About the School
Karel Čapek Grammar School is a general secondary school with a long-standing tradition, located in the town of Dobříš, approximately 40 kilometres south of Prague. The school provides a supportive learning environment where students can develop their academic abilities, personal talents, and prepare for further study and future careers.
Why Is the School Named after Karel Čapek?
The school is named after Karel Čapek, one of the most influential Czech writers, playwrights, and journalists of the 20th century. The connection is not merely symbolic—Čapek had close ties to the Dobříš region.
His summer residence, Strž, located in the nearby village of Stará Huť, was a wedding gift. He spent much of his time there until his death in 1938, and many of his best-known works were written at Strž, including the novel War with the Newts and the play The White Disease. This strong regional connection is one of the reasons why our school proudly bears his name.
Study Programmes
The school offers two academic programmes:
- Eight-year Grammar School Programme (for students aged 11+, entering after Year 5 of primary school)
- Four-year Grammar School Programme (for students aged 15+, entering after Year 9 of primary school)
Both programmes provide a broad academic education. Throughout their studies, students gain knowledge across a wide range of subjects while gradually developing their individual interests and strengths.
During the final two years, students choose from a range of elective seminars designed to prepare them for university studies. These include subjects such as Biology, Mathematics, Geography, Social Sciences, Literature, History, and Computer Science.
Foreign Languages
Language learning is an essential part of the curriculum.
- English is the first foreign language and is compulsory for all students.
- Students choose German or French as their second foreign language.
In addition to regular language classes, students participate in conversation lessons and practical communication activities designed to develop real-life language skills.
Language learning extends well beyond the classroom through international projects, exchanges, and educational trips.
International Cooperation
Erasmus+ and Student Exchanges
The school actively participates in the Erasmus+ programme. Students have opportunities to host visiting students from countries such as Ireland, France, Italy, Madeira (Portugal), and Turkey, as well as take part in exchange visits abroad.
Study Abroad
Some students spend a semester or a full academic year studying at partner schools overseas, including destinations such as Canada, Finland, South Africa, and Australia. At the same time, our school regularly welcomes international students who study with us for one school year.
School Activities
Educational Trips
The school organises educational visits to German- and French-speaking countries. Students also take part in subject-specific excursions, including literary and historical tours in Prague and guided visits conducted in foreign languages.
French Day
One of the school's long-standing traditions is French Day, held every December and organised by students together with the French language department. The event celebrates French culture through traditional cuisine, music, theatre performances, and presentations. The proceeds from the event and the accompanying charity flea market are donated to charitable causes.
Language Competitions
Students regularly participate in English, German, and French language competitions, achieving excellent results at both district and regional level.
Preparing Students for the Future
Karel Čapek Grammar School offers a well-rounded academic education complemented by strong language preparation and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. Through international cooperation, educational projects, and cultural activities, students broaden their horizons, gain valuable international experience, and build a solid foundation for university studies and their future professional lives.