What You Need to Know About the Czech School System When Moving with Children

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Are you relocating to the Czech Republic and wondering how to find the right school or preschool for your child? You’re not alone; many expat families face the same questions. The Czech education system has its own rules and structure, but don’t worry. We’re here to help you navigate it. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything from when your child can start preschool to what enrollment looks like, what documents you’ll need, and how to prepare for primary school.

Preschool (Kindergarten)

Children can usually begin preschool at the age of 3. Most preschools accept children between 3 and 6 years of age. The final year before starting primary school, often referred to as the “preparatory year,” is mandatory.

This means that if your child has been living in the Czech Republic for more than 90 days and turns five before the start of the school year, they are legally required to attend preschool. Attendance is typically 4 hours a day (usually 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.).

Enrollment into preschools usually takes place in May. Each preschool has its own admission criteria, but you’ll generally need to submit your child’s birth certificate, proof of residence, and a health certificate from a pediatrician. (Note: Some preschools require proof of vaccination.)

Preparatory year and the “Zero Grade”

If your child is between preschool and first grade (usually between 5 and 6 years old), you might want to consider the “zero grade”.

This is a year designed to help children transition smoothly from preschool to primary school and is officially recognized by the Czech authorities as fulfilling the mandatory pre-primary education requirement. At Maple Bear, we offer this “zero grade” specifically to help children, especially those who are not yet fluent in Czech, gain confidence before entering Grade 1.

Primary/Elementary School (Základní škola)

Children begin Grade 1 in the calendar year they turn six (as long as they turn six by August 31). Children born later may apply for a deferral.

School deferrals have been common in the past, but in 2025, the government is discussing a change in legislation that would restrict deferrals to only exceptional cases (e.g., serious health or developmental concerns). The proposed law is currently being debated, and a final decision is expected in fall 2025. We’ll keep you updated as soon as there is more clarity.

Enrollment into Grade 1 takes place every April, usually during the first two weeks. Some schools open online registration from March 1. You'll typically need to bring your child’s birth certificate, proof of residency, and in some cases, documents from an educational counselor.

What do you need to enroll?

• Child’s birth certificate and passport

• Proof of residence in the Czech Republic (e.g., rental contract)

• Health insurance (public or commercial)

• Vaccination record (required by many public preschools)

• Pediatrician’s certificate (mostly for preschool enrollment)

Czech or English?

If your child doesn’t speak Czech, it’s important to know that most public schools expect at least basic language knowledge. Some offer language support, but not all do.

That’s why many expat families choose bilingual schools, like Maple Bear, where education is naturally bilingual in both Czech and English. Children learn the language gradually and gently, while still meeting all Czech curriculum standards.

What does the school year look like?

• School starts on September 1 and ends at the end of June

• Breaks: autumn (October), Christmas, spring (February/March), Easter, and summer (July, August)

• Children receive a mid-year and final report card - some schools use grades, others use narrative evaluations*

• School days usually start at 8:00 and end around noon or early afternoon in lower grades

*In 2025, an amendment to the Czech Education Act was passed, introducing the option of narrative (non-numeric) assessment instead of traditional grading for the first two years of elementary school. The goal is to reduce pressure on children and focus more on their individual growth and progress. The amendment is currently awaiting approval by the Senate. If passed, narrative assessment could come into effect starting in the 2026/2027 school year.

What do we do at Maple Bear?

At Maple Bear, we combine the Canadian education model with Czech national requirements. What does that mean? It means we focus on natural learning, independence, and critical thinking. Every day includes learning in both Czech and English, helping children grow up bilingual in the most natural way.

We have schools in Brno, Olomouc, and Prague, and we’re happy to help not only with the enrollment process but with understanding how the Czech system works. We know that settling into a new country can be challenging, and we’re here to support your family every step of the way.

Have a specific question about your situation?

Get in touch. We’ll be happy to help, whether you’re preparing for enrollment, the zero grade, or transferring to a new school.