Poland prepares for major preschool and secondary school curriculum reforms

Poland is preparing for significant educational reforms affecting both preschool and secondary education. A new preschool curriculum set for 2026 aims to shift away from rigid, desk-based learning toward practical experience, agency, and physical movement. The new framework replaces four development areas with nine detailed spheres, emphasizing natural movement to support cognitive development and early posture correction.

In secondary education, the “Kompas Jutra” reform is scheduled to begin in September 2027. Proposals from the Educational Research Institute suggest a “base year” for all high school and vocational students to equalize knowledge following primary school. This model would delay the selection of specialized profiles and elective subjects by one year. While some experts support the leveling of knowledge, others warn against early specialization and advocate for maintaining or increasing hours in core subjects like mathematics to combat mathematical illiteracy.