Nearly 3000 foreigners can now speak Polish thanks to Accent School of Polish!
Join them and choose Accent, because here you will:
- find true Polish hospitality – 98% of our students appreciate the atmosphere we create together*
- meet teachers who will surprise you – we have a team of 21 exceptional teachers
- taste the specialties of Polish cuisine at our cooking workshops – additional workshops at least twice a month
- learn in small groups, which will help you achieve your goals and start speaking Polish – groups of 3 to 9 people!
- become friends with people from all over the world – our students have come from over 30 different countries
* results of surveys conducted between 2010 and 2015
Our Teachers
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I am a teacher, a theaterologist and a speech therapist. I conducted courses for students of the Jagiellonian University, Institute of Nuclear Physics PAS, College of Management and Banking, for participants of the Socrates-Erasmus program. I have been cooperating with the Accent School of Polish since 2006. I publish teaching aids for students and methodological materials for teachers. I love to learn, and students are the most important for me at work. From 2019, I work at the Dean's Office of the Faculty of International and Political Studies at the Jagiellonian University In my free time I cook, ride a bike, do handcraft, read, meet with friends. I love the sun and the sea. I take part in the philosophical and theological study classes, I'm also interested in psychology.Joanna Główczyńska -
I love kids, play, and theatre, so if I hadn’t become a teacher of Polish, I would certainly be working as an actress in a children’s theatre! Interestingly, being a teacher also gives me opportunities to prove myself as an actress! Polish classes are fun and games during which we are all a bit like actors, and a bit like kids: like kids we learn something new during every lesson, and like them, we try to have as much fun with it as possible. I can’t even dream up a job in a more interesting profession!Barbara Sosnowska – Babik -
I studied oriental languages at the Jagiellonian University in Kraków, but even though I’m fluent in a few of the more exotic languages, what I love most is teaching my mother tongue -- it’s when I truly feel in my element. Coming up with exercises and games, looking up interesting idioms and word histories: time stops when I’m busy with these things! Apart from work, I love biking, nature walks, gardening, cooking, and reading (or rather, devouring) books. When I really have a lot of time, I do sewing and knitting, and I make soutache jewelry.Dorota Czopyk -
I'm a graduate of the Jagiellonian University, and that's where my adventure with teaching Polish began. Even though my original life plan was different, I now combine my two passions: teaching Polish as a foreign language and speech therapy (I work with kids with speech disorders). Of course, all work and no play would be dull. I do love spending my free time actively: traveling, visiting new countries, reading books, but also cheering and supporting our handball and volleyball teams.Alicja Asadouska (Babula) -
My adventure with teaching Polish as a foreign language began when friends asked me to help them learn some basic expressions so that they could manage at stores, cafes, etc. Having graduated with a degree in Polish from the Pedagogical University of Cracow, I started to enjoy looking at my language “from the other side” – and now I'm about to finish a specialized postgraduate course at the Jagiellonian University in teaching Polish as a second and as a foreign language. I've gained teaching experience at the University's Polish Language Summer School, as well as with Erasmus students and participants of other educational programs, such as “Teraz Polski”. My enjoyment of being with people and working with them to ensure their progress makes my lessons both interesting and fruitful. In my free time I love to eat well, and to ride my bike.Sylwia Różak-Szałankiewicz
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I’m a teacher because I simply enjoy teaching and I can’t see myself doing anything else. I teach people, and at the same time I learn people as well. Each class is like a microcosm and a macrocosm rolled into one, an opportunity to express oneself and to draw from the rich experience of others. The Polish language is for me a bit like religion, a bit like philosophy, but mainly, a platform for thought. My classes are for everyone and about everything, and I try to make sure “that a dexterous tongue can say everything that the head can think.” Of course, that requires a lot of work, so I also have to be a tyrant. But this is all for the students’ benefit, so the pain comes with a guarantee of communicative success. I draw inspiration from my work, and the daily get-togethers with the whole world motivate me to smile and marvel at its beauty. I combine teaching with singing and music making, so sometimes after class my students get a chance hear a different version of me and my voice. We work well together
Agnieszka Banaś -
