Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Our team

Elementary school management

Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Martina Olivová, founder, managing director

I built a school where education makes sense – for children, teachers, and parents.

My story

  • In 2004, I had completed my university studies at the Faculty of Economics and spent ten years working in marketing and strategic consulting for international companies. I knew what skills people really needed at work – and at the same time, I saw how far behind traditional education was. When I was looking for a school for my own children, I couldn’t find one that would prepare them for real life. So, driven by a desire to create a place where children could learn with joy, respect, and meaning, I first founded the Magic Hill preschool and then, two years later, an elementary school. Along the way, I completed a number of courses in personal development, pedagogy, psychology, critical thinking, and leadership training. I am also involved in charitable projects and am a long-term partner of the Cystic Fibrosis Club and a member of the board of directors of the public benefit organization Právě teď! (Right Now!).

What I offer

  • I stand behind the vision of a school that develops not only knowledge but also character. I am building a team of people who share values such as respect, trust, and mutual cooperation. 
  • I offer children a school that prepares them for life. I give teachers room for growth, stability, and a friendly environment. I give parents the assurance that their child is in a school that makes sense.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Alena Miklová, Director of Pre-school and Elementary School

I am the head of a school where children and teachers learn with joy, respect, and a vision for the future.

My story

  • For me, education is a way to change the world—through children, teachers, and school culture.
  • I studied primary school teaching at Palacký University and English at Akcent College. During my teaching career, I have taught at both primary and secondary levels, dedicated myself to extracurricular activities, and worked as a teacher trainer. I studied primary school teaching at Palacký University and English at Akcent College. During my teaching career, I have taught at both primary and secondary levels, devoted myself to special education, and completed a number of professional courses in critical thinking, Montessori pedagogy, and Hejny mathematics, which have helped me to better understand children and their needs. In 2023, I also completed a one-year course in mentoring for teachers at the Libchavy Academy and an MBA, which opened up new horizons for me in the field of leadership and strategic management. I joined Magic Hill in 2018, gradually becoming a senior teacher, deputy headmistress, and since 2024, I have been running the primary and nursery school as headmistress.

What I offer

  • I offer a school that combines quality education with a human approach. I lead a team of teachers to be true guides for children, I support balanced teaching that builds on important knowledge foundations and soft skills, and I constantly seek ways to improve and innovate.
  • I offer children a safe environment for growth and the opportunity to experience success, teachers inspiration and support in fulfilling a shared vision, and parents the assurance that their child is in good hands—in an environment where they become creative and confident individuals ready to learn throughout their lives.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Kateřina Nytrová, Deputy director

I help children discover their strengths and learn with joy, curiosity, and self-confidence.

My story

  • Ever since studying at the Faculty of Social Sciences at Charles University, I have been interested in how education shapes people. I knew that I wanted to teach in a way that makes sense to children and allows them to grow not only in knowledge but also in character. I have taken a number of courses that have enriched me with new perspectives on teaching and children’s learning. I completed an intensive two-year program called Učitel naživo (Teacher Live), which was a major shift for me—teaching with respect, partnership, and reflection. In my practice, I worked at both the primary and secondary levels of elementary school and in kindergarten. I also led a scout troop, where I learned how important it is to build teamwork and trust. I joined Magic Hill in 2017, and since then I have found space for creative and meaningful teaching that combines the joy of learning with personal development.

What I offer

  • I teach with respect, perspective, and openness towards children and new ideas. I build on each child’s individual strengths, develop critical thinking, and support skills that children will use in everyday life—cooperation, self-reflection, and communication.
  • Your child will receive support from me in finding their path and the courage to be themselves. I give parents the assurance that their child is in the hands of a teacher who genuinely cares about and understands them.

Teachers, assistants, and educators

Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Anna Bártová, Teaching Assistant

With a kind and empathetic approach, I strive to find the right educational path for every student.

