Since April 1, primary schools in Poland have been following a new rule: no mandatory homework assignments. Under the directive introduced by Education Minister Barbara Nowacka, teachers in grades 1-3 can only assign exercises that improve fine motor skills. Meanwhile, students in grades 4-8 may receive optional written or technical assignments, but these will not be graded.
The policy has stirred significant controversy, particularly among parents and educators who argue that it undermines educational quality and student discipline. Opponents stress that the lack of homework risks lowering students’ motivation and academic standards.
When Interia news portal interviewed parents and teachers, many were outspoken in their criticism of the policy. Romualda, a primary school teacher of Polish language and history, described the move as “a mistake,” observing a drop in student motivation since the ban. “Homework encouraged students to engage in some form of study at home,” she remarked, adding that the absence of assignments leaves students unchallenged outside of school.
Parents share similar frustrations. Magdalena, the mother of two primary school children, noted that many parents now rely on private tutors to fill the academic gap. “This lack of structure leads nowhere,” she commented, adding that her own children are now taking paid tutoring sessions. “The government tried to impress, but it backfired.”
Moreover, parents like Natalia, a former teacher and mother, report an increase in unannounced quizzes, which now serve as a replacement for homework. “In-class quizzes can’t be retaken, so if a child struggles, there’s no way to improve that grade,” she explained.
Critics argue that while the intention was to reduce stress and pressure on young students, the policy has only complicated the educational landscape, placing an additional financial and academic burden on families.