What Will Change in Polish Schools From September 1? Key Information for Students and Parents

Polish schools are preparing for one of the country’s largest education changes in years, but the reform will not reach every student at once. The 2026/27 school year begins the rollout of “Reforma26. Compass of Tomorrow,” with the first phase focused mainly on primary-school grades one and four.

The revised curriculum aims to move away from memorizing large amounts of information and toward independence, practical use of knowledge and broader competencies. It will introduce educational experiments, project weeks and thematic modules designed to connect different subjects. The reform also gives teachers a stronger role in planning how learning is organized.

Nature classes will return for pupils in grades four through six, with three hours each week and at least two taught as a block. The approach is intended to give students an integrated view of the natural world before biology, chemistry, physics and geography become separate subjects in seventh grade. Civic education will gradually replace social studies, while practical and technical classes will replace technology in grades four through six.

Students are likely to notice the phone rules most immediately. From September 1, primary schools will enforce a statutory ban on mobile phones and other devices capable of communication or recording images and sound. The restriction will cover lessons, breaks and other school time, with phones kept at home or placed in a school deposit.

The reform will be introduced over several years. Secondary schools will begin adopting the new system from first grades in September 2027, meaning schools will operate under two systems during the transition.