Language No Barrier in Pupils' New Home

Mar 29, 06:03 AM

Current Headlines: By Moira Sharkey

Paula Wojewoda and Monika Jakimowicz are among thousands of Polish youngsters settling into life in Welsh schools.

The 16-year-olds, who moved to Cardiff last summer, are already star pupils in their A-level chemistry class at St David's Catholic College, Penylan.

Despite having to cope with living in a new country and learning a new language, the sixth-formers are reaping the rewards of their hard work.

Monika, who moved from Wroclaw in Poland in August, is also studying AS levels in German, biology and physics.

She said: 'At the beginning when I moved here, it was very hard trying to understand the lessons, but as my English improves I am finding it easier.'

Paula, who now lives in Roath after moving from Gdansk in July, is studying A-levels in maths, biology and English as well as chemistry and hopes to go on to study medicine or architecture said: 'The education here at St David's is different in a very positive way.

'The teachers are more focused on you and the one-to-one attention is helpful.'

Dr Mike Beer, head of chemistry, said: 'Both girls have adapted extremely well to learning through the medium of English.

'They deserve much praise for the way they've overcome the language barrier to reach such a high attainment level in chemistry.'

By chance, Monika is now being taught German at the college by Ewelina Kowalska, who lived a few streets away from Monika's family in Wroclaw. The pair are once again neighbours as both are living in Canton.

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