It was never my plan to become a teacher; teaching was supposed to be just a temporary job. The result? I’ve been teaching for a few years now and I can’t imagine a more interesting and challenging job. Contact with people from different countries and cultures, getting to know each other, jokes, sharing stories – that’s what Polish courses are all about. Lessons are conversations with interesting people from whom I learn myself all the time (my students taught me to like Kraków!) When I’m not working, I’m reading (mainly reportage and comic books), or attempting to hike in the mountains and do yoga (with various results), or else I’m cooking (with pretty good results). I’m not much of a traveller, but I don’t have to be: the whole world comes here, to Kraków!Anna Kuczyńska -
I am a graduate of the University of Gdansk. How did I end up in Krakow? Completely unexpectedly! I came here to pursue my passions. I like music, theater, I am interested in the history of Polish language. I am fascinated by meetings with students from whom I can learn a lot, too. I hope we will meet soon, not only during Polish lessons, but also in theatre!Weronika Psiuk-Czerepak -
I am an educator with years of experience, a speech therapist and a Polish language teacher. I am happy to be able to share my knowledge and Polishness with people who visit our country, and even stay here for longer. I leave them a part of myself and I am grateful when they let me in on their own world. I focus on friendly atmosphere and effective teaching.Małgorzata Stankiewicz- Laskowska -
Cultural diversity and communication psychology have always been fascinating to me and that is why I really love working in a multicultural environment, sharing knowledge and encountering a variety of opinions. I studied Polish for foreigners in Kraków as well as international relations in Germany, England and Poland. I’m also a Neuro-Linguistic Practitioner interested in a holistic way of teaching, paying attention to brain-body-language connection, including rhythms of breathing and diet. Every lesson is an adventurous journey - sometimes difficult - but always full of funny moments and useful information you will surely remember, hopefully forever :)Magdalena Mrówczyńska
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I have always loved two things: the Polish language and reportages from both distant and close countries. Teaching Polish as a foreign language lets me pay a visit to the Far East, Latin America and our European neighbors all in one day, and without having to leave Kraków. In my lessons, I try to encourage students to speak Polish from the first minute, together with students we learn to overcome obstacles together, which mostly means problems with correct pronunciation. This is why in every lesson I spend some time on the rules of Polish phonetics and articulation exercises. Naturally, the best articulation exercise is laughter. I can’t imagine work without great atmosphere! Although I am convinced that every skill is equally important, I have to admit it is teaching correct pronunciation that gives me the most satisfaction. At present, I am finishing the Teaching Polish as a Foreign Language course at the Jagiellonian University. In my free time, I like to read, watch TV series, meet friends, swim, and of course, spend time with my wonderful husband :-)Paulina Kuzawińska -
I have always wondered how it is possible to explain Polish grammar and help with Polish pronunciation. As a teacher of English and a colleague of other teachers, both in Poland and abroad, I had to try and deal with it a lot. As it turns out, not only is it possible but there are also great and relatively simple ways to do it, including comparing Polish structures to those in other languages. Four years ago, I finished post-graduate studies in Teaching Polish as a Foreign Language and found out how! It’s a satisfying feeling. Besides teaching Polish, I continue to teach English, translate books on philosophy and other academic subjects, as well as teach and perform various forms of dance. I read a lot, especially in public transport, so don’t get offended if I don’t acknowledge you. Hope to see you in my class!Katarzyna Cullen -
For several years I have been helping students learn about the world of Polish language and culture. My history with teaching foreigners and with Accent began while I was studying teaching Polish as a foreign language at the Pedagogical University in Krakow. A little earlier, I started teaching Russian to Poles, which I gladly continue now. As a graduate of Slavic philology, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to compare different languages (especially Slavic) in my work. I try to apply the acquired knowledge when preparing classes and workshops for our students. In this case, I also benefit from the knowledge of Russian and Ukrainian, which I took from my family. Currently, I am also focusing on learning other languages - English, German and Spanish. I think that the more I learn about the language and culture of my students, the easier it will be for them to learn my languages. Outside of work, I really like to invite guests, listen to old music and as I am a humanist - read everything that I can lay my hands on. What don't I like? Complaining that the Polish language is difficult.Ilona Sesko -
My adventure with the Polish language began 20 years ago, when I came to Poland and sat down with the first textbook. First for practical reasons (since I decided to live in this country, I should learn the language), but with time learning became a more and more addictive pleasure. Finally, I passed the C2 level exam, completed post-graduate studies in Polish language and culture teaching at the University of Silesia and began to teach the beautiful Polish language to foreigners, mainly my compatriots, Ukrainians. Since then I learned that work can be fun and a source of great satisfaction. I treat language teaching as a fun activity, which is why I use songs and children's poems in class, and when the language skills of the students also allow for it, poetry. I introduce elements of knowledge about Polish culture, e.g., about Krakow, or well-known Polish artists: writers, painters, or directors. Language is not only grammar (which does not have to be boring), it is primarily the people, the culture and the world.Halina Czuba -
