Education in the Mother Tongue

Supplementary Education – Keeping the Polish Language and Culture Alive in the UK

In Great Britain, learning Polish as a mother tongue, alongside subjects such as Polish history, geography and culture (taught either individually or together as “Polish Studies”), is known as supplementary education.

For families who may one day return to Poland – whether temporarily or permanently – it is vital that children have a strong command of the Polish language and a solid knowledge of their cultural roots. This not only makes reintegration into the Polish education system easier but also opens the door to opportunities for further study or work in Poland.

Of course, the first responsibility lies with parents. Speaking Polish at home, surrounding children with Polish books, magazines, films, music and radio – these everyday choices nurture both language and identity. The goal is not to place Polish culture above others, but to enrich a child’s life by giving them access to two cultural worlds – the one they live in every day and the one they belong to by heritage.

To support families in this effort, the Polish community in the UK has established Polish Saturday Schools. These schools are not a replacement for mainstream British education, nor do they mirror the Polish national curriculum. Instead, in just a few hours each week, they offer something unique:
✨ A stronger command of the Polish language
✨ An introduction to great works of Polish literature and key moments of history
✨ A sense of belonging and pride in cultural heritage
✨ Preparation for Polish GCSE and A-level exams, recognised within the British system

These schools also play an important role in shaping multicultural awareness – helping children value their Polish heritage while thriving in British society.

And the benefits are real. Students who take Polish as an exam subject at GCSE or A-level not only boost their overall results but also gain a valuable asset for university and future careers. For families who later return to Poland, this education smooths the transition into Polish schools, universities, and the job market.

Polish Saturday Schools are therefore much more than weekend classes – they are a bridge between cultures, a way to strengthen identity, and a gift that parents can give their children for life.