What’s Changing in the Czech School Act from September 1, 2025

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The amendment to the Czech School Act No. 239/2025 Sb. brings several significant changes that will affect kindergartens, elementary schools, parents, and children. Here’s a clear overview of the most important updates, and what they mean for you as parents.

New Enrollment Dates

• Preschool education - Enrollment will now take place from March 15 to April 15 (instead of the current May date).

• Compulsory school attendance - Parents must register their child for primary school between January 15 and February 15 of the year the child is starting Grade 1.

What this means for you: If you are planning for your child to join Grade 1 at Maple Bear Brno, please note that enrollment will take place earlier than before. We will inform you of the exact dates in advance and provide full support throughout the process.

2. Sharing Information Between Kindergartens and Elementary Schools

The elementary school that accepts your child will request pedagogical assessment results from their preschool. This helps teachers understand your child’s needs right from the start and provide the right level of support.

At Maple Bear Brno, we work with each child individually from day one. Having these insights means we can tailor our approach even more effectively from the very beginning.

3. Stricter Rules for School Start Deferrals

• Requests for a deferral must be submitted at the time of enrollment.

• The option for a “mid-year deferral” during the first semester of Grade 1 will no longer exist.

• Applications must be supported by an assessment from a doctor (excluding pediatricians or GPs for children) or a clinical psychologist, plus a recommendation from an educational counseling center.

• The counseling center must also issue a recommendation for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for the child.

What this means for you: If you are considering a deferral, you will need to make the decision before enrollment and prepare all required documentation in advance.

4. Teacher Assistants in Grade 1 from September 2026

Every standard Grade 1 class with at least 15 students will be entitled to a teaching assistant for 20 hours of direct teaching and 2 hours of indirect support each week.

At Maple Bear, we already take an individualized approach, but this legal change may bring even more targeted support where it’s needed most.

5. Descriptive (Written) Assessments in Grades 1 and 2

From the 2027/2028 school year (Grade 1) and 2028/2029 (Grade 2), children will receive descriptive assessments instead of grades. These will outline their progress, strengths, and areas for improvement.

We have been using descriptive feedback at Maple Bear Brno for years, focusing on encouragement, skill development, and motivation rather than just numbers.

6. Limited Option to Repeat Grade 1

Grade 1 students will automatically progress to Grade 2 unless parents request a repeat year and provide the necessary expert recommendations.

7. Gradual Phasing Out of Preparatory Classes

Preparatory classes for primary schools will be phased out by September 1, 2029.

What Parents Should Keep in Mind

• Plan for earlier enrollment dates from 2025 onward.

• Be aware that deferrals will follow stricter rules and require more documentation.

• Expect more support in Grade 1 through teaching assistants.

• Anticipate a shift from grades to written evaluations for the youngest students.

Our Commitment at Maple Bear Brno

The School Act amendment will affect how enrollment is scheduled, how school start deferrals work, and how children’s progress is assessed. At Maple Bear Brno, we welcome steps that encourage greater individualization and child-focused learning, this has always been at the heart of our philosophy.

We believe every child should feel safe, develop their potential, and learn with joy, free from unnecessary stress. We will keep you informed about all important steps, deadlines, and procedures, so you can focus on what matters most: sharing the joy of discovery with your child.

If you have any questions or need guidance, please reach out to our team. We are here for you and your family.