British International School of Cracow vs Da Vinci's International Primary School
British International School of Cracow and Da Vinci's International Primary School are both in Krakow, about 18 km apart. Both schools offer IB programmes, and British International School of Cracow also offers EYFS, British, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary) and Cambridge IGCSE. Published annual fees are PLN 40,000 - 62,500 at British International School of Cracow and PLN 3,500 - 42,000 at Da Vinci's International Primary School, which puts British International School of Cracow roughly 125% higher. Both take pupils from 3 to 18. Typical class sizes are 16 at British International School of Cracow and 19 at Da Vinci's International Primary School.
EYFS (Early years foundation stage), British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge (Secondary), Cambridge IGCSE, IB (DP)
Curriculum
IB (PYP), IB (MYP)
Pupils
Pupils
210
Pupils
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Typical class size
Typical class size
16
Typical class size
19
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
1995
Opened
—
Bus service
Bus service
No
Bus service
No
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Cracow (Kraków), Poland. Located in historic Cracow, the city is rich in history, culture, and innovation.
Location
The school is in Kraków, Poland, at ul. Pilotów 4C, 31-462 Kraków. The Kraków campus is located near the Mogilskie Roundabout. It has a large parking lot, three playgrounds, a sports field, and a spacious interior.
Stages
Stages
Foundation; Primary; Secondary; IB
Stages
Da Vinci's International Primary School is part of Da Vinci's International Schools in Kraków, alongside a Preschool and a High School. It provides primary-level education within the Kraków campus network.
School type
School type
International school offering an English-based curriculum from early years to the IB Diploma.
School type
International Primary School
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
More than 30 nationalities represented. It is a multicultural community.
Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
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Additional learning support
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Country affiliation
Country affiliation
British
Country affiliation
Poland
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
—
Religious affiliation
—
School day structure
School day structure
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School day structure
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Bus service details
Bus service details
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Bus service details
There is a school bus for primary and high school students.
Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Academic year covered: These figures are published for the 2025/2026 academic year (no 2026/2027 fee schedule was available at the time of checking).
Tuition fees (by year group) — published as monthly amounts payable from September to June (10 months) - Foundation 1 & 2 (Early Years): Monthly PLN 4,000 — Annual total (10 months) PLN 40,000. - Years 1–6 (Primary): Monthly PLN 6,000 — Annual total (10 months) PLN 60,000. - Years 7–11 (Lower and Upper Secondary up to IGCSE): Monthly PLN 6,000 — Annual total (10 months) PLN 60,000. - IB Diploma Years (IB1 & IB2 / Years 12–13): Monthly PLN 6,250 — Annual total (10 months) PLN 62,500. - Example first-year total for a new entrant in Kindergarten 1: PLN 40,000 tuition + PLN 3,000 registration = PLN 43,000.
Billing schedule and payment terms - Tuition is billed across the school year and is payable from September to June (the published figures are given as monthly instalments for those months). - Payments can be made by bank transfer directly into the school's bank account; bank transfer fees are payable by the payer. - School fees do not include public examination entry fees (IGCSE, IB), school camps, field trips or the cost of school lunches; these are charged separately.
Boarding fees - The British International School of Cracow operates as a day school; boarding is not applicable.
Other costs and additional charges - Examination fees for external public exams (IGCSE and IB) are additional and charged separately. - School trips, school camps, and school lunches are not included in the published tuition and are charged in addition. - There is no daily compulsory uniform. The school encourages purchase of house-colour polo shirts and hoodies (optional) sold through an external school shop; those branded items are an additional cost and are not sold directly by the school office.
Refund information - The registration fee is non-refundable.
Fee payment options (accepted methods) - The published information specifies payment by bank transfer into the school account; bank transfer charges must be borne by the payer. No other specific card or online-payment methods are published in the available fee notes.
Brief note on published details and gaps found - The school's published materials give the one-time registration fee, monthly tuition amounts (Sep–Jun) and confirm that bank transfer is used for payments, and that exam entries, trips and lunches are charged separately. However, a detailed published policy on tuition refunds, notice periods for withdrawal, and a full list of accepted payment methods (e.g., whether credit card or online payment is accepted) was not found in the fee information available. The registration fee is explicitly stated as non-refundable.
Fee details
Application / registration fees
- One-off registration fee payable on conclusion of the enrolment contract: PLN 3,500. (Reduced registration fee for children who attended the school's preschool: PLN 3,325).