My Story

  • I earned my degree in Primary School Teaching from the Faculty of Education at Charles University. While still a student, I successfully completed my final teaching practicum at Magic Hill School in 2015. After returning from England, where I worked as an au pair and also volunteered at Liphook Highfield School and Brookham School, joining Magic Hill was both a dream come true and a challenge for me.
  • In September 2017, I became a homeroom teacher for the first time, and I have been working with Magic Hill ever since. After my first few years as a beginning teacher, I gained valuable experience and subsequently focused on further education in the field of reading. I have completed courses on Strategies for Promoting Reading Literacy in Elementary School, Teacher Communication Skills, Teamwork, Well-being in Practice, Teacher-Family Collaboration, Teaching for Real Life, Literature for Children and Youth, Developing Reading Literacy—Reading Comprehension, and many others.

What I Offer

  • With a smile, but also with clearly defined rules, I create a pleasant atmosphere in the classroom, which I enjoy enriching with team activities, music, movement, and reading aloud.
  • As a teaching assistant, I offer a respectful and supportive approach, a safe environment, and the opportunity to learn at one’s own pace.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Anežka Blaščík, teacher of Global world

I want to show children that understanding the world means knowing how to ask questions, listen, and think.

My Story

  • I earned a degree in teaching with a focus on pedagogy and the fundamentals of the social sciences, and subsequently also a degree in Educational Management from the Faculty of Education at Charles University. During my studies, I spent half a year in Finland, where I learned about the local education system and school reform. From the very beginning of my professional journey, I have been looking for ways to create lessons that are meaningful, foster curiosity, and guide children toward independent thinking. I gained my experience as an instructor and author of educational activities at Scio, as well as through my many years of leading a Scout troop. I have also completed a number of professional courses, including MBTI personality typology, “Respect and Be Respected,” the AI Masterclass, and “Effective Classroom Interactions.”

What I Offer

  • In my classes, I create an environment where children can think, discuss, and explore connections safely, without fear of asking questions. I want them to understand the world around them, be able to form their own opinions, and at the same time respect the perspectives of others.
  • I offer parents open communication and the assurance that I will guide their child not only toward acquiring knowledge, but also toward developing responsibility, critical thinking, and an interest in the world in which they live.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Laura Botsis, English Teacher, STEM in English teacher

In my teaching, I combine English and science to stimulate curiosity and develop critical thinking.

My story

  • In 2007, I graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a degree in psychology and education, and since 2009, I have been teaching at elementary schools, including Worcester Public Schools. I completed postgraduate studies in science education (STEM). I joined Magic Hill in 2016 because I was attracted to its educational vision, which is close to my heart. During my time here, in addition to teaching English, I have focused on creating lesson plans and methodologies and on connecting language and STEM education in interesting and meaningful ways.

What I offer

  • I create lessons that encourage creativity, collaboration, and a love of learning. I offer children meaningful experiences that connect language and the world. I offer parents the assurance that their child will learn a foreign language with joy and individual attention.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Mike Burgess, English teacher, teacher of an elective crafts course

With respect and trust, I guide children on their unique journey of growth, discovery, and self-awareness.

My story

  • I graduated from The New England Institute of Art in Boston, Massachusetts in 2008. Early childhood education found me when I relocated to The Czech Republic in 2010, and began working at a Montessori school in Prague. In 2014, I completed a two year course in early childhood Montessori pedagogy and received an associates diploma accredited by American Montessori Society. It’s been a great privilege to have experienced fifteen years as a guide and to have the opportunities to build empathy, practice emotional regulation, develop teamwork, and share my passions daily.

 What I offer

  • Dedication to cultivating a safe, inspiring environment where every child feels valued, confident, and curious about the world around them.
  • Grounded in a holistic approach to education, fostering cognitive, academic, emotional, physical, and social development in equal measure.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Zuzana Červená, class teacher, Senior teacher for grades 1 and 2

I teach with my heart, head, and experience, believing that life itself is the best teacher.

My story

  • I am a graduate of the Faculty of Education at Charles University in Prague, specializing in teaching for the 1st grade with a focus on music education. During my studies, I worked as a teacher at a school with extended language teaching, where I continued to work as a teacher for four years after graduating. In addition to teaching, I led a flute club and collaborated on the creation of teaching aids for children with disabilities. I have completed a number of seminars, such as Critical Thinking, the Hejny Method, Working with Errors in Czech Language Lessons, Starting Together, and a Course for Teachers in Leadership Roles at the Libchavy Academy. I have been working at Magic Hill since 2019 as a class teacher, and I am currently also the head teacher for grades 1 and 2.

