Exciting Transformation Ahead for Prague’s International School!

One of the most recognized international schools in Prague is currently undergoing a significant transformation. Previously called Meridian, the institution has rebranded itself as Perrott Hill British School Prague, now aligning with the esteemed Perrott Hill School located in the UK.

But what implications does this transformation hold for students and their families? Furthermore, how will the school establish its presence in Prague’s highly competitive international education landscape?

A Strategic Shift

Executive Headmaster Dr. Craig Wilson indicates that this rebranding goes beyond merely changing the name; it signifies a substantial change in philosophy. By becoming part of the Perrott Hill Education group—comprising institutions in the UK, Spain, and Lithuania—the Prague branch is entering a more cooperative and resourceful educational environment.

“This transition enables us to uphold our high academic standards while leveraging the assistance and knowledge of a broader educational network,” Dr. Wilson states. “Our aim is to enhance our curriculum, expand opportunities for our students, and improve the overall experience for families.”

The institution follows the National Curriculum of England and maintains small class sizes, limited to 16 students in Year 1 and 20 from Year 2 onward. This approach is designed to ensure that each student receives personal attention. With more than 500 students hailing from over 50 different nationalities, it continues to be one of the most culturally diverse international schools in the Czech Republic.

Plans for Growth

Looking forward, Dr. Wilson has a vision for steady and sustainable growth.

“Our focus is on change that the school can sustain while preserving its strong community spirit,” he emphasizes. Some of the key priorities include:

• Expanding extracurricular activities, especially in music, robotics, and competitive athletics.
  
• Introducing instrumental music lessons to nurture talent, create performance opportunities, and simplify life for parents.
  
• Enhancing secondary education with an updated curriculum designed to better support students pursuing A-levels.
  
• Strengthening sports programs, providing additional competitive chances both locally and internationally.
  
• Upgrading facilities, focusing particularly on Primary and Secondary Schools and also creating spaces for innovation and recreation.
  

While these initiatives aim to improve the school experience, Dr. Wilson emphasizes that its welcoming, family-centric culture will remain a cornerstone. “Our goal is to grow, but never at the cost of what makes us exceptional.”

A Strong Foundation in Primary Education

Although the majority of the school’s expansion efforts are targeted towards secondary students, primary education continues to be a key focus. Parent feedback has been overwhelmingly favorable, with 97% of families indicating they would recommend the school to others.

“We’re enhancing our English as a Second Language (ESL) support as we acknowledge that many of our students come from non-English-speaking backgrounds,” Dr. Wilson states. “We also aim to expand our library and innovation lab to promote literacy and creativity from a young age.”

Collaboration Across Schools

Being integrated into a larger educational group presents new opportunities for students as well as faculty.

For students, this translates to chances for engaging in competitions related to sports, arts, and public speaking, in addition to the opportunity to participate in summer programs offered at Perrott Hill in the UK. Virtual partnerships with other schools within the network will further enrich the learning experience.

For teachers, sharing resources and professional development opportunities will contribute to improved teaching practices. “From my perspective, schools truly flourish when they work together. Exchanging ideas across campuses helps to strengthen everyone involved,” Dr. Wilson remarks.

What Stays the Same

In spite of these changes, the school remains dedicated to being inclusive and welcoming to families from all walks of life.

“What will not change is our commitment to fostering each student’s growth,” Dr. Wilson notes. “We are here to support children with various aspirations—whether they aim to enter Oxford or MIT, pursue careers in entrepreneurship, the arts, or vocational fields. Our mission is to assist them in discovering their paths.”

With its rebranding as Perrott Hill British School Prague, the goal of the institution is to blend the best of both worlds: a close-knit community atmosphere combined with the broadened opportunities that arise from being part of an international education network.

As Dr. Wilson articulates, “Our objective is straightforward—we aspire for every student to excel academically, socially, and personally, equipping them to step into the future they choose.”