English College in Prague: Building a Community Beyond the Classroom

As soon as I step into the English College in Prague (ECP), it’s clear this isn’t your ordinary school. The hallways are alive with flyers, calling out to everyone about student concerts and plays. The walls are bursting with color and creativity and proudly displaying academic achievements. Framed photos, including those of Charles III’s visit, add to the school’s unique vibe.

I can feel the energy and talent that thrive in this place and reveal the school’s essence. Nigel Brown, the headmaster, nails it when he says, “The ECP is very proud to be on the register of Czech schools. We value the connections that we have with the local community. But we’re unashamedly British in our flavour.” That’s ECP for you: a mix of British style with a big heart for different cultures and ideas.

Joining forces with ECP to find passionate teachers was an eye-opener for me. Working on their recruitment booklet, I got to really understand the spirit of this community. If you’re on the lookout for a place to grow your career, or if you’re wondering where your kid could thrive, come with me. Let’s discover what makes ECP more than just a school, but a place where education is about growing together.

The Need for a British-Style Education in Prague

ECP is a place where history and a vision for the future come together. The school was first opened in 1927, inspired by the idea of international solidarity. World War II forced its doors to close, but it sprang back to life after 1990, just as the Iron Curtain fell in Czechoslovakia.

“The current school was born out of a conversation between former British Foreign Minister William Waldegrave and former Czech President Václav Havel,” Nigel explains. The idea was simple yet powerful: to bring British-style education to Prague and educate young Czech people with an international mindset.

“I was interested in being part of a project set up after the Cold War to make sure that it couldn’t happen again,” shares Senior Deputy Head, Tony Emmerson. ”In 2007, the Cold War felt a lot closer than it does today. So at that time, it was one of the main incentives for me.”

What Does the English College in Prague Stand for?

“The relationships between the students and the teachers, between the parents and us, and between the parents and their sons and daughters – those are essential.”

Nigel Brown, Headmaster

At the heart of ECP, it’s the strong bonds that really stand out. This isn’t a place where it’s all about homework and report cards. It’s about teachers and students really getting each other, respecting each other’s views, and building something more than just a typical classroom relationship.

Nigel puts it clearly, “The ECP is a liberal school founded on a liberal tradition. There’s a familiarity between the teachers and the students, which means that nobody’s on edge when talking to each other.”

In addition to great relationships with students, the school also promotes positive relationships with parents and among the teachers themselves. “I enjoy working in an environment where relationships are valued. It makes for an overall more pleasant working atmosphere,” confirms Glenn Bleaks, Senior Tutor – Aqua, Head of French, Teacher of TOK.

Talking with the staff made it obvious that joining ECP means being part of something exciting and dynamic. “We’re looking for open-minded people who try to understand the context and think, ‘Yes, this context is right for me; this school has values that I share.’ People that sign up for an adventure and are able to live with the ups and downs that adventure brings are the type that we would like to work with,” shares Nigel.

The ECP Experience – More Than Just a Workplace

Meet one of the fresh faces on the ECP faculty team as she shares her unique experiences and discoveries at ECP: Cat Morgan, the new Head of Drama. She comes from a rich background as a Drama Teacher and Assistant Housemistress at Scotland’s oldest boarding school. Post-Covid, Cat was on the lookout for a new adventure.

“I was looking for a change after the 24-7 commitment of the boarding school. Discovering the job in Prague felt like fate. What really drew me to ECP was the sense of community and support.”

“The human resources staff have been incredibly supportive. For instance, when I broke my foot, Anna from HR was right there with me at the clinic, ensuring I wasn’t alone in navigating the healthcare system. This level of care and support is not something you often find in the international teaching community.”

“Here, everyone looks out for each other, which was evident when colleagues helped me while I was incapacitated. It’s a big family where everyone has your back.”

Explore What ECP Can Offer You

Wrapping up our walk through the English College in Prague, it’s clear that this place is more than just a school. ECP blends British-style education with a strong sense of community.

We’ve heard from Nigel, Tony, Glenn, and Cat, each sharing their part of ECP’s story. It’s a place where relationships matter, where learning goes beyond books, and where everyone gets the support they need.

Helping ECP create its recruitment booklet was a fantastic opportunity that let me see up close how special this school is. It’s a place where teachers and students really connect and grow together.

Whether you’re a teacher looking for a meaningful place to work, a parent hunting for a great school for your kid, or just someone who loves being part of a caring community, ECP has something for you.

Why not take a closer look? ECP isn’t just about excellent education; it’s about being part of a family that’s ready to welcome you.

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