PPLI Annual Report (2019) - Flipbook - Page 33
Diversication of the range of languages on offer (Action 2.A.6)
Action Progress
Polish in Cork
2019 saw the diversification of languages continue in West Cork with the introduction of Polish in Bandon
and Macroom. Due to the close geographical proximity of post-primary schools in both locations, it was an
appropriate opportunity to pilot the delivery of courses with mixed cohorts from different schools to make
the provision more sustainable.
Polish in Bandon: All three schools share Leaving Certificate classes. For the Junior Cycle Short Course, there
School
School Type
Sort Course
St. Brogan’s College
DEIS Mixed
17
Hamilton High School
Boys
Non-curricular Leaving
Certicate
18
9
Coláiste na Toirbhirte
Girls
Polish in Macroom:
The teacher is shared between two schools that are in close proximity to each other.
School
School Type
Sort Course
De la salle
Boys
8
St. Mary’s
Girls
9
Non-curricular Leaving
Certicate
14
In order to satisfy demand for Polish teaching in these two areas, PPLI employed two new Polish teachers who
were also involved with Polish language teaching and cultural events in the local community. Both teachers
are highly skilled and have undertaken two sessions of CPD with PPLI as well as availed of other opportunities
at the Polish Embassy in London and in Poland. As a result of these events, both teachers share resources and
expertise regularly to help support the teaching and learning of Polish students across Cork and employ
innovative methodologies to bring Polish language and culture alive (see photos on following page).
In St. Brogan’s College in Bandon, the MFL Department and school have fully incorporated the Polish teacher
into the life of the school such as encouraging her to attend whole school CPD and participate in meetings.
This has not only supported the full integration and normalisation of Polish language and culture into the
curriculum but has also provided visibility for the teacher and students in the school community.
As well as working inside the classroom, both teachers have encouraged the use of Polish outside in the
classroom. In Bandon, various opportunities have been organised including a visit to a local Polish shop
where they ordered food in Polish (see photos on following page).
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