Tuition fees by year group (monthly, annual and per-term equivalents)
- Standard Primary (Grades 1–8): - Monthly tuition: PLN 3,500. - Annual total (12 months): PLN 42,000. (Calculated: PLN 3,500 × 12.) - Per-term equivalent (annual ÷ 3): PLN 14,000. (For display or budgeting; the school bills monthly over 12 months.)
- Primary price for children who attended the school's preschool (same programme, reduced rate): - Monthly tuition: PLN 3,325. - Annual total (12 months): PLN 39,900. (Calculated: PLN 3,325 × 12.) - Per-term equivalent (annual ÷ 3): PLN 13,300.
- Bilingual Grade 0 (primary school entry / specific Grade 0 offer): - Monthly tuition: PLN 2,800. (For graduates of the school's kindergarten: PLN 2,650.) - Annual total (12 months): PLN 33,600. (PLN 31,800 for preschool graduates.) - Per-term equivalent (annual ÷ 3): PLN 11,200. (PLN 10,600 for preschool graduates.)
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Tuition is charged and payable for each of the 12 calendar months of the year, with the 12-month billing period starting on 1 September. - The one-off registration fee is payable on conclusion/signing of the contract.
Discounts and conditions
- 5% sibling discount for a younger child. - A 5% discount may be available when the full annual tuition is paid in advance before 1 September. Discounts are not cumulative.
Boarding / accommodation
- The school does not operate boarding provision; transport to school is provided by a school bus for primary and high-school pupils (bus is an additional paid service).
Other costs and additional fees
- Meals: School meals are not included in the published tuition and are charged in addition. - School bus: Transport by school bus is an additional paid service. - Uniforms and books: Uniforms are mandatory; uniforms and textbooks are paid for by parents and charged separately (costs are determined at the start of the academic year). - Extracurricular activities: Selected additional activities are included in tuition; many extracurricular clubs and specialist activities (swimming, robotics, speech therapy, coding, clubs, etc.) are offered for an extra fee. - Other possible additional costs: optional specialist services, workshops, trips, and individual therapies where applicable; these are charged separately.
Refunds and cancellations
- The school lists the registration fee as a one-off payment and sets payment and billing conditions in the contract. No separate, detailed public refund schedule for tuition or registration fees is published on the school's public fee and documents pages. Parents should review the enrolment contract for the formal terms governing cancellations and refunds.
Fee payment options and process
- The school's published information sets the billing schedule and amounts and states the registration and tuition payment timing (contract signing and monthly/12-month billing). Specific payment arrangements (bank details, accepted payment methods such as bank transfer or card, instalment instructions) are provided and agreed in the enrolment contract and at the time of registration. Contact the school office for the contract and payment instructions.
Note: Payment is structured over 12 calendar months starting 1 September; the per-term figures above are provided as simple annual ÷ 3 equivalents for reporting or comparison.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
The school does not have a school uniform.
Uniform requirement
Students wear school uniforms.
Food options
Food options
BISC Lunches are provided; a weekly lunch menu includes soups, main dishes and desserts.
Food options
Three meals are served daily: a breakfast buffet, a two-course dinner with fruits/vegetables and water, and a snack. Diet options include vegetarian, vegan, and lactose-free, with menus adapted in consultation with a dietician. Purchasing meals is optional.
House system
House system
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House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
Independent school founded in 1995; co-owned; Monika Wnęk joined the group of co-owners in 2024 as President of the School7s Management Board; supervised by the Polish Ministry of Education and the Ma42opolska Board of Education; Parent60–Teacher Association (PTA) and the Advisory Board involve parents in governance.
Governance and ownership
The school is a private international primary school and is part of the Da Vinci's International Schools group.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
English-based curriculum from early years to the IB Diploma. Foundation Level follows the British Early Years Foundation Stage, and all stages are centred on the English National Curriculum. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is offered across secondary, and Cambridge and Edexcel examinations are used in senior years. The school is accredited by the International Baccalaureate Organisation and by Cambridge International, and teaches an English-based curriculum across the school.
Curriculum details
From preschool to the IB Diploma, Da Vinci's International Schools provide international education in Kraków. Classes are conducted in English. The Primary School emphasizes small-group classes. The campus features a large parking lot, three playgrounds, and a sports field. There is a school bus for primary and high school students. Nutritious and balanced meals are provided.
Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
Small class sizes.
Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
IB Diploma results are well above the global average. IB Diploma candidates achieve excellent results, with annual average scores above global figures, and graduates progress to leading universities around the world.
Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
Graduates progress to top universities around the world, including University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, University College London and University of Bath.
Higher education progression
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Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
The IB Diploma Programme develops students intellectually, socially, and emotionally. There is active partnership with parents, with regular parent–teacher meetings and four detailed school reports each year to support student well-being and progress.
Social & emotional learning
The IB MYP programme is followed at Da Vinci's International Primary School. Within that framework we emphasise our students' educational needs and support their social and emotional development. A holistic approach to the development of every student's personality is prioritised. Every day students learn and talk in English and are immersed in a multi-lingual, multi-cultural environment. They spend at least 30 minutes outdoors, wear school uniforms, and eat nutritious meals. They acquire new skills and develop key abilities according to the IB Learner Profile, cultivate creative talents, use ICT tools, participate in extracurricular classes, learn to cooperate within a group, and prepare for the transition to the IB DP.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
English is the language of instruction.
English as an additional language
English is the language of instruction; language classes are taught by native speakers; fluency in two languages is supported.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing
The school emphasises students' social and emotional development as part of the IB framework and adopts a holistic approach to developing each student's personality.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
The school places a high priority on safeguarding of students and staff, including child protection, and the safe recruitment of appropriately qualified and experienced staff.
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
Dedicated facilities support creative, athletic, and technological talents. The school educates 220 students from over 35 countries. It offers a complete educational pathway from Preschool (age 3) to the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, with English as the language of instruction. The IB Diploma Programme is available from primary through secondary. Located in historic Cracow.
Facilities overview
The school is located in Kraków near the Mogilskie Roundabout. The campus has a large private parking lot. There are three playgrounds on campus. A sports field is available for outdoor physical education and team sports. The interior is spacious and aesthetically designed. There is a school bus for primary and high school students; classes are conducted in English.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
Gym is available for Physical Education.
Sports facilities
A sports field is on campus for outdoor physical education and team sports. There are three playgrounds on campus for active outdoor activity. The outdoor spaces support physical education, recreation, and movement during the school day. The campus layout provides space for movement and physical activities.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
ICT & Library facilities are available for learning. Science facilities support Physics, Chemistry, and Biology/ESS.
Academic facilities
English is the language of instruction and language instruction is delivered by native speakers. The IB program guides the curriculum, including the Primary Years Programme and the Middle Years Programme. Small class sizes of up to 19 students per class enable individualized attention. The school emphasizes international-mindedness and a multilingual, multicultural environment. Modern technologies are used for educational purposes.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Extra Curricular Activities are offered beyond the classroom. A timetable shows the current range of activities for the 2023/2024 academic year and prices vary; some activities may be provided free of charge. Information is available via the Schoology platform.
Extra curricular facilities
The school offers a range of extra-curricular activities beyond the core curriculum. Students participate in activities that develop artistic talents. They engage in sports and other physical activities as part of the program. Students use modern technologies as part of extracurricular learning. The activities encourage collaboration and teamwork as part of IB Learner Profile development.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
British International School of Cracow has 30 years of experience delivering British education. The school blends traditional British educational practices with innovative teaching methods and serves students from more than 30 nationalities. It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, which has been delivered since 2006, and operates as an IB World School. The school is accredited by the IB, Cambridge International, COBIS, and AQA.
History
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Community
Community
BISC Kraków hosts a multicultural community in the heart of Cracow, with families from diverse cultural backgrounds. The school emphasizes care and belonging, recognizing each child as an individual and supporting both academic and personal growth. It maintains active channels for family engagement, including a newsletter that shares university destinations, curriculum highlights, student achievements, and community events. Beyond the classroom, the school offers activities such as a ski camp, a green camp, and concerts that bring the community together.
Community
The school provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. Languages include Spanish, French, and Ukrainian, and there is an English-language Book Club. Clubs cover nature with a Biological Club and Garden Club; arts with an Art Club, Music Club, choir, ceramics and calligraphy; and sports with Judo and Table Tennis, as well as clubs for curious learners such as Detective Club and Archaeological Club. Other activities include Lego Education, Chess, Glob Creators – Canva and AI, IT Club, and Cooking Club. Some extracurricular activities are included in the tuition, and others require additional payment; you will be able to find out more about extracurricular activities during the interview.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school offers Beyond the Classroom programs such as Summer School, Ski Week, Green Camp, and Mini Camp, along with theatre performances and concerts. These experiences foster curiosity, creativity, teamwork, and leadership while linking learning with real-world adventures. They develop confidence and collaborative skills through hands-on activities beyond regular lessons.