Being a child I already knew that I would teach Polish for sure when I grow up. First I have graduated from Polish Filology deapartment at Jagelloninan University here in Cracow. Later I had further studies in Italy where the idea to teach foreigners Polish language came up to my mind. As a volunteer I ran Polish classes for foreigners at the University in Rome. After returning to Poland, I continued studying at the Jagiellonian University in the specialty: teaching Polish as a foreign language and second language. The experience with foreigners led me towards speech therapy, so after graduating from the university I also started working, among others with bilingual children, in whom I mainly focus on the so-called language programming. My experience in working as a therapist helps me in the work of a teacher, because the techniques used in therapy with children are great at teaching Polish with foreigners.Aleksandra Parker
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It’s me, your Polish teacher. If we meet at the Accent School of Polish, we’ll probably stay together for longer. Everyone who starts learning a foreign language starts a long and amazing journey. You will discover language, culture and yourself while traveling with me. And I’ll get to know some of your language, your culture and some … of you. I teach Polish for several years, but I also teach how to teach all the time. I deal with didactics, intercultural education, writing textbooks and carrying out multicultural projects. If you are interested more, google it yourself! And be sure to check out http: //fundacjareja.eu/Urszula Majcher-Legawiec -
I teach for about 10 years and I’m still happy with that. I am always full of new ideas, but experience also allows me to “good routine“, after so many years I already know what works and what doesn’t. What I really like in this work is the diversity that comes primarily from the people I meet in it, that is, from students. I respect all of them very much for trying to learn our difficult language. I always try to make their complicated learning more pleasant, to show that “ The devil is not so black as he is painted “. I really like learning foreign languages, comparing words and idioms. Languages are simply my passion.Aleksandra Wojaczek -
When I was a child i was dreaming to teach! However, I didn’t think, that this dream may come true. I started studying logopedics at the Pedagogical University, I chose to specialize in teaching Polish as a foreign language and fell in love with it! Teaching Polish is an amazing journey - discovering the world and cultures together! Of course, as it is like with traveling, it is not always easy, but positive energy, commitment and a common goal are the key to success. :) Apart from teaching, I like to create interactive materials for learning Polish. I was involved in the editing of the updated Hurra series and the books " Połącz kropki " and " Postaw Kropkę ". I am interested in aviation on a daily basis, but you can also meet me on the bike trail! :)Kinga Łoś -
In a way, I have been involved in teaching since 2018, when I volunteered in the Учим польский язык group on the vkontakte website, at the same time enriching my knowledge of Russian and Ukrainian. In 2019, I completed postgraduate studies in Polish Language Teaching, and since March this year I am working at the Accent School of Polish. If we say that learning a foreign language and teaching others is opening a window to the world, I can say that working in the this industry can be a fantastic adventure, passion and a lifestyle.Olga Skupień -
Out of curiosity. That’s why I’ve started learning new languages. When you’re curious, you ask questions and that’s what I encourage my students to do. We’re discovering Polish language together which is quite a journey :) I’m a big fan of international exchanges. I’ve participated in all Erasmus programms that were available for me at the time :) I’ve worked in an international environment since I can remember. For me, the more diverse it is, the better as we can learn so much from each other! I speak fluent English, Spanish and some Italian (I hope this list will get bigger in some time). Travelling, biking and hiking in the mountains are my biggest energizers. I enjoy staying active and trying new things. Again, out of curiosity :)Dominika Bieszczad
At Accent School of Polish we have two goals:
1. TO TEACH EFFECTIVELY!!
- At the beginning of every course we give you a test (written and oral). The speaking part lets us analyze your needs – that’s when our future students answer several important questions: Why do you want to learn Polish? Which skills are most important to you? What are your expectations? etc.
Those who are beginners with no knowledge of Polish don’t need to write the test, but we still talk with them about their needs connected with the course and their stay in Kraków. - We teach in very small groups – 3 to 9 people!!! This enables us to adjust the course to the individual needs of EVERY student.
