The standard of education and schools in Prague is generally high, and expat children can attend public school at no cost. But since the language of instruction in public schools is Czech, many expat parents choose to enrol their children in private or international schools instead. Tuition can be pricey, though, so it’s important to weigh up the options.
Public schools in Prague
Classes in public schools are taught entirely in Czech. Some expat parents are discouraged by this, but there are advantages to expat children being taught in Czech. Mainly, it’s a good way for them to learn the language and subsequently integrate into the culture and make local friends.
There are three main stages in the Czech Republic’s education system: preschool (ages two to six), elementary school (ages six to 15), and secondary school (ages 15 to 18 or 19). Education is compulsory from age five, which is the final year of preschool, until age 15 or 16, the end of elementary school. Compulsory years of education are fully funded by the government. After elementary school, most students continue to secondary school, where they can choose to pursue academic, technical, or vocational streams.
It is always a good idea for parents to visit schools of interest before enrolling their children. This can be done on official open days or may be arranged by request. Conditions in public schools may vary widely, and some are more amenable to and better equipped to host international students than others.
For details about the structure of the public education system, see Education and Schools in the Czech Republic.
Private schools in Prague
Private schools in Prague are partly funded by the state and partly by tuition, and they teach the Czech Republic’s national curriculum. Some use alternative teaching methodologies, such as Montessori, or teach through a religious lens.
There are also bilingual private schools in Prague that teach in both Czech and English, or sometimes Czech and German. Expat parents who can’t quite fit international school fees into their budget but are still concerned about their children having difficulties with the Czech language may find these schools to be an ideal solution.
International schools in Prague
Prague has a good selection of international schools available, with around 25 to choose from. Most schools teach curricula such as those of the US, the UK (including Cambridge IGCSE and A-Levels) and the International Baccalaureate. English is the most common language of instruction, but there are also schools teaching the national curricula of France or Germany in the associated language.
International schools are perhaps most useful for expats planning to reside in Prague for a relatively short period of time. The continuity in curriculum and language minimises disruption in the child’s education.
One caveat to bear in mind is that international schools can be expensive, so if you’re moving to Prague for work, it’s worth negotiating for school fees as part of the relocation contract.
International schools can vary widely in ethos, curriculum, quality and size. Space tends to be limited, so it’s best to start the application process as soon as possible.
Special educational needs in Prague
The Czech government is working towards a goal of full integration of children with special needs into mainstream schools. In theory, all schools should have the facilities, staff, and support provisions required to assist children with special needs. In practice, implementation can be a bit uneven and not all schools are adequately equipped.
School counsellors are generally the first port of call in obtaining assistance for special needs, although language needs should also be communicated to the school’s principal directly.
If your family prefers a more specialised education environment, special needs schools are another option. Some parents and children find that these schools can better meet their needs. The decision of whether to opt for a special or mainstream school is left up to the family, although specialists can provide recommendations and advice.
Tutors in Prague
Tutors are extremely helpful in assisting expat children to adjust to their new school and curriculum, as well as the language of instruction, if different from home. Both Czech and English tutors are widely available, as are tutors for other subjects, such as maths, and they can provide school support where required.
There are websites and tutor companies that advertise at-home or online private tutoring services. There are also many language schools in Prague that assist expats and expat children to learn Czech.