Academic & intellectual
The school provides a variety of intellectually engaging clubs. These include Chess for strategic thinking, the Biological Club, the Archaeological Club, and Detective Club. IT Club and Glob Creators – designing with Canva and AI develop digital literacy and creative problem solving. Lego Education supports hands-on learning and practical application of science and engineering.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Theatre performances and concerts are part of Beyond the Classroom, enabling students to express themselves and collaborate in drama and music settings. These activities foster creativity and confidence in front of audiences and provide opportunities to explore drama and musical performance beyond standard lessons.
Arts & creative
Arts and creative activities include Art Club, Music Club, Choir, Ceramics, and Calligraphy. Students explore visual and performing arts and express ideas through their work. The programs foster collaboration and creativity across disciplines.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
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Cultural & language
Foreign language opportunities include Spanish, French, and Ukrainian. There is an English Book Club for readers. These activities support multilingual development and cross-cultural understanding.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies
For social and hobbies, a range of clubs helps students pursue interests outside traditional academics. Lego Education supports hands-on building and teamwork. Detective Club and Archaeological Club encourage inquiry and imaginative play. Cooking Club offers culinary exploration and collaboration.
Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Participants gain social and leadership skills through involvement in camp programs and performances. These experiences encourage teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, while providing opportunities to plan and participate in events. They build confidence and collaborative abilities useful for further studies and future careers.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Ski Camp offers a week of adventure in the mountains where students develop skiing or snowboarding skills while building confidence and teamwork. Green Camp connects students with nature through outdoor exploration and activities that promote respect for the environment and personal growth. Mini Camp provides an early overnight experience that supports independence and social development. Theatre performances and concerts also support emotional well-being through creative expression.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Physical activity is promoted through Judo and Table Tennis Club. Garden Club and Biological Club provide outdoor and nature-based activities. Daily outdoor time is encouraged, with at least 30 minutes outdoors for students.
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
The language of instruction is English, with an English-based curriculum from early years through the IB Diploma. In Group 1 Studies in Language & Literature, students may study English A Literature or Polish A Literature, or pursue a self-study language option. In Group 2 Language Acquisition, courses include English B, French B, German B and Spanish B.
Language provision
English is the language of instruction. Students learn an additional language.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
The school welcomes children of all nationalities and operates an ongoing enrolment throughout the school year. English is the language of instruction in all stages, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available for students new to English; a language assessment may be required prior to enrolment with an EAL teacher. For enrolment, the following documents are required: the child's passport; previous school reports; any previous qualifications achieved; any previous certificates of English language proficiency; a visa or Resident's Card for non-EU students stating the right to remain in Poland during enrolment; a letter of support from the employer if they will be liable for the payment of tuition fees; and a non-refundable registration fee of PLN 3,000.
Admissions
Recruitment for Da Vinci's International Primary School is ongoing throughout the year and new students may be admitted during the course of the school year. This process is presented in six steps. 1) Initial contact followed by provision of details. The School Manager is engaged to provide information about the school and next steps. A meeting can be scheduled, or the relevant details can be sent to the family. This sets up the information flow for the remainder of the admissions process. 2) Meeting at the School. An information meeting with the School Manager is held, including a tour of the school and an explanation of the rules. The School Manager welcomes families and answers questions, and a separate meeting with the IB PYP or IB MYP Programme Coordinator is arranged to discuss the IB programme. 3) Interview. An interview with the candidate explores academic and non‑academic interests and other matters the family wishes to share. An informal conversation with a psychologist takes place, and a test to determine the child's level of English is administered as part of the interview. 4) Free trial days. The family is invited to two free trial days so the child can experience lessons, break times, meals, and school life. The child is guided around the school by peers during the visit. 5) Decision time. The headmaster makes the final admission decision. If the decision is positive, the relevant documents are prepared and forwarded to the family to review before signing. 6) Signing of the contract, payment of fees. The contract is signed and fees are arranged, marking the start of the educational journey at Da Vinci's International Primary School.