Secondary Level

Secondary School at the British International School of Cracow

Secondary School at the British International School of Cracow

The Secondary School at the British International School of Cracow offers a supportive and inspiring learning environment that combines academic excellence with personal development. Our approach is rooted in the British educational tradition, which places strong emphasis on active learning, hands-on activities, discussion, and inquiry-based teaching. Students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and apply knowledge in real-life contexts, supported by clear learning objectives, regular assessment, and constructive feedback.

We offer a balanced education that prepares students for academic success and life beyond school. A broad and well-rounded programme that includes sport, music, and drama alongside academic study helps students develop confidence, resilience, and a wide range of skills. At the same time, we maintain a warm, open, and friendly atmosphere in which students feel valued, supported, and motivated to achieve their full potential.

Our Secondary programme provides the right academic and pastoral environment for students to gain entry to their first-choice universities in Poland and abroad. We work in close partnership with parents through clear and effective communication, recognising the importance of family involvement in supporting students’ success in IGCSE and the IB Diploma Programme. Throughout Secondary, we actively promote awareness, understanding, and respect for different perspectives, cultures, and ideas, preparing students to thrive in an international and multicultural world.

An education for life

The British International School of Cracow (BISC Kraków) is truly a unique educational establishment. We are a co-educational, non-selective, independent school providing a full range of education for pupils aged 5 to 19. BISC is registered with the Polish Ministry of Education and ensures that pupils study a broad curriculum with a global outlook. Our mission is to inspire our pupils to become independent and lifelong learners through the development of their human intellects, talents, and creativity. We ensure our mission statement is achieved through our commitment to the following aims:
  • Maintaining an open and friendly atmosphere.
  • Educating the whole person to prepare the pupils for later life responsibilities.
  • Helping our pupils achieve their full potential through sport, music, and drama.
  • Maintaining the right environment for our pupils to gain entry to their first choice of university.
  • Involving parents as partners through effective lines of communication.
  • Encouraging family involvement to help our pupils gain excellent IGCSE and IB exam results.
  • Promoting awareness, understanding, and respect for other people’s perspectives.
Teenagers focused on learning in a modern classroom environment.

BISC is fully accredited as a member of the Council of Overseas British International Schools (COBIS), the European Council of International Schools (ECIS), and the World School offering the Cambridge Programme. Students at BISC have the option to sit for both AQA and Cambridge International Examinations at the IGCSE level. We have over 30 years of experience in international education.

A supportive environment

Our philosophy is about encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning. We encourage critical thinking and active interaction in the classroom. To do so we offer a safe and nurturing environment. 

Leadership of teaching & learning
We are creative and solution focused. We aim to continuously improve the quality of teaching, behaviour and safety. Our teachers focus on what happens in the classroom and have a strategic vision. Lesson objectives are given at the beginning of each lesson. Teachers supply feedback to move learners forward. Self-assessment and participation in their learning process challenges pupils every day. Teachers use lesson observations, self-evaluation and performance management to meet the school’s educational targets. Our teachers are dedicated and take part in on-going professional development.
Contact with parents
As a small school we encourage close ties between teachers and parents. In addition to our regularly scheduled parent-teacher meetings, we welcome additional meetings with parents to discuss their child’s learning. Our Advisory Board, comprised of teachers, parents and school owners, is regularly consulted about school issues and suggestions are taken on board to ensure our school’s continual progresses. Our School Development Plan is published by the Head of School after consultation with the Advisory Board and Management Team. The plan informs parents and teachers of the educational direction of the school and establishes priorities for all members of our school community to work towards.
Outcomes
Our curriculum and school-wide goals ensure that students are able to realise the following outcomes: Independent learners, Risk takers, Confident individuals, Enthusiastic and Internationally minded
Additional Learning Needs (ALN)
At BISC Kraków, students with additional or special educational needs are supported through a comprehensive and individualised support system. A full-time ALN Coordinator works closely with students, teachers, and families to ensure that every pupil receives guidance tailored to their individual strengths, needs, and learning goals. The Coordinator is based on site and is available throughout the school day. Support is built on regular classroom observations, in-class support, and close collaboration with teachers to ensure that appropriate strategies are effectively implemented during lessons. Individual learning plans and targeted interventions are developed where needed, with continuous monitoring of students’ progress. We use a range of specialist tools and evidence-based programmes, including NESSY, to support the development of literacy, spelling, reading fluency, and phonological awareness. These tools help students build confidence, strengthen key learning skills, and access the curriculum more effectively. Students also benefit from access to a wider network of specialist support, including a school psychologist, pedagogical support staff, and other specialists. Close and ongoing cooperation with families is a key element of our approach, ensuring consistency between school and home and enabling students to receive well-rounded academic and emotional support. Through this inclusive and collaborative model, BISC Kraków creates a learning environment in which all students feel supported, understood, and empowered to reach their full potential.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
As an international school, we welcome children from all over the globe and as such, students who may be new to English. EAL programmes focus on communicative competency as the foremost priority. This includes the language needed to make strong social bonds and to excel in academia. Our teaching takes a natural approach, drawing on leading linguistic theory on the acquisition of additional languages in childhood. At all times, EAL intervention programmes are fun and supportive places to learn, thrive and gain confidence in English.

