At
SAIL High School, students chart their own course through a world of academic
choice and opportunity.
They may pursue a holistic pathway toward the Cambridge
ICE and AICE Diplomas or specialise in their chosen fields from over 50
Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level subjects — each step a two-year voyage leading to
globally recognised qualifications.
The early years at a Polish General High School balance general education across languages, mathematics, sciences, humanities, and physical education, following a holistic approach that builds a broad academic foundation and finally leads to Matura exams in largely predefined subjects. In contrast, the Cambridge International Curriculum offers a path to early specialization, allowing students to choose from over 70 IGCSE subject exams according to their individual interests and strengths. At SAIL, we combine the strengths of both approaches - fostering well-rounded learners while also empowering each student to pursue their unique passions and talents.
A holistic approach in school education nurtures not only academic achievement, but also curiosity, adaptability, and a broad understanding of the world. Studying a wide range of disciplines fosters critical and interdisciplinary thinking that serves learners throughout life. This is the foundation of programmes like the Cambridge AICE Diploma or the IB Diploma, which encourage a broad, integrated perspective and prepare students for the complexity of today’s world.
For some learners, however, a more specialized path — such as the A-levels — is the right fit, allowing them to focus deeply on their strongest subjects. This approach can be ideal for students with clear academic or career goals, or for those who excel in one field and prefer not to be limited by a holistic exam structure. At SAIL, we support both paths, recognizing that every student’s strengths and aspirations are unique.
As a registered high school in Poland, SAIL delivers the full core programme of subjects required by law, guaranteeing compliance with national educational standards. The number of weekly hours gradually decreases from Class H1 through Class H4, reflecting the transition toward more specialised study. A detailed list of all subjects and weekly hours is available in the timetables for each class.
In addition to the core curriculum, students also have access to elective courses — such as Health Education, Catholic Religion, or Ethics — offered according to their interests and our school profile.
In the first two years of SAIL High School (H1–H2), students prepare for the Cambridge International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) — the world’s most popular international qualification for 14–16-year-olds. It builds a solid academic foundation across a broad range of subjects, encouraging learners to think critically, solve problems, and communicate with confidence. More than 75 subjects exams can be taken at SAIL.
Students who take a wider range of subjects may work toward the Cambridge ICE (International Certificate of Education) — a group award that recognises achievement across five key curriculum areas: Languages, Humanities & Social Sciences, Sciences, Mathematics, and Creative & Professional subjects. This holistic qualification encourages both academic balance and depth and serves as ideal preparation for the Cambridge AICE or IB Diploma.
The first two years of High School at SAIL are designed to give every student a strong academic foundation while providing time and guidance to explore their options. During this period, learners are encouraged to try out a variety of subjects and discover where their strengths and passions truly lie—whether they’re preparing for a holistic path to a high school diploma or considering early specialization.
Taking IGCSE exams, or at least mock exams, is highly recommended as solid preparation for those subjects in which students will later sit their final A-Level exams. For those still deciding on their future direction, these years offer a valuable opportunity to experiment, explore, and grow with the support of dedicated teachers.
At SAIL High School, assessment follows the Polish 1–6 grading system, where 1 is the lowest and 6 the highest. Students receive individual grades for each subject, reflecting both achievement and ongoing effort. A variety of fair and transparent assessment methods are used — including tests, short quizzes, homework, oral participation, classroom activity, projects, and additional assignments, depending on the subject. The assessment methods and their weighting are presented by each subject teacher at the beginning of the school year.
At the end of each semester, students receive a comprehensive report card with grades and detailed teacher comments for every subject. Parent–Teacher Meetings are offered twice each semester to ensure close communication and support. In the final year (H4), students may also choose to take Cambridge International examinations or the Polish Matura exam, though neither is obligatory for SAIL students.
The Cambridge IGCSE assesses students’ knowledge, understanding, and practical skills across a wide range of subjects. Each subject includes up to four components — written exams, oral assessments, coursework, or practical work — depending on the discipline. Grades are awarded on an eight-point scale (A*–G) with clear international performance standards. Exams are held twice yearly (June and November), with results released in August and January, and students may retake subjects to improve outcomes.
Students seeking a more holistic academic pathway may work toward the Cambridge ICE (International Certificate of Education). The ICE is a group award recognising achievement across five subject areas: Languages, Humanities & Social Sciences, Sciences, Mathematics, and Creative & Professional Studies. To qualify, learners complete at least seven subjects, including two different languages, and achieve a minimum pass in each.
The ICE Diploma is awarded at three levels — Pass, Merit, or Distinction — based on overall results.
At SAIL, we believe that education extends beyond academics — shaping each student’s personal, moral, social, and cultural growth. The Behaviour Grading System applies from P5 through H4 and supports these values through a fair and transparent points-based system. Students earn or lose points for their actions and engagement, as outlined in the school’s Internal Grading Policy.
Behaviour grades are reviewed at the end of each semester alongside academic evaluations. The form teacher assigns the final grade based on the total points and in consultation with the teacher council, ensuring that every assessment is balanced and consistent.
Behaviour grades are included in the semester classification and appear on each student’s semester report, reflecting their overall contribution to the school community.
