According to a study conducted by the SYRI National Institute, Ukrainian children in Czech schools generally feel well and perceive Czech teachers as friendly and supportive. The study also found that Czech schools have taken different approaches to the adaptation of Ukrainian children, with some schools providing more support than others.

The study, which was conducted from last autumn and involved deep case studies on a sample of schools with a high number of Ukrainian refugees, found that the adaptation to the Czech education system is a long-term task. While the initial focus of schools was on social integration, adaptation to the education system will require more time and effort.

The study also noted that some Czech schools had established adaptation groups at the beginning, modified their curricula, created individualized schedules, and provided psychological support to Ukrainian children. However, the central methodology for adapting Ukrainian children was too general and rather chaotic, according to SYRI scientific director Klara Sedova.

Despite this, Ukrainian children generally find Czech schools easier than their Ukrainian counterparts, according to the study. The researchers attribute this to the fact that Czech teachers make considerably lower educational demands on Ukrainian pupils in the first phase in order to support their social integration.

As of September 30, 2022, over 50,000 children of Ukrainian refugees were attending Czech kindergartens, primary and secondary schools. The study notes that the adaptation of these children is an ongoing process, and that schools will need to continue to provide support in order to ensure their successful integration.

The study’s findings are important, as they highlight the challenges and opportunities associated with the integration of refugees into Czech schools. By providing individualized support and adapting to the needs of Ukrainian children, schools can help ensure their success and promote social cohesion.

However, more needs to be done to ensure that all schools have the resources and support they need to provide effective adaptation programs. This includes providing training to teachers and staff, developing clear and effective adaptation methodologies, and providing funding for additional resources and support.

In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of supporting the integration of Ukrainian children in Czech schools, and the need for ongoing efforts to ensure their success. By working together, schools, government, and civil society can help promote social cohesion and build a more inclusive society for all.

Article by Prague Forum