What do offer?
We are now enrolling for the 2023/2024 school year for zero grade - enrollment is ongoing!
In our curriculum, we offer a wide and diverse range of activities:
-
English Language Learning: 2000 hours of English annually with native speaker level teachers, including circle time activities, working with top-class British McMillan textbooks, phonetics and diction lessons, English theatrical arts, trips, events, and much more.
-
Educational lessons are conducted in Polish.
-
Spanish Lessons - 760 hours: twice a week Spanish lessons & Exposure to a Spanish native teacher during Freeplay & other activities.
-
Rhythmics - music lessons in English.
-
Gymnastics for physical development.
-
Chemical experiments.
-
Dog therapy.
-
Puppet theater visits.
-
STEAM lessons
-
Speech therapy diagnosis.
-
Storytelling therapy - activities focused on class unity and emotional development.
Additional activities:
-
Taekwondo - 4 times a month, additional cost: 90 zł.
-
Dance - 4 times a month. Only semester-long enrolments, additional cost: 230 zł.
-
Robotics - 4 times a month, older group 90-minute lessons (5-6 years) 135 zł, and younger group 45-minute lessons (3-4 years), additional cost: 90 zł.
-
Sensory Art (Sensoplastyka) - 4 times a month, additional cost 80 zł.
-
Chess - 4 times a month, additional cost: 80 zł.
-
Corrective physiotherapy- 160 zl per semester.
-
DIY (Do It Yourself) workshops - once per month, 440 zl per year.
-
Individual speech therapy sessions
*Enrollment based on declarations made at the preschool.
**We also offer frequent workshops and numerous trips: Opera, various museums, theater, and more, with more information available on our Facebook page. We are not afraid to travel and explore the beautiful city of Krakow. The average budget is 50 PLN per month.
Accent Acquisition
Elocution lessons play a vital role in developing clear and correct pronunciation of diphthongs and vowels, which are fundamental to mastering the subtleties of the English language. At Big Ben, we recognize the importance of these skills and therefore offer elocution lessons to all our classes, including our special Saturday Club. It's widely acknowledged that after childhood, it becomes significantly more challenging for most individuals to acquire a native-like accent in a new language. This is why we emphasize the importance of early elocution training.
In our daily English Elocution lessons, we ensure that children not only learn how to pronounce words accurately but also gain an understanding of the rhythms and intonations that characterize fluent English speech. Our approach is far from dry or academic; instead, we employ a fun and nurturing methodology that engages children deeply. We incorporate elements of musical theory, which helps in understanding the melodic aspects of language, alongside playful activities, storytelling, and more. This multifaceted approach not only makes the learning process enjoyable but also highly effective.
By integrating these elocution lessons into our curriculum, we aim to provide our students with a strong foundation in Engliash pronunciation. This early proficiency can greatly benefit them in their future academic and professional endeavors, especially in today's globally interconnected world. Our goal is to equip our students with the confidence and skills to communicate clearly and effectively, setting them on the path to becoming articulate and confident English speakers.
How are lessons delivered?
At our preschool, we embrace a unique blend of educational methodologies that create an immersive and engaging learning environment for young children. We draw inspiration from the Montessori Method, integrating day-to-day routine actions into the learning process. This approach resonates with children's natural curiosity, allowing them to explore and learn in a self-directed, hands-on manner. Recognizing and naming these routine activities is not just about learning new words; it's about developing essential communication skills.
Our educational philosophy also incorporates elements of the Reggio Emilia Approach, emphasizing the power of hands-on experiences and the environment as a crucial part of learning. We teach through signs, common games, and interactive activities, in line with Play-Based Learning principles. This method not only makes learning fun but also reinforces language development in a natural and engaging way. For example, children learn new words and concepts while playing games that require communication and collaboration, expanding their vocabulary in a context that makes sense to them.
Venturing outdoors is an integral part of our curriculum, aligning with the Nature-Based Education approach. Walks, field trips, and time spent on the playground are not just for physical exercise; they are opportunities to introduce children to the natural world, fostering a sense of wonder and expanding their vocabulary. Every outdoor experience, whether it’s spotting a bird in the sky or feeling the texture of different leaves, is a chance to learn new words and ideas.
Incorporating aspects of Experiential Learning, our approach is about making learning a seamless part of everyday life. By engaging with the world around them, children develop communication skills, learn new words, and understand their environment. This immersive method, enriched with the principles of Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL), sets the foundation for lifelong learning. At our preschool, children are not just learning; they are experiencing the joy of discovery through a rich tapestry of educational practices.
STEM in Early Years
Exciting Learning Journey: Math, Coding, and Chemistry
Our school's curriculum is a blend of innovation and fun, focusing on mathematics, coding, and chemistry. We adopt unique teaching methods to make these subjects engaging and accessible for our students.
Coding through Algorithmic Learning: Coding is integrated into math lessons using algorithmic learning. This method simplifies coding into logical steps, similar to math problems, allowing students to understand and create basic algorithms. It's a fun and effective way to introduce them to the world of technology.
Research shows that young children can learn programming as a part of robotic classes and engineering at a very early age. This is possible when children are given developmentally appropriate tools, that encourage open-ended play, and that allow the integration of technical skills with expressive arts, math, and literacy explorations.
