Are you contemplating making a move to Thailand with your family? Many tourists visit Thailand on vacation and are eager to plant their roots and call the Land of Smiles home.
The expat community is growing rapidly, so if you’re feeling inspired to make a permanent move, it’s more common than you think.
Thailand’s affordability, warm climate, and beautiful culture make it an exceptionally desirable place to live.
When you move as a family, one of your biggest concerns is ensuring your child has the best education possible. Thailand has many international schools that not only offer strong academic programs but also effectively support language learning needs.
Why International Schools Are Ideal for Expats
Education in an international school provides a transformative, multicultural experience, opening many doors for success in the future.
Some key benefits include:
- IB/British/American curriculums
These curriculums are universally recognized and focus on developing students into resilient, global, and critical thinkers. Not only do they diligently prepare students for university, but they also place heavy emphasis on a student’s overall development rather than just academics.
- Strong academic standards
The programs offered are rigorous and comprehensive, with an outstanding reputation, providing a sea of global opportunities for students. With such a high level of education, your child will be well-positioned to get into their dream school.
- Language offerings
International schools provide many exciting language opportunities, and often it’s compulsory to learn a second language, ensuring your child is a well-rounded individual ready to take on the interconnected world. Most International Schools offer the unique opportunity to learn Thai in Bangkok, which can boost your child’s confidence while living in the city.
Top 10 International Schools in Thailand
Here are the top 10 International Schools in Bangkok for you to explore:
1.Bangkok Patana School
- Location: Bangkok Patana is located on Soi Lasalle, Bangna.
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum with IGCSEs and International Baccalaureate programs.
- Ages: 2 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 525,000 up to THB 1,005,000 (approx)
- Highlights: Bangkok Patana is one of the largest and oldest British international schools in Bangkok, with a strong focus on well-being and developing global perspectives.
2.NIST International School
- Location: NIST International School is conveniently located on Soi Sukhumvit 15.
- Curriculum: International Baccalaureate (IB) framework from the Primary years to ensure students are fully prepared.
- Ages: 3 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 628,200 up to THB 1,094,500 (approx)
- Highlights: NIST International School is the first full International Baccalaureate World School, offering all three IB programs (PYP, MYP, and DP).
3.International School Bangkok (ISB)
- Location: ISB is located in Nichada Thani Village, Bangna.
- Curriculum: ISB adopts a ‘Universal Design for Learning framework’ with elements of the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Advanced Placement (AP) programs.
- Ages: 3 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 662,000 up to THB 1,184,000
- Highlights: ISB provides a challenging US-accredited and IB curriculum program and is committed to providing a nurturing environment for all students.
4.Harrow International School Bangkok
- Location: Harrow International School is located on Soi Kosum Ruam Chai 14, Don Mueang.
- Curriculum: British curriculum with IGCSE and A Level programs.
- Ages: 18 months – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 614,600 to THB 1,037,100 (approx)
- Highlights: Harrow International School is a co-educational day and boarding school with a strong academic program, including an emphasis on personal development, sports, and the arts.
5.Shrewsbury International School
- Location: Shrewsbury International School has two campuses: Riverside Campus on Charoen Krung Road and City Campus on Rim Khlong Samsen Road, Huai Kwang.
- Curriculum: English National Curriculum, offering IGCSE and A Level programs.
- Ages: 2 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 691,000 to THB 1,208,400 (approx)
- Highlights: Shrewsbury boasts a world-class education and has received numerous awards for its strong academic results.
6.Ruamrudee International School
- Location: Ruamrudee International School has two campuses: the Minburi campus and the Ratchapruek campus.
- Curriculum: American Curriculum, offering both the Advanced Placement (AP) program and the International Baccalaureate program.
- Ages: 2 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 548,400 to THB 1,442,000 (approx)
- Highlights: Ruamrudee fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and ambition