What I offer

  • As the head teacher for the first and second grades, I focus on making the start of school as pleasant as possible for children and their parents. I offer children support, understanding, and an environment in which they are not afraid to learn new things. I show them that mistakes are opportunities for growth.

Klára Daňková, psychologist, crisis intervention specialist

I help children, parents, and teachers cope with challenging situations in life and at school.

My Story

  • I studied psychology at the Faculty of Arts at Charles University. During my studies, I completed professional internships in Spain and Mexico, which allowed me to learn about different approaches to psychological work. I completed training in crisis intervention and other specialized courses focused on psychological assessment of children and therapeutic work.
  • I gained professional experience as a psychologist at an educational-psychological counseling center, in a psychiatric hospital, and as a psychologist in the healthcare sector. I have also served as an adjunct lecturer in school psychology at Charles University and train educators on topics such as well-being, school psychology, and communication. I have led therapy groups for children with anxiety or behavioral difficulties.

What I Offer

  • I offer children a safe space to cope with anxiety, emotions, challenging life situations, and difficulties at school.
  • I help parents better understand their children’s needs and work with them to find ways to support their children both at home and at school.
  • I offer teachers support in working with individual children and entire classes, as well as consultations on challenging situations, communication, well-being, and classroom management.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Kristýna Daňková, teacher of culture and art, teacher of Global world  

I believe that culture is a bridge between worlds – it connects people, develops creativity, and promotes understanding of oneself and others.

My story

  • I studied social and media communication at Jan Amos Komenský University and English for foreigners at Oakland’s College. I am currently studying at the Faculty of Education at J. E. Purkyně University, specializing in primary school teaching and special education. I have experience with leisure and scout programs for children as well as tutoring, where I learned how important it is to treat every child with respect and understanding. I have been involved in dance and art my whole life, which I consider a natural part of education and personal growth. I have been part of the Magic Hill team since 2022.

What I offer

  • In my teaching, I connect culture, art, and the world around us—I encourage students to develop their creativity, cooperation, and ability to express their opinions. In my lessons, I strive to ensure that children not only learn about culture, but also experience it and discover themselves through it.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Justin Dippenaar, English teacher

Teaching is not about filling minds, but about awakening them. I try to understand each child as an individual and strive to help them grow not only as students, but also as people.

My story

  • My professional career began far from education. After graduating from the South African Institute of Technology in 2006, I worked in mechanical engineering for eight years. In 2014, I made the life-changing decision to follow my passion for education and human development. I obtained a TEFL certificate and have been teaching English as a second language ever since.
  • For the past seven years, in addition to language development, I have specialized in preparing students for Cambridge exams and developing their soft skills. I am also a certified neurolinguistic coach. I am constantly expanding my knowledge of neuroscience, cognitive-behavioral psychology, and child development. I have been working at Magic Hill since 2023.

What I offer

  • My interest in how the human mind works and how people learn influences my teaching style. I approach children with empathy and respect for their unique pace and potential.
  • Through English, I also help students develop critical thinking, emotional awareness, and creative abilities. I offer parents the assurance that their child is listened to and sensitively guided at school.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Nora Dušková, Teaching Assistant

Movement, creativity, and understanding are the keys that open up the world to children. When we connect the body and the mind, we can achieve great things.

My story:

  • From an early age, I was drawn to movement, nature, and art. My path to teaching was therefore entirely natural—I graduated from a pedagogical high school, where I earned my diploma in art history and art education, and I then went on to study special education with a focus on expressive approaches at Palacký University in Olomouc. For more than five years now, I’ve been actively involved in both competitive and recreational sports as a licensed climbing instructor. It’s on the climbing wall, at summer camps, and out in nature that I see every day just how closely physical activity, children’s mental well-being, emotions, and healthy self-confidence are interconnected. Working with children fulfills me because of its diversity, and I enjoy seeking out hidden potential, a sense of beauty, and aesthetic perception in everyday life and in each of my young students.

What I Offer:

  • A safe and respectful environment full of empathy and patience, where no one needs to be afraid of making a mistake, because for us, mistakes are companions on the path to learning.
  • I pride myself on taking a sensitive approach to the individual and specific needs of each child, so that I can be a reliable source of support for them in every situation.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Zuzana Farnsworth Martiš, math teacher, class teacher

I strive to make math meaningful to children, teaching with an emphasis on curiosity, logical thinking, and connecting math to the everyday world.

