More Russian then Spanish: These are the most studied languages in Czech schools

Russian remains a popular second foreign language in Czech primary schools, taught to approximately 47,850 students last school year, far surpassing French, with 10,370 students, and Spanish, with 18,500, according to Education Ministry data.

However, a shift is on the horizon. Under a new framework curriculum introduced by the Ministry of Education this week, Russian, Italian, and other less common languages will be removed from schools' offerings by 2034. Instead, students will be required to study a second foreign language, choosing between German, French, or Spanish, beginning no later than seventh grade. Currently, this requirement starts in eighth grade.

The ministry said it chose these languages ​​because they are essential at the European and global levels.

English remains the dominant foreign language in Czech schools, with 879,640 students studying it last year, nearly all of them as their first foreign language. German is the second most popular language, with 227,000 students, including nearly 6,000 learning it as their first foreign language.

Approximately 570 pupils studied Italian in primary schools last year, while around 1,300 learned other European languages.

"Experts also agree that the earlier we start learning languages, the higher the level we will reach," said Education Minister Mikuláš Bek at a press conference on Tuesday. He added that teaching English from an early age is common in many European countries.

Bek highlighted ongoing challenges in teacher recruitment, noting that only about 2,200 students graduate annually from teacher training programs, an insufficient number for Czech schools. Experts have repeatedly warned about the shortage of qualified educators in key subjects.

The updated curriculum also mandates earlier English instruction, starting in first grade, compared to the current requirement of third grade.

The policy changes aim to streamline language education and address the teacher shortage while adapting to shifting educational priorities.

The new educational framework aims to modernize Czech education by prioritizing competency-based learning, encouraging the development of skills and values alongside knowledge.

By granting schools flexibility in designing curricula and emphasizing adaptability, the reforms seek to better prepare students for a rapidly evolving world.

The Ministry of Education also plans to align these changes with secondary school entrance requirements, ensuring a cohesive approach that addresses both academic and practical needs across the education system.

Critics, however, say that teachers will not accept the new curricula if they do not have sufficient support.