Quick summary of key school information
School details
| Number of students |
140 |
| Number of nationalities represented in the school |
30 |
| Most common nationality |
Czech (local students) |
| Ratio of local students to international students |
30:70 |
| Native English speaking teachers |
All teachers are either native or fluent English speakers, and all foreign language teachers are native speakers or fluent in the languages they teach. |
| Language support for students not fluent in English |
Yes, we offer additional English language support (ESL programme). |
| Additional language classes offered by the school |
French, German, Spanish, and Czech. Additional tuition is sometimes offered in other languages (such as Arabic, Mandarin, and Portuguese) depending on student interest. |
| Max. number of students per class |
15 |
| Average number of students per class |
7 |
| Does the school employ teaching assistants? |
Yes |
| Use of technology in the classroom |
Technology is used for research, classwork, and project-based learning both during and outside of classes. Students have access to tablets and a computer lab, as well as equipment such as cameras and microphones that can be used for student projects and extracurricular initiatives. Several classrooms are fitted with interactive whiteboards (smart boards). |
| Is the school ready to use virtual classrooms when needed? (e.g. teaching lessons online during emergencies) |
We are prepared to use virtual classroom technology, which is offered to students who are unable to be with us in-person (for example, due to Covid-19 quarantines, or while waiting for their visa). |
| Do students practice religion at the school? What religion? |
Townshend is a Baha'i-inspired school. We welcome students and faculty of any faith and religious backgrounds, and students and faculty of no faith or religious background. |
| How does the school accommodate non-religious students or students of a different religion? |
Each student is supported in the expression and exploration of their faith, and there is a culture of acceptance toward others of all or no religious background. |
| External examinations or assessments available |
IGCSE and A Levels accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education. |
| Do teachers assign homework to their students? |
Yes |
| Approximate hours of homework given |
The exact amount of time varies depending on the student's year level. Residential students have a designated "Study Hall" each evening for approximately 1.5 - 2 hours. Teachers and assistants are often available during this time to offer tutoring and homework support. |
| Percentage of students who pursue further education post-graduation |
We are small school, so we do not calculate specific percentages for student destinations. However, the majority of our students do attend a higher educational institution (university) after graduating. |
| Dedicated staff/programs for students with special learning needs |
Yes, we have a dedicated team of specialised staff who support students with their academic and personal needs. |
| Learning support offered |
Students benefit from school counsellors, a SENCo (Special Educational Needs Coordinator), and an educational psychologist. Students are supported through individual appointments where their needs, strengths, and potential strategies for growth are discussed. The wellbeing team liaises with other staff as needed, to ensure that all teachers and faculty are best able to support each student. |
| The school supports gifted, able and talented students |
Students benefit from plenty of 1-1 contact with teachers, who provide insight, guidance, and personalised tuition to help each student learn in the best way for them. Emphasis is placed on project-based learning, giving students the opportunity to challenge themselves in stepping beyond the class material while working on their projects. Peer-learning is encouraged, allowing students to solidify their subject knowledge through coaching and supporting classmates and students in younger years. |
| Student access to education psychologist |
Students have access to a school counsellor and psychologist, who provide support with academic and personal matters that may affect the student's wellbeing and attainment. |
| Entry evaluation for students |
Each applicant is assessed individually, based on the information provided in the application form. On their arrival, students sit placement exams in English and Maths to identify which class they should attend, and to highlight any extra support they could benefit from. |
| Brief description of entry evaluation required |
Students are evaluated based on their responses given in the Townshend Application Form (taking into account their capacity to meet the academic demands of their grade, and the expectations outlined in the Townshend Code of Conduct), and following consultation with parents and themselves as needed. |
| Waiting list |
We review and process applications on a rolling basis throughout the school year. Parents are encouraged to apply early, as some grades may have a waiting list. |
| Deadline for registration (new academic year) |
We review and process applications on a rolling basis throughout the school year. |
| Students can join after academic year begins |
Yes |
| School start time |
8.00 |
| School finish time |
15.50 |
| Supervised care before/after school |
Supervised care (After School Club) is available for students in younger years. Older students can attend extracurricular activities after school, or may spend time with residential students in the dormitories. |
| School bus service available |
We have school cars and minibuses used for excursions. |
| School provided lunches |
Lunch is provided for students each day, and includes homemade hot dishes, salads and soups. |
| Food alternatives for special dietary needs (ie. vegan, kosher, halal etc) |
Yes, the school kitchen provides alternative food items depending on each student's dietary requirements. |
| Uniform required |
Yes |
| Extracurricular activities or clubs offered |
We are lucky to have a diverse and committed team of teachers & faculty who do their best to support students in discovering, pursuing and developing their unique interests. Some recent extracurricular activities can be found on our webpage here: https://www.townshend.cz/life |
| Sports activities included |
Each students participates in weekly PE classes. Residential students participate in additional sports activities on at least two afternoons each week. |
| Sports teams or sport competitions available for students |
In recent years Townshend students have competed in basketball and football competitions. Some students are also enrolled in local sports teams, and their regular training is supported by school staff who can drive students and support them during competitions. |
| Facilities at the school |
Students benefit from a library; computer lab; science labs; drama, music and arts studios; quiet areas and prayer rooms; assembly room (which is converted for school theatre and arts productions); and a senior study room. |
| Sports facilities at the school |
Outdoor play area, football field, basketball/volleyball court, tennis court. More facilities (cycling, hiking, golf, swimming, ice hockey, baseball, gym and high-ropes) are available in the local area. |
| Grades/ages available for boarding |
Boarding is available from age 13 to graduation. |
| Boarding facilities at the school |
There are two dormitories on the school campus, each containing kitchens, study & games rooms, laundry facilities, and prayer/meditation rooms. Every bedroom has an en-suit bathroom with a shower. Townshend has a full time team of residential staff, who support students in developing social, emotional, and life skills, and who provide a programme of activities after school and on weekends. |
| Qualities and characteristics best defining the school |
Townshend International School is an independent English residential and day school, located opposite Hluboka castle in beautiful South Bohemia. Townshend students benefit from a close and supportive community, a safe and well-connected location, and passionate teachers who work hard to unlock the capabilities of each student. Students graduate with Cambridge International A Levels, which are accepted and respected by universities throughout the world. |
| Teaching approach of the school |
Students receive lots of 1-1 support and attention from teachers. This allows teachers to support students in developing healthy learning and study habits, and makes it possible for teachers to tailor their teaching method to best meet the individual learning needs of their students. Teaching and learning is inspiring. Students are encouraged in discovering and pursuing their interests and finding their passions; and to apply what they have learned to the real world, through projects, community service, practical work, and school trips. We help students develop a moral character, an emotional awareness, and essential virtues such as Honour, Respect, Responsibility, Leadership, and Commitment. |