Parents in Czech Republic and Slovakia Get Guidance on School Admission Rejections and Extended Childcare Support

Career counsellor Hana Maříková advises Czech families on how to handle a child's rejection from secondary school admissions on May 15. She emphasizes emotional support, separating the outcome from the child's value, and using the second admission round as an opportunity to make a more informed choice. Practical steps include checking the DiPS system for points, consulting school counsellors, and considering alternative schools beyond the immediate district. Appeals are only worthwhile if a scoring error is evident.

In Slovakia, the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Family confirms that parents whose children are not placed in a local state preschool can apply for an extended parental allowance. The entitlement applies to children aged three to six and requires a formal request, an appeal against the rejection within 15 days, and, if necessary, coordination with the municipality to find an alternative kindergarten. Documentation of each step must be submitted to receive the benefit, which continues until August 31, 2026, unless the child later gains a state preschool place.