Interactive Chemistry Experiments: Chemistry comes alive with hands-on experiments. A student favorite is the 'volcano experiment,' where vinegar and baking soda demonstrate a thrilling chemical reaction. This not only teaches chemistry basics but also inspires a love for science.
By combining these dynamic methods, we make learning an exciting adventure, nurturing our students' curiosity and passion for knowledge..
How do we approach discipline?
We believe in the power of positive discipline. Our approach is centered around nurturing and guiding our children, rather than punishing them. We understand that every child is unique, and our goal is to help them develop self-control, responsibility, and problem-solving skills in a supportive environment.
Explanations Over Demands: Instead of demanding specific behaviors, we focus on explaining the reasons behind our guidelines. We believe that when children understand the 'why' behind a rule, they are more likely to follow it. This approach fosters a sense of respect and cooperation, rather than compliance out of fear.
Consequences Instead of Punishment: We use natural and logical consequences to teach responsibility. Our method involves explaining the outcomes of certain actions in a way that children can understand. This helps them see the impact of their actions and encourages them to make thoughtful choices.
Communication and Understanding: Shouting and punitive measures like 'naughty chairs' are not part of our philosophy. We emphasize calm, respectful communication. When a child is struggling with a rule, we take the time to understand their perspective and work with them to find solutions.
Positive Reinforcement: We celebrate positive behaviors. Recognizing and praising good choices reinforces a child’s desire to repeat those actions. This positive reinforcement builds their confidence and encourages continual growth.
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence: We teach children to understand and express their emotions healthily. By recognizing and validating their feelings, we help them develop empathy and emotional intelligence.
Our Commitment
At our center, we are committed to creating a safe, nurturing environment where children feel respected and valued. Our approach to discipline is designed to build trust and understanding, creating a foundation for lifelong learning and personal growth. Join us in our journey to raise confident, responsible, and compassionate individuals.
Inter Classroom Relations
In our diverse and multicultural learning environment, supporting the emotional and social growth of our students is as crucial as their academic development. To achieve this, we've introduced two innovative approaches: psychologist-directed storytelling and dog therapy sessions.
Psychologist-guided storytelling helps children understand different cultures and perspectives, enhancing empathy and communication skills. These interactive sessions, led by a professional psychologist, enable students to engage with diverse characters and situations, fostering better understanding and classroom relationships.
Additionally, our dog therapy program offers unique benefits in developing empathy and emotional intelligence. Interacting with trained therapy dogs teaches children to recognize and respond to non-verbal cues and emotions, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of responsibility and respect for living beings.
Together, these approaches create a nurturing and inclusive environment, crucial for a multicultural setting, where students learn to empathize, understand, and connect with others. Join us in nurturing a generation that values empathy and diversity.
Multi-Cultural Awareness
Embracing Diversity: Preparing Children for a Multicultural World
In today's globalized society, understanding and appreciating cultural diversity is crucial. The modern workforce is a melting pot of various backgrounds and ethnicities, making it essential for children to be prepared for a diverse and interconnected world. At our preschool, we prioritize inclusivity and tolerance, ensuring that children from all cultural backgrounds feel valued and represented.
Our approach to fostering multicultural awareness starts with daily activities like storytime and playtime. It's important for children to see themselves reflected in the stories they hear and the games they play. When children encounter characters who look like them or learn about different cultures, they develop a sense of belonging and learn the value of diversity. Exclusivity in representation can lead to feelings of isolation; therefore, we strive to include stories and play activities that represent a wide range of cultures.
Celebrating global festivals such as Chinese New Year, Ramadan, and Diwali is another way we introduce our students to the richness of various cultures. These celebrations are more than just fun events; they are educational opportunities that allow children to learn about different traditions, foods, and customs in an inclusive and sensitive manner.
By integrating these practices into our curriculum, we aim to create an environment where all children, regardless of their background, feel included and respected. This early exposure to multiculturalism not only enriches their preschool experience but also lays the groundwork for them to become empathetic and globally aware individuals.
To Summarize, why us?
Real English
At Big Ben, we strive to be the very best. We are the only preschool in Krakow founded by a native British English teacher that offers daily consistent English lessons with qualified, experienced, and verified native-speaker teachers.
Not Just a Language
Being bilingual has more benefits than just speaking another language. Multiple academic research papers suggest being bilingual from a young age increases a child's lifelong cognitive abilities, concentration on simultaneous tasks, tendency to be more creative, and much more.
Meeting British & Polish Standards
At Big Ben we implement elements from both the British and Polish national curriculums. Most importantly we strive to meet the standards of both nations. Meeting the stringent requirements of both is a challenge that we readily accept. By utilizing both sets of standards and curriculums we are able to provide a robust, safe educational upbringing for our students.
British Standards: OFSTED
British National Curriculum: Early Years Foundation Stage
Polish Curriculum:
Polska podstawa programowa wychowania przedszkolnego;
Polski Program Nauczania na rok szkolny 2021/2022 - Odkryj Moc Przedszkolaka! Wyd. MACEdukacja
Preschool Statute avaliable in Polish: Przedszkole Statut
Nursery Statute available in Polish:
Al
