Lower Secondary

Lower Secondary School

To provide holistic education that empowers students to achieve excellence

IPS Lower secondary covers grades 6 through 8 of the elementary school. It builds on the foundations of the Primary stage, developing strong academic and subject-based skills while encouraging critical thinking, independence, and a deeper understanding of the world.

At IPS we follow The Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum. It is the next stage of the Cambridge Pathway designed for students aged 11 to 14. It covers a wide range of subjects including English, Math, Science, Global Perspectives, ICT, Foreign Languages and Humanities. It focuses on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills while encouraging creativity and independence. Through active engagement, students deepen their understanding of core subjects and build a solid foundation for future academic success. The curriculum fosters a well-rounded education, preparing students for the transition to upper secondary and beyond.

At a Lower Secondary stage we continue to offer the Polish National Curriculum that builds on the core knowledge and skills acquired at the early stages and develops towards more advanced skills and knowledge about the students’ host country, its traditions and culture. Polish Language Arts, History of Poland and Geography of Poland continue to provide comprehensive knowledge on local matters, to equip students with a deep understanding of their cultural heritage and national identity.

Polish as a second Language programme extends towards high-level communications skills, reading and writing as well as more complex linguistic content. The program aims to support students and their families through regular communication within the local context, while also offering valuable insights into their host environment to foster a deeper understanding and integration.

National or international exams as precise and high-standard diagnostic tool

Towards the end of the elementary school level IPS students approach two important examinations within the educational programmes they follow. Cambridge Checkpoints is an international assessment designed for students at the end of the Lower Secondary stage. It evaluates students’ knowledge and skills in three key subjects – English, Mathematics and Science – and provides valuable feedback on the academic progress of individual students, learning cohorts and the whole grade level. The results offer a clear indication of readiness for the next stage of their education, areas of further study as well as their areas of excellence.

Egzamin Ósmoklasisty (8th-grade exam), is a national assessment taken by students at the conclusion of their primary education. It includes three main subjects: Polish Language, Mathematics, and a Foreign Language (usually English). The exam assesses students’ knowledge and skills acquired during their primary school years, focusing on reading comprehension, writing, problem-solving, and language proficiency. The results of this exam play a crucial role in determining students’ eligibility for admission to public secondary schools in Poland.