British schools in the Czech Republic: Prague and Brno
A guide to British international schools in Czechia, mostly in Prague: how they operate within the Czech system, admissions, costs and practical tips for families.
The Czech Republic’s international schools are concentrated in Prague, which has a sizeable international community from multinational companies, embassies, tech firms and a growing start-up scene. Brno, the second city, has a smaller selection.
The British school scene in Prague
Prague offers several schools following the English National Curriculum, from Early Years through IGCSE and A-Level, as well as IB and American schools. Many British schools in Prague have a mixed student body of international and Czech families. Czech families often choose them for English-language education and access to universities abroad.
Schools are spread around the city, with several in the leafy southern and western districts. Check bus routes and journey times before choosing housing.
How they fit the Czech system
International schools need to be registered with the Czech authorities. Their status determines whether attendance counts towards Czech compulsory schooling, which matters for Czech nationals and long-term residents. Some schools are fully part of the Czech school register; others operate as foreign schools. Czech children at foreign schools may need to take periodic exams to meet Czech requirements.
Universities
Students with A-Levels or the IB can apply to universities in the UK and worldwide. Czech universities accept foreign qualifications through a recognition process, and many offer programmes in English.
Practical points
- The Czech school year runs from 1 September to 30 June. British schools generally follow a similar calendar.
- Fees in Prague are typically lower than in Western European capitals, but they vary widely between schools.
- Basic Czech helps enormously in everyday life outside the international community.
Next steps: how to choose a British international school and admissions.
Directory: British schools in Czech Republic
| School | City | Ages | Curricula |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prague British International School | Prague | 2–19 | EYFS, IPC, IGCSE, IB Diploma |
| Riverside International School | Prague | 3–18 | English National Curriculum, IGCSE, IB Diploma |
| The English College in Prague | Prague | — | IB Diploma |
Frequently asked questions
Is school compulsory in the Czech Republic?
Yes. Compulsory school attendance runs for nine years, usually from age 6 to 15, and the final year of pre-school education is also compulsory.
Do British schools in Prague teach Czech?
Most do, either as a compulsory subject for Czech nationals or as an option for international students. Ask how Czech is taught at different levels.