My story

  • I studied mathematics and chemistry education at Comenius University in Bratislava. After graduating, I gained experience with various educational systems and modern teaching methods, first in the UK and then in Australia. In 2015, I moved to Prague, where I worked as a homeroom teacher and English teacher at an international school. Since 2023, I have been working at Magic Hill as a mathematics teacher. I am happy to be part of a team that promotes respect, curiosity, and the joy of learning.

What I offer

  • I believe that the key to success is trust, a safe environment, and motivation to try new things. In my math classes, I combine thinking with creativity and playfulness. I encourage independence, cooperation, and self-confidence because I believe that every student can succeed in math if they are given the space to find their own way.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Lenka Klapková, teacher of culture and arts, teacher of Global world

Your child will find in me a space where they can create and discover the world with joy and a desire to grow for themselves, not for the sake of performance or evaluation by others.

My story

  • I am a graduate of the University of Hradec Králové, where I studied leisure education with a focus on physical education and sports, and Charles University, where I completed my master’s degree in preschool education. During my studies, I worked with children, organized summer camps, and served as a primary prevention lecturer at elementary schools. I also completed courses in Respect and Be Respected, Reading with Non-Readers and Teaching Them to Think Critically, and the Hejny Method in Pre-Mathematical Education. I have been working at Magic Hill (with a break for maternity leave) since 2018 in positions at both the preschool and elementary school.

What I offer

  • I encourage children to have the courage to create, try new things, and not be afraid of mistakes.
  • I show them the meaning of what they are learning so that they understand it, because only then can they develop their inner motivation and feel the joy of learning.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Michaela Klepalová, class teacher, social media manager

I believe that every child is unique and gifted in a different area. The teacher’s task is to recognize this uniqueness, develop it, and at the same time sensitively support the child even in areas where they may not find it so easy.

My story

  • From an early age, I enjoyed being around children, guiding them, and inspiring them. I studied to be a primary school teacher with a focus on physical education. Since 2012, I have also been working as a sports aerobics trainer, teaching children from the age of two to adulthood. Thanks to this experience, I know how important it is to build children’s self-confidence, perseverance, and joy in movement and in overcoming their own limits. In my free time, I tutor children who are preparing for entrance exams to multi-year high schools. I have been working at Magic Hill since 2024, and in addition to teaching, I oversee communication on social media.

What I offer

  • Your child will gain understanding and support for personal growth from me. I offer children a kind but goal-oriented approach. We learn with respect, movement, and joy. I help children not only to gain knowledge but also to build self-confidence and the ability to overcome obstacles.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Leona Krejcarová, teaching assistant, after-school club supervisor

I approach working with children with joy. Every child can turn to me at any time. I offer help and empathy, creating a creative and colorful world for them to discover.

My story

  • Although I graduated from a textile high school, I soon realized that my real passion is working with people. For more than twenty years, I worked in health and social services as a caregiver. Working there taught me patience, empathy, and the art of listening. The desire for a new challenge and to work with children led me to study a course for teaching assistants and then to work in a kindergarten, where I began to gain my first experiences and where I discovered the magic of the world of children—joy, creativity, and everyday little miracles. Since 2021, I have been working at Magic Hill in both the kindergarten and elementary school.

What I offer

  • I offer children a safe environment where they can develop at their own pace, learn to cooperate, and strengthen their self-confidence. I strive to make them enjoy going to school and feel that their efforts are meaningful.
  • I want to be a support and a solid point of reference for children, something they can rely on at any time.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Adriana Kutíková, class teacher, ICT teacher, Spanish teacher

I help children grow in an environment of trust, cooperation, and joy of discovering new things—whether at school or in the world of technology.

My story

  • Ever since studying applied ecology at the Czech University of Life Sciences, I have enjoyed combining education with discovering the world around us. I spent part of my studies in Madrid as part of the Erasmus program and gained valuable experience in an international environment. After returning, I expanded my qualifications to include preschool education and taught at the elementary school level for several years. I have completed a number of professional courses – from reading literacy (Reading and Writing for Critical Thinking, SFUMATO) to innovative foreign language teaching to digital skills and peer mentoring. I am also involved in informal education – I am a summer camp lecturer and ski instructor. Since 2023, I have been part of the Magic Hill team, where I try to introduce children to the world of technology in a meaningful and insightful way.

