Our story
The owners of Fostra have a wealth of experience in the education sector, with over 20 years of successful projects. They previously owned and managed EDUA Group, the largest educational group in the Czech Republic, which included companies such as Tutor, Top Vision, and Caledonian School. They also established the largest private university in the Czech Republic, AMBIS.
They also own and operate four private high schools: Fostra Aspira – a general high school, Fostra International – a Czech-English high school, Fostra Europea – a European high school, and Fostra Pontia – a Czech-Ukrainian high school.
Fostra Elementary is a school that will guide your child towards a happy and successful future.
PhDr. Jan Voda, Ph.D., MBA
Fostra Elementary principal
I am a person with a vision, and I am not afraid of challenges. When the curriculum reform began in 2004, I immediately saw an opportunity for the Czech education system. Since then, I have dedicated all my efforts to building a school where both teachers and students feel comfortable, and where they acquire skills and knowledge that can be applied in the digital world of the 21st century.
I believe in a future where school is not just a place for imparting knowledge, but a place that reflects life itself – with all its joys and challenges. Every child needs the certainty that the world awaiting them is full of opportunities. In school, they gain the key to this world through self-confidence, courage, and responsibility. I am convinced that every child has the potential to succeed if we provide them with the space to grow and help them discover their own abilities
At Fostra Elementary, we stand by this mission. It is the path that has been mine for half of my life, and here is where I want to fully apply my experiences and wisdom
My Journey:
21 years as the principal of three primary schools
8 years as an academic staff member
5 years as a teacher at all levels of primary and secondary education
6 years as the leader of a children's club
Certified as a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert
Twice a finalist at the Global Teacher Forum (Seattle 2015, Singapore 2018)
Finalist for the Global Teacher Prize Czech Republic 2018
Winner of the "Principal of the Year 2024" award
Author of a book, regular contributor to educational journals, speaker at conferences and workshops
MBA in Educational Management
Doctorate in Pedagogy
Graduate in Primary Education Teaching
Throughout my career, I have received dozens of thank-you letters and references from parents, students, and colleagues. In every school I have led, there has been a significant improvement, which was also confirmed by the Czech School Inspectorate.
At our school, we create an authentic bilingual environment that naturally develops both the Czech and English languages. We believe that the ability to communicate in two languages opens doors to the world for our students. In addition, we place great emphasis on safety and respect – a healthy, safe, and respectful environment with an individual approach to education is key for us.
In our classrooms, we have three teachers who, through a well-developed methodology and project-based learning, help to unlock the potential of our students. I see how the students grow not only academically but also personally, which is incredibly fulfilling for me. Their questions often lead me to new perspectives, enriching me and encouraging me to think differently. I, too, am constantly learning.
We prepare our students for the 21st century by fostering their critical thinking, creativity, and other essential skills needed in the digital world.