MŠMT Revises Basic Education Curriculum Language Rules (Czechia, June 2026)
MŠMT announced changes to the revised RVP ZV for basic education. The changes remove the requirement to start English in grade 1 and move the second foreign language from the common base to compulsory-choice subjects.
MŠMT announced changes to the revised RVP ZV for basic education. The changes remove the requirement to start English in grade 1 and move the second foreign language from the common base to compulsory-choice subjects.
What Changed?
The ministry decided to simplify the revised national curriculum document and adjust foreign language rules. Schools will have more discretion over how they schedule English on the first stage, while the expected exit level by grade 5 remains binding.
Old System vs New System
The revised RVP ZV included a requirement to start English from grade 1 and placed another foreign language in the common base for all pupils from grade 7.
The English start requirement from grade 1 is removed, schools can distribute English teaching on the first stage while meeting the grade 5 exit level, and the second foreign language becomes part of the compulsory-choice area.
Who Is Affected?
Student Impact
Pupils may see different timing for English instruction in the early grades and more flexible access to a second foreign language later in basic education.
Parent / Family Impact
Parents should check how their child's school updates its school curriculum and language timetable after MŠMT publishes the adjusted document.
School / Institution Impact
Schools must revise school curriculum planning, timetables, and communication with parents once the amended RVP ZV version is available.
Teacher / Staff Impact
Language teachers and curriculum coordinators will need to adapt teaching plans, especially in grade 1 English and second foreign language arrangements.
Key Dates
- 2026-06-10: changes announced
- mid-August 2026: first adjusted version planned for schools
- 2026/2027: further updates and model school curriculum work planned.
What To Do
- Schools should wait for the adjusted document
- review language timetables
- and prepare school curriculum updates before the 2026/2027 preparation period.
What To Watch Next
Watch the mid-August 2026 publication and later school curriculum model materials.
Global Context
The change is relevant for international curriculum comparison because it alters early foreign language timing and the status of second foreign language learning.
Source Record
Source type: Official announcement
Source name: Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports (MŠMT)