Director's Response
Q: Can you tell me a little about the school and what it aims to achieve?
A: Townshend International School is an independent international school located in the heart of South Bohemia, surrounded by beautiful forests and lakes. We offer the Cambridge International curriculum to students from over 30 countries, ranging from ages 3 to 19.
While many international schools emphasize strong academics, university success, a well-rounded co-curricular program, global citizenship, and character development, what makes Townshend unique is its guiding principles and the values that shape every aspect of school life.
One of our core beliefs is that education should nurture not just intellectual growth but also personal development. We focus on creating an environment where students can develop qualities such as integrity, empathy, and a commitment to service—essential traits for making a meaningful impact in the world.
Vivek Williams
School Director
Townshend International School
Townshend International School Campus, Hluboka nad Vltavou, Czech Republic
Q: How would you describe the students who attend Townshend?
A: Rather than saying we ‘produce’ students, we see our role as providing the right environment for young people to develop their unique potential. Just as an acorn contains everything needed to become a mighty oak, each student already has untold potential within them. Our mission is to support their growth by fostering a nurturing and inspiring atmosphere.
One of our graduates put it beautifully:
“Townshend helped me see something within myself that I did not know was there.”
Q: Where do the students come from?
A: Our student body is exceptionally diverse, with students having come from over 108 different countries. While many hail from neighboring European nations, we also have students from North and South America, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.
But diversity at Townshend goes beyond nationality. Our school community includes students from different cultural, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds. We actively encourage this mix, and most families hear about us through word of mouth.
Students at Townshend International School
Q: What are some of the advantages and unique opportunities the school offers compared to other educational institutions?
A: Townshend is more than just a school—it’s a close-knit community. There are no rigid social groups or cliques, and we place great importance on ensuring that every student feels emotionally secure and free to be themselves.
The result is a truly interconnected, international community. Students visit each other across the globe during school breaks, continue their friendships into university, and even collaborate professionally later in life. This sense of connection and lifelong support is one of the most valuable aspects of the Townshend experience.
Q: What message would you like to share with parents and students?
A: For parents, choosing the right educational environment is one of the most significant decisions you can make for your child. Many parents who send their children to Townshend say they notice a positive transformation, often telling us that they communicate more with their child via video calls than they did when living under the same roof - and develop closer and stronger bonds.
For students, we invite you to imagine your life at Townshend. Explore our website, visit the section "About us", and picture yourself in an environment that values both academic and personal growth.
And for everyone—come and see for yourself! We warmly welcome visitors to spend a couple of days on campus, meet our students and teachers, and experience firsthand what makes Townshend such a special place.