Ensuring success

We follow the Cambridge International curriculum. As such, we invite students across the age range to take Cambridge Assessments and reflect on their annual progress. Our older students follow the International Baccalaureate Diploma.

Our students obtain excellent results at IGCSE as well as IB and go to top universities in the UK and abroad, including Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, LSE, St Andrews, Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Edinburgh, New York State, Jagiellonian and Heriot-Watt.

Key Stage 3

Students take all subjects in English, as is standard in UK and International Systems. Every year, students sit International Exams which provide interesting insights into their progress.

Year 7

11-12

Year 8

12-13

Year 9

13-14

Key Stage 4

At the end of Year 11, students sit external GCSE and IGCSE examinations, as is the norm in UK schools.

Year 10

14-15

Year 11

15-16

IB Diploma Programme

The IB is internationally recognised and allows students to progress to top universities around the globe.

IB 1

16-17

IB 2

17-18

Cross-curricular components

The Local Community

Our school is actively involved in the local community through a range of charitable initiatives organised throughout the year. These activities form an important part of school life and reflect our commitment to social responsibility and community engagement.

Our senior students, particularly those following the International Baccalaureate programme, take a leading role in planning and delivering charitable events and outreach activities as part of their Community, Action and Service (CAS) requirements. These initiatives include charity concerts, participation in the Szlachetna Paczka campaign, as well as bake sales and fundraising events supporting various local causes and organisations.

Through these experiences, students develop empathy, leadership, and organisational skills, while learning the value of contributing positively to the local community and making a meaningful difference beyond the school environment.

Group of people silhouetted against a vibrant sunset, showcasing unity and joy.

Student Council

The Student Council is a dynamic and representative body made up of students elected by their peers to voice the ideas, needs, and perspectives of the entire school community. Working collaboratively with teachers and school leadership, the Council plays an active role in shaping everyday school life and contributing to a positive, inclusive school culture.

Student Council members are involved in planning and organising school events, assemblies, themed days, and social initiatives that strengthen community spirit and student engagement. They actively gather feedback from classmates, propose new ideas, and participate in discussions on matters such as student well-being, school facilities, learning environment, and extracurricular activities. The Council also supports charitable initiatives and community projects, often working alongside IB students and school staff.

Through regular meetings, project work, and leadership responsibilities, students develop essential skills including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership. Participation in the Student Council fosters confidence, accountability, and a sense of ownership over school life, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to their school community and preparing them for active participation in a global society.

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Model United Nations

The school has a very active involvement in Model United Nations, with students attending conferences across Europe. The preparation and participation in MUN conferences gives students an opportunity to develop public speaking and debating skills whilst giving them an understanding of global issues and the delicate art of diplomacy.

