Many Polish settled in West Midlands after the Second World War. After the war there were approximately twelve thousand displaced persons living in and around the surrounding areas of Wolverhampton. The majority of these people were from central and eastern Europe.

Many of Polish had fought alongside the British troops and then came to settle in Wolverhampton, an area that had employment opportunities. Many of the Polish that settled here worked in the factories in and around the city, and many of them worked in Goodyears, a factory whose distinctive chimney towers above the skyline.

When they first arrived they faced many obstacles. They initially were not given housing and many of the Poles were sent to live on a camp in Perton, on the outskirts of Wolverhampton. The camp was basic and conditions were difficult. All this for men and women that had fought alongside their British  Allies in the war. 

The children were sent to local schools and began to study in English. Looking at the local archives there were some documents relating to the children from a Ministry of Education report that stated;

‘The children themselves are most friendly and on admirable terms with all their teachers. Quite unperturbed by all the changes, they enjoy many experiences in their School day. Their speech needs attention, and their independence could be more fully fostered.’