Civic Education for Change is a national project aimed at strengthening civic education in Poland through innovative teaching approaches and capacity-building in schools and kindergartens.
The project is implemented by the Foundation for the Development of the Education System (FRSE) in cooperation with The European Wergeland Centre (EWC), in close dialogue with national and regional education stakeholders.
The project supports the ongoing reform of civic education in Poland. Its overall aim is to strengthen democratic competences, critical thinking, and active citizenship among children and young people by empowering teachers, school leaders, and education professionals to create inclusive and democratic learning environments, as well as to promote meaningful participation in school and community life.
Expert team
A core component of the project is the development of practical teaching resources for civic education at preschool, primary, and secondary levels. In parallel, the project establishes a nationwide training programme for teachers and educators, based on a cascade model. National experts will train regional “change leaders”, who will in turn support and mentor teachers and school teams across the country.
Through training, mentoring, and networking activities, approximately 5,000 teachers and education professionals are expected to receive professional support, and around 200 schools and kindergartens will participate in activities aimed at strengthening democratic school culture and inclusive practices.
The project draws on international frameworks for democratic education developed by the Council of Europe and promotes a Whole School Approach to civic education. This approach integrates democratic values, participation, and human rights into all aspects of school life, from classroom practice to school leadership and cooperation with local communities.
Study visits and professional exchanges between Polish and Norwegian institutions contribute to knowledge sharing and adaptation of international good practices to the Polish context. Dissemination events, conferences, and evaluation studies support broader learning and cooperation between schools, public institutions, and civil society organisations.
Civic Education for Change is implemented under the Norwegian Financial Mechanism (2026–2031) as part of the Local Development Programme, with the Polish Ministry of Funds and Regional Policy acting as Programme Operator.