An evaluation of Polish supplementary schools in Ireland

Abstract

Since 2004, in response to the growth of the Polish community in Ireland, a number of Polish schools and organizations have been opened across the country. Some of them have become centres of cultural life and language transmission for the members of local Polish communities. This article provides an overview of Polish supplementary education in Ireland. Questionnaires were administered to teachers, parents and students of Polish supplementary schools in an effort to gain insight into the operation of Polish schools in Ireland. The findings highlight positive attitudes towards the Polish culture, willingness participate in the local community and an awareness of the significance of bilingualism for the younger generation. The paper also draws on the potential benefits of attending supplementary schools for children of migrant background.