Slovakia launches mandatory primary school curriculum reform

From September, Slovak primary schools will implement a new state‑run educational programme for first‑grade pupils. The reform replaces rote learning with an emphasis on comprehension, critical thinking and practical application of knowledge. Schools for students with special educational needs are exempt for the 2026/27 school year, with mandatory adoption set for September 2027. About 70 such schools are already preparing for voluntary rollout with support from the National Institute of Education and Youth (NIVaM).

Petra Fridrichová, director of the formal education support department at NIVaM, explained that the change will be introduced gradually, starting with first‑graders, and schools can adjust curricula step‑by‑step based on practical experience. The new approach also stresses active student participation, collaboration and linking learning to real‑life contexts.