International Day

Throughout the year we celebrate culture and creativity: World Book Day, International Day, and themed events connect learning with the world around us. These celebrations allow students to share their traditions, explore global perspectives, and appreciate diversity within our school community. Classrooms come alive with music, art, and costumes that reflect cultures from around the world. Such experiences nurture open-mindedness, curiosity, and a sense of belonging among all our students.

A group of diverse individuals join hands for teamwork in West Java, Indonesia.

Performing Arts

Creativity and self-expression are at the heart of life at BISC Kraków. Our Performing Arts programme offers students numerous opportunities to develop and showcase their talents through workshops, concerts, exhibitions, and stage performances. Students take part in large-scale productions such as school musicals, including Tarzan, performed at the Varieté Theatre, as well as seasonal concerts, cultural parades, and art exhibitions presenting their visual work.

Alongside these major events, students participate in more intimate performances such as music salons, where they perform in a supportive and inspiring setting. Through involvement in drama, music, and the arts, students build confidence, refine their artistic skills, and experience the excitement of performing in front of an audience. These experiences foster creativity, teamwork, and self-belief, while creating lasting memories that remain an important part of their school journey.

IB results 2021-2025

Academic Counselling

From the early secondary years onwards, students receive structured guidance designed to help them make informed academic choices, discover their strengths, and plan confidently for their future.

Our academic counselling programme includes:

  • Subject selection guidance

    in KS3 and IGCSE to ensure students build strong academic foundations aligned with their interests and abilities.

  • IGCSE and IB Diploma planning

    including support with Higher Level (HL) and Standard Level (SL) choices.

  • University and career exploration

    helping students identify pathways that match their aspirations, strengths, and global opportunities.

  • Individual academic planning meetings

    with students and parents to review progress and set goals.

  • Professional guidance assessments

    including recognised career-interest and aptitude tests to help students better understand their strengths, preferences, and potential academic pathways

  • Collaboration with the school psychologist

    ensuring a deeper understanding of each student’s personality, learning profile, motivations, and wellbeing, so that academic decisions are aligned with both ability and personal development.

  • Support with university applications

    including guidance on personal statements, references, and application platforms (e.g. UCAS and international systems)

  • Preparation for admissions processes

    such as interviews, entrance exams, and portfolio development where required

  • Participation in university fairs and higher education events

    where students have the opportunity to meet admissions representatives from leading universities around the world. These events allow students to ask detailed questions about courses, campus life, entry requirements, and scholarship opportunities. They also help students broaden their horizons, compare international study destinations, and build confidence in speaking directly with university representatives

  • Study skills and time-management coaching

    particularly during examination years

  • Ongoing pastoral-academic collaboration

    ensuring each student receives holistic and personalised guidance

Through continuous guidance, professional assessment, and real-world exposure to universities, our aim is to empower every student to make thoughtful academic decisions, develop independence, and confidently transition from secondary education to leading universities worldwide.

Strong foundations

Focused teenager solving a math equation on a blackboard in a classroom setting.

The Secondary School at BISC Kraków culminates with students taking IGCSE examinations in a wide range of subjects, in line with the British education system. Our curriculum and IGCSE programmes of study provide a strong academic foundation, preparing students for further education and advanced study.

Transition into the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme at BISC Kraków is a natural and well-supported step. Students benefit from continuity in teaching, familiar expectations, and an established learning environment, allowing them to focus on academic growth, personal development, and confident preparation for the final stage of their school education.

We are proud of the family atmosphere in our school, and our Secondary students take pride in being role models for younger pupils. We also offer a wide range of opportunities for older students to develop leadership and initiative through the Student Council, as well as through participation in school events, concerts, and community initiatives throughout the year.

With a strong set of IGCSE results and the International Baccalaureate Diploma, our students progress to leading universities around the world. We are committed to supporting every student in achieving the results they need to gain entry to their first-choice institution.

Want to know more?

See what a day in the life of our Secondary students looks like

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