What I offer

  • In my teaching, I combine modern technology with creativity and a responsible approach. I show children that the digital world is a tool, not a goal – and that they develop most when they combine knowledge, skills, and critical thinking.
  • I base my work in the classroom on respect, mutual understanding, and humor. I guide children toward independence and a willingness to participate in common goals.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Nikola Pecharová, class teacher

I give children space to grow – with understanding, patience, and the joy of discovery.

My story

  • Even in high school, I knew that I didn’t want to sit in an office, but rather work with children – be part of their world, help them discover their strengths, and support them on their journey forward. That’s why I chose to study special education at Jan Amos Komenský University and then continued with a master’s degree in leisure education at the University of South Bohemia.
  • I gained experience in elementary schools and kindergartens, as well as by leading a gymnastics club. I joined Magic Hill in 2023 because I was drawn to its approach based on respect, creativity, and the joy of learning, which is close to my heart.

What I offer

  • I hold several positions at Magic Hill, which allows me to be close to the children in many situations, helping them build friendships while being themselves and growing in line with their potential.
  • I develop children’s imagination, creativity, and courage to express themselves through art, music, and movement. I believe that art opens the door for children to discover themselves and brings them joy from creating and exploring the world around them.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Aleš Pelikán, science and physical education teacher

I believe that school can be a place where children discover the world in motion and context. That’s why I combine theory with real-life experiences in my lessons.

My story

  • I am a graduate of the Faculty of Education at the University of South Bohemia, where I studied geography and physical education with a focus on education. I have been a teacher since 2017 – I have worked at a high school and a vocational school, led school trips and ski courses, and as a running coach, I have motivated children and adults to take up a sport that develops both the body and character. My long-standing passion is traveling and learning about different cultures, nature, and ways of life. I bring these experiences into my teaching so that students can perceive the world in a broader context and learn with openness and respect. I have been working at Magic Hill since 2024, where I embark on a journey of discovery with children.

What I offer

  • I provide children with lessons that combine theory with practice and inspire discovery. In addition to gaining knowledge in the natural sciences, I motivate them to work as a team, persevere, and enjoy physical activity.
  • I offer parents the assurance that their child is learning joyfully and in context.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Adriana Píchová, class teacher, teacher of Natural science

I see learning as a journey on which children and adults transform each other – they learn about the world, they learn about others, and they learn about themselves.

My story

  • I graduated with a master’s degree in biology and pedagogy from the Faculty of Education at Charles University in Prague, where I deepened my knowledge of natural sciences and the principles of modern pedagogy. Working in a kindergarten and at the 1st and 2nd grades of elementary school allowed me to gain insight into the education of children at different stages of their development. Working in a forest children’s club and leading a natural science research club enriched me with a natural, respectful approach and a deeper sensitivity to the individual needs of children – including those who need special support. I see learning as a means of personal growth, which is why I seek new ways to make learning accessible to children so that it is understandable, meaningful, and joyful for them.

What I offer

  • I provide children with a kind and stimulating environment where they can feel safe, develop their curiosity, and find joy in discovery. I believe that children’s genuine interest stems from the right motivation—from the search for meaning in an environment based on safety and confidence in their own abilities.
  • I offer parents open communication, mutual trust, and cooperation that helps children grow into confident, responsible, and happy individuals.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Kateřina Prachařová, class teacher, teacher of Czech language and Media and journalism

I treat children and my colleagues the way I would like them to treat themselves and the world around them. With trust, respect, empathy, and humor.

My story

  • I always knew that my profession would revolve around the Czech language and literature. I studied Czech language and literature at the Faculty of Arts of Charles University and gained experience in various media outlets while still a student. Eventually, I settled down for several years at Czech Radio. I saw journalism as my dream job, one with great social significance and meaning. However, after the birth of my children, I was looking for a new direction, and teaching attracted me like a magnet. So I completed my teaching education and joined Magic Hill in 2022. In addition, I also edit books, professional journals, and teaching materials, and I have also participated in the creation of didactic tests for the Czech language final exam. In my role as head teacher of the second stage, I want to create an environment for children and colleagues where adults and students trust each other, treat each other with friendship and respect, and are able to cooperate and support each other.