- The student needs analyses allow us to prepare specific syllabuses for groups at different levels of advancement. Every syllabus aims to include all the language skills, but it is the students’ needs that are the most important. We do focus of SPEAKING – as most students do want to first of all SPEAK Polish. Yet effective communication in Polish requires some knowledge of grammar. And so we artfully combine the teaching of the four language skills (speaking, writing, reading, listening) with teaching the elements of language (grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling).
- We continually monitor the didactic process: we do surveys to check student satisfaction during the course and tests to verify their progress; we also do classroom observations. There is a final test at the end of each course, and this, together with the grades from the entire semester, is the basis of the final progress report, which provides descriptive feedback on each of the language skills. The teacher also includes suggestions for further study.
2. TO TEACH IN AN ENGAGING WAY!
- We make sure that class time is used to the fullest. Thanks to the small size of the groups, every student gets a chance to be active in the classroom. We expect our students to be fully invloved, and we find a way to motivate them to also do some homework.
- We use Polish ONLY for speaking, even at begginer level. This puts students in real communicative situations and enables them to develop all the language skills.
- Authentic materials often find their way to our classrooms: we use newspapers and watch Polish films and tv shows. With us, you touch the vibrant Polish language, and the classroom transforms into a shop, a restaurant, a cinema, a doctor’s office, or even a street.
- The course is always enriched with an array of cultural events – during the evening get-togethers you can learn how to properly participate in a Polish wedding, find out how to make the famous ‘pierogi’, and discover Kraków itself.
- Our course syllabuses are based on the generally accepted framework of language levels (table – link). We use the best available coursebooks!
LANGUAGE LEVELS
(According to the Common European Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment CEF*)
survival
This level has not been recognised by CEF. It is used with reference to the least advanced users participating in very short courses. The course syllabus concentrates on simple everyday tasks. At this level the user familiarises himself/herself only with the basic pronunciation rules and simple phrases aimed at the satisfaction of everyday needs. The user knows about 300 – 500 words.
* Based on: E. Lipinska, A. Seretny, “Przewodnik po egzaminach certyfikatowych
Basic user: breakthrough
At this level the user can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. Can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.
* Based on: E. Lipinska, A. Seretny, “Przewodnik po egzaminach certyfikatowych
Basic user: waystage
At this level the user can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance. Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.
* Based on: E. Lipinska, A. Seretny, “Przewodnik po egzaminach certyfikatowych
Independent user: threshold
At this level the user can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. Can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. Can produce simple connected text on topics which are familiar or of personal interest.
* Based on: E. Lipinska, A. Seretny, “Przewodnik po egzaminach certyfikatowych
Independent user: vantage
At this level the user can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics. Can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. Can produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue.
* Based on: E. Lipinska, A. Seretny, “Przewodnik po egzaminach certyfikatowych
Proficient user: effective operational proficiency
At this level the user can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognise implicit meaning. Can express him/herself fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. Can produce clear, well-structured, detailed text on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organisational patterns, connectors and cohesive devices.
* Based on: E. Lipinska, A. Seretny, “Przewodnik po egzaminach certyfikatowych
Proficient user: mastery
At this level the user can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. Can express him/herself spontaneously, very fluently and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.
* Based on: E. Lipinska, A. Seretny, “Przewodnik po egzaminach certyfikatowych
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What I love most about my job is the great atmosphere and the chance to meet people from different parts of the world, different backgrounds, and different cultures. Each day here brings new challenges and inspirations, making it a unique experience. Doing the work entrusted to me gives me a lot of joy and satisfaction.I'm happy to work with the team of such devoted people who help foreigners to stay in Poland in comfortable environment. I like working while there is a lot going on and I can meet many people from different countries. I hope to learn new things from my colleagues and also share my previous experience with them.I am glad to work among talented, proactive and enthusiastic people. Accent is a school of professionals and individual approach to everyone. Being a student of Polish myself I am eager to share with you all the secrets and life hacks of adaptation and learning Polish. Our team will answer all your questions and help to find the best Polish course for you :)As a person who likes changes and challenges, working at Accent School of Polish is definitely rewarding to me. Every day here is different, but each one is full of new ideas, inspirations and interesting meetings!
