Application for deferment of compulsory school attendance

Main information

If the child is not adequately physically or mentally mature and if the child's legal guardian requests this in writing at the time of the child's enrolment in compulsory school attendance, the school principal shall postpone the start of compulsory school attendance for one school year if the request is supported by a recommendation assessment from the relevant school counselling centre and a specialist doctor or clinical psychologist. The start of compulsory schooling may be postponed until the start of the school year in which the child reaches the age of eight.

This applies to you if

You are the parent of a child over the age of five who has to register for compulsory school attendance at primary school. If the pedagogical-psychological advisory board does not recommend starting primary school and on the basis of an opinion of a specialist doctor or clinical psychologist, it is possible to apply for a deferment of compulsory school attendance.

When to use this service

When registering for compulsory primary education.

Service settlement

What you need if you are using this service

It is necessary to submit an application for deferment of compulsory primary education , which includes a recommendation from the pedagogical-psychological counselling centre, a statement from a specialist doctor or a clinical psychologist. There is no central form, sometimes schools have their own forms on their websites.

There are no set application requirements, it depends on the agreement with the school principal. After reviewing the application, the school principal will issue a decision to grant or deny the application.

Referral assessments from the educational-psychological counselling centre and a specialist doctor or clinical psychologist are attached to the application.

Where and how to solve this service

An application for deferment of compulsory primary education is made when enrolling in the catchment primary school. The catchment primary school is determined by city/municipal ordinance.

The application can be submitted by post to the school address or in person.

How much will you pay

None

Additional information

What is the benefit of this service

Deferring compulsory school attendance by one school year allows a child who is immature to mature physically and mentally to a similar level to their peers and to complete school without problems.

Appeal options

An appeal against the refusal of an application for a deferment of compulsory school attendance is submitted through the school to the competent regional authority or Prague City Hall according to the location of the school.

Legislation

Sanctions

None

Frequently asked questions

None