What I offer

  • In today’s world, where children spend so much time online and English is coming at them from all sides, I offer my students time to show them the beauty of their native language, especially in its purely written form. Its richness and diversity, how a single letter, comma, or slight change in word order can transform the meaning of an entire message.
  • I try to pass on my love of books to them and show them that literature is not boring. At the same time, I try to make them understand that language is not just about rules, but that it is a way of expressing ourselves.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Tereza Richterová, class teacher, Senior teacher for grades 3–5

I believe that true education is not only about knowledge, but also about developing skills that help children understand, adapt, and thrive in today’s dynamic world.

My story

  • I studied primary school teaching with a focus on English at the Faculty of Education at Charles University. During my studies, I took part in an Erasmus exchange program in Joensuu, Finland, which opened my eyes to new perspectives on education. After graduating, I passed the C1 language exam at the Wimbledon School of English in London and taught English at a language school, where I worked with both children and adults. For eleven years, I worked at a primary school under the auspices of the Prague British International School, where I gained valuable experience teaching in an international environment. I have been part of the Magic Hill team since 2022.

What I offer

  • I offer children an environment where they feel safe, can learn with joy, and discover their strengths. I strive to foster good relationships between children based on respect and mutual support. 
  • I offer parents support and cooperation during their children’s school journey.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Kristýna Řeháková, class teacher, physical education teacher, school prevention methodologist

I help children find the courage to overcome obstacles, accept challenges, and push their own boundaries—both physically and mentally.

My story

  • I am a graduate of the Faculty of Physical Education and Sport at Charles University, specializing in coaching and teaching. For many years, I worked as a coach for the Czech national team and youth in skibob racing. I am a graduate of a specialised study programme in school prevention methods. I have completed four years of psychotherapy training and training in counselling and therapeutic skills. After eleven years in marketing at a multinational company, I decided to change direction and devote myself to what really matters to me – children and experiential learning.
  • I joined Magic Hill in 2018. Here, I combine my experience in sports, psychology, and personal development.

What I offer

  • Your child will receive support from me that will enable them to grow not only physically but also internally – they will learn to work with their emotions, cope with challenges, and develop relationships with respect and empathy.
  • I provide children with a safe space to grow, where they can make mistakes, explore, and try new things. I offer parents openness, cooperation, and a partnership approach in finding ways for their child to fully develop their potential.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Kamila Říhová, teaching assistant, special education teacher, after-school club supervisor

I help children discover their uniqueness, strengthen their strengths, and cope with certain limitations. I believe that even small steps forward are big victories.

My story

  • Educating children with respect and understanding is my mission. I studied special education – childcare at Jan Amos Komenský University, where I specialized in speech therapy and deaf education. During my studies, I worked with preschool children in a nursery center and later worked as a teacher at a special elementary school, where I led speech therapy courses. In my master’s studies, I focused on special education and teaching children with special educational needs. I also gained experience working with children with specific learning disabilities and participated in projects aimed at supporting socially disadvantaged children and children with special educational needs in children’s homes and low-threshold centers. Since 2024, I have been working at Magic Hill, where I can combine my expertise in special education with the school’s respectful approach.

What I offer

  • I provide children with individual support, time, respect, and understanding of their needs, as well as calm guidance that helps them discover their own abilities.
  • In the team, I try to be a link between teachers, children, and parents—with open communication and a willingness to listen. I bring a combination of expertise, empathy, and playfulness to the school, which helps children feel confident and learn with joy.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Bethany Scharnowske, English teacher, Senior teacher for English team

My love for children led me from psychology to education. I am an enthusiastic teacher, and my lessons inspire joy and enthusiasm.

My story

  • I studied psychology at Indiana University and obtained a TESOL certificate. After several years as a crisis worker in families and working in child protection programs, I realized that teaching allows me to combine caring for children’s emotional growth with my passion for languages and communication.
  • Since 2008, I have been teaching English in Prague at language schools and as a private tutor, working with students ranging from young children to adults. Over the years, I have prepared many students for international English exams. I joined Magic Hill in 2021 because I share the same values—a creative environment where real relationships can be formed and where every child feels supported.

