From Prague to Oxford: An international school in Czechia delivers world-class results

Children who attend international schools in Czechia get a head-start when it comes to success both in academia and later life. Working in a foreign language such as English, on curricula tailored to meet the highest global standards, they learn how to work and think with a distinctly international outlook.  

One of Prague’s most well-known international schools is Park Lane, located in Malá Strana. An open day on Thursday, Jan. 26 will give children and parents alike the chance to learn about its highly successful International Baccalaureate Diploma Program, which prepares students to study at the best universities and excel in the world of work.

Park Lane’s relatively new IB program has already yielded extremely strong results. Three students last year achieved a maximum score of 45, while the school's average is an impressive 37 points, significantly higher than the global average.

Students aged 16 to 19 gain a breadth of knowledge and develop their capabilities by studying courses from six subject groups, including at least two languages. And they delve deeply into their favorite subject area with an extended essay assignment that prepares them well for the challenges of university study.

Given its rigor and scope, it’s no surprise that the IB study program is among the most popular and respected courses among universities, especially when assessing international candidates.

IB at Park Lane

Park Lane’s IB graduates achieved a 100 percent pass rate in 2022, despite the effects of the pandemic on their learning experience in the preceding years. 38 candidates scored an average of 37.21 points, significantly better than the global IB average of 31.98 points. And remarkably, two-fifths of last year’s graduates achieved a score of 40 or more.

Park Lane’s IB program was given yet another boost last year by the opening of its new IB Diploma center in Malá Strana, in a former convent school on Úvoz street. It’s an idyllic and inspiring place to study, situated right next to Prague Castle, boasting 18 classrooms, a library across two floors, state-of-the-art science labs, a performing arts studio, and much more.

The new space also has a 3,000-square-meter garden providing opportunities for outdoor learning.

Ticket to the world

With such strong results, it’s no surprise that many Park Lane students go on to study at some of the world’s leading higher education establishments. Students from the class of 2022 went on to study at Oxford University, Edinburgh University, Warwick University, and other famous institutions in the United Kingdom, as well as prestigious universities in the U.S., Japan, and the European Union.

One of Park Lane’s students from 2022, Jakub Surga, received offers from both Oxford University and the University of California, Berkeley, eventually opting for the renowned British institution. When asked what he would attribute this success to, Jakub responded: “fifteen years of study at Park Lane.”

Personal drive was key to Jakub’s success, but the talented student also cited a “great support network” at Park Lane which helped him achieve his ambitions. “Contacting older students who went through this process recently was of great help to me. I also had a mentor, who helped me draft and re-write the application essays,” he said.

Another crucial aspect of the application process in which study at Park Lane proves key is the emphasis placed on “transferable skills,” such as self-presentation and essay writing, by universities such as Oxford. The sheer variety of Park Lane’s IB program prepares students to write and think analytically across a wide range of topic areas, helping them tackle new challenges with greater confidence.

Opportunity and support at Park Lane

The learning experience at Park Lane puts students first. They are challenged with an academic program unlocking their potential, while being supported to lead a happy, safe and productive life at the school.

Students benefit from the latest teaching methods and materials. At the same time, with a location so close to Prague Castle in one of the most historic areas of the capital city, Czechia’s rich history permeates the school. 

And while the school’s emphasis on learning in English is a “main objective” for many parents, it isn’t all about developing impressive language skills. Learning in English forms just one part of a positive environment which respects pupils’ differences and individuality. This makes Park Lane a particularly popular choice among international families living in Prague.

Park Lane’s annual open day at all school campuses, including the center in Malá Strana, will take place on Thursday, Jan. 26, from 09:00 to 15:00. Parents and children will have the chance to tour the school guided by pupils, see classes in action, and ask staff any questions. 

Those who can’t attend the in-person open day can book a Zoom session as part of Park Lane’s Virtual Open Day, which provides more opportunities to meet staff and hear from current students about their experiences.

Park Lane is an international school giving students everything they need to thrive in an increasingly international world. Above all, it’s a place where students are supported to fulfill their potential, as shown in exceptional IB program results that open doors the world over.