational journeys.
A Swift Success: Funding Allocation
“Podróże z klasą” quickly captured the interest of schools across Poland. The initial funding pool was depleted in a mere 12 minutes, highlighting the immense demand for such initiatives. Recognizing this, the Ministry of Education responded by increasing the budget to 80 million PLN. This substantial financial boost guarantees that more students can participate in the program, enjoying up to five-day trips that cover all expenses, including transportation, accommodation, meals, and entry fees to various educational sites.
Comprehensive Coverage
The program covers visits to museums, art galleries, theatres, operas, philharmonic halls, science centres, open-air museums, and other cultural institutions. This ensures that students receive a well-rounded educational experience, combining academic knowledge with cultural enrichment. The funding covers a range of trip durations: up to 20,000 PLN for two-day trips, 30,000 PLN for three-day trips, 40,000 PLN for four-day trips, and 50,000 PLN for five-day trips.
Impact on Wielkopolska
Wielkopolska stands out as one of the top beneficiaries of this initiative, with over 8,000 students from the region set to participate. This places Wielkopolska third in the national ranking, following Mazowieckie and Śląskie. Schools such as Liceum Ogólnokształcące im. gen. Józefa Wybickiego in Śrem, Szkoła Podstawowa im. Walczących o Niepodległość in Kleszczewo, and Szkoła Podstawowa im. Powstańców Wielkopolskich in Tulce are among the many institutions that will benefit from the program.
Encouraging Inclusivity
“Podróże z klasą” aims to combat financial exclusion by ensuring that all students, regardless of their economic background, have the opportunity to participate in these enriching experiences. By funding 100% of the trip costs, the program removes financial barriers, allowing every student to benefit from these educational opportunities.
Future Prospects
The success of “Podróże z klasą” has paved the way for its continuation. The Ministry has announced plans to extend the program into the spring of the following year, with a focus on providing opportunities for schools that were unable to secure funding in the current round. This commitment ensures that the benefits of the program will reach even more students in the future.
Top Recommendations for School Trips
To help schools plan their trips, here are some recommended destinations:
- Zamek Grodno: Located in Zagórze Śląskie in the Sudety Mountains, Zamek Grodno is a medieval castle offering panoramic views over the Lubachów Lake. It features historical reenactments, guided tours, and outdoor activities in a stunning natural setting.
- Alpaka Konradów: In Konradów, Lower Silesia, Alpaka Konradów provides an opportunity to interact with friendly alpacas and other farm animals. Visitors can enjoy guided alpaca walks and learn about animal care and farm life in a picturesque environment.
- Sanatorium Dziecięce in Kudowa-Zdrój: Situated in the charming town of Kudowa-Zdrój, this children’s sanatorium offers excellent facilities including indoor pools, sports courts, and outdoor recreational areas. It is perfect for health and wellness activities designed for young visitors.
- Energylandia: Located in Zator, Energylandia is Poland’s largest amusement park, offering a variety of attractions for all ages. From thrilling roller coasters to interactive shows and educational exhibits, it guarantees a day filled with fun and learning.
- Manufaktura Ceramiki w Bolesławcu: In Bolesławiec, this ceramic workshop allows visitors to explore the process of creating the region’s famous pottery. Participants can join hands-on workshops to craft their own pieces and learn about the rich tradition of ceramic art.
Embracing the Future of Education
“Podróże z klasą” represents a significant step forward in enhancing the educational landscape of Poland. By offering students the chance to learn outside the traditional classroom setting, the program fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Poland’s cultural and scientific heritage. As the program expands, it promises to bring these invaluable experiences to even more students, laying the foundation for a well-rounded, inclusive education system.