What I offer

  • I help children build a solid language foundation while developing self-confidence and curiosity.
  • I offer them lessons that are joyful and supportive, where mistakes are part of growth and every success is celebrated.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Marie Šubrtová, class teacher

I encourage children to feel confident and independent creators of their own learning in a safe classroom environment.

My story

  • I graduated from the Faculty of Education at Charles University, majoring in primary school teaching with a specialization in drama education, which showed me how powerful experience is in learning. As a class teacher at a school in Prague and a teaching assistant in the UK, I have seen that children grow the most when they have the trust of their teacher and the space to create their own path. I draw on a number of courses I have completed—Critical Thinking, MBTI Personality Typology, Reading Workshops, and Drama Education—which help me better understand how children think. My experience in organizing leisure and sports programs has taught me how to build team spirit and work with motivation. I have been working at Magic Hill since 2021 because I share its belief that school can be a place of joyful and meaningful learning.

What I offer

  • I offer children a safe environment where they feel accepted and are not afraid to try new things. I use drama education and experiential learning to develop creativity, communication, and empathy.
  • I believe that cooperation with parents is the key to a child’s success in school.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Iveta Vojtěchová, class teacher, special educator

Every child is a unique world. I help children discover their strengths and teach them in a way that makes learning a joy.

My story

  • I am a graduate of the bachelor’s program in special education at Jan Amos Komenský University and have long worked as a primary school teacher and special educator. I have gained experience in both public and private education, including as an after-school club leader, leisure activities coordinator, and teaching assistant. I joined Magic Hill in 2021 and share its belief that school should be a place where children feel safe, respected, and motivated to learn about the world.

What I offer

  • I use the principles of special education and an individual approach to help each child reach their full potential.
  • I emphasize positive motivation, open communication, and creative learning.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Jaroslava Vokurková, class teacher, German teacher, teacher of Finance and banking

There are people who make the world a more beautiful place. We call them children. And that is why I believe in working with them every day, which gives meaning to my life.

My story

  • I originally studied economics and German, and for several years I worked in management positions in business while also teaching German privately. Gradually, however, I felt that my path was leading elsewhere—to children and education. I started teaching at a language school and later became a first-grade teacher at a bilingual elementary school.
  • I have completed a number of professional courses focused on primary education, innovative teaching methods, reading literacy, and critical thinking. I am also committed to promoting a positive classroom environment. I am trained in school mediation and conflict resolution among students. I collaborate with the Učíme se venku (We Learn Outside) project and with organizations that support children’s wellbeing, a safe classroom environment, and equal opportunities for children from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. I have been working at Magic Hill since 2023 and I see this school as an environment where the change that many are calling for is already happening, and where children thrive thanks to smaller classes, outdoor learning, projects, and teamwork.

What I offer

  • I offer children an environment full of trust and support that leads them to creativity and discovery. I strive to be a teacher who inspires.
  • I give parents the assurance that I see their child as a unique individual and help them grow not only in knowledge but also in character.
Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.

Eva Zemanová, Head of after school programme, Teaching Assistant

I create a safe and stimulating environment for children where they feel respected and can grow with joy and curiosity.

My story

  • I am a graduate of Charles University in the field of social pedagogy. I have long been involved in supporting children with specific educational needs, especially those with learning disabilities and speech therapy difficulties. I am a qualified speech therapist assistant and work according to Prof. Elkonin’s method, which I combine in my work with preschool children and younger school-age children. I previously led children’s groups and worked in a school counseling facility, which gave me valuable experience in managing and organizing childcare. I have completed a number of professional courses focused on education and childcare, such as Instrumental Enrichment according to Prof. Feuerstein, a speech therapy assistant course, a course on language skills according to Prof. Elkonin, and a course on occupational therapy when working with children.

What I offer

  • I give children individual support and sensitive guidance, and I build relationships in which they can grow at their own pace.
  • I see parents as partners and rely on open and regular communication, which allows us to work together to find the best ways to develop each child.

The team that grows together with the children

Our team - Magic Hill - Škola, kde rosteme spolu.