Graduates from elementary schools in the Czech Republic face limited options if they do not pursue further education at the high school level. With scarce employment opportunities for minors, some language schools have stepped in to provide special daytime study programs for these students. However, due to high demand, these classes quickly fill up, and the schools are unable to offer student status to the children.

One such language school is the Elvis Language School in Prague, which offers a one-year post-elementary school study program. The program includes 20 hours of classes per week, focusing on English language preparation for Cambridge exams, as well as revision in mathematics and the Czech language. The aim is to prepare students for high school entrance exams in the following year. Despite these offerings, the school cannot provide students with “student status,” which is necessary for exemption from pension and health insurance payments.

Similarly, Akcent, another language school, offers a comparable language study program of 20 hours per week. However, the lack of student status remains an issue for students, particularly those receiving orphan pensions or seeking employment registration at the labor office.

Alternative options include studying at private schools or pursuing education abroad. Education agencies facilitate learning opportunities at foreign high schools, primarily in the United States. However, these options can be costly, with annual study fees reaching significant amounts. Some agencies assist in obtaining scholarships, especially for students involved in sports. Private schools also provide alternatives, such as Scio’s “Expeditionary Gymnasium” program, which combines structured distance learning with expeditions.

Ondřej Šteffl, the director of Scio, suggests that a year without traditional schooling does not necessarily mean a loss. He believes that education can be obtained outside the classroom, and with the help of artificial intelligence, it can be easier than before. Helena Marinková, the head of the Career Counseling Department at the National Pedagogical Institute, advises parents to appeal the results of the admission process if their child ranks low on the list. Vacancies often arise after the initial admissions process, especially during the second round.

This year, the high number of applicants has resulted in a surplus of students seeking admission to high schools, particularly in Prague and the Central Bohemia region. Even students with excellent academic performance often struggle to secure a place in schools, highlighting the challenging situation for elementary school graduates in the country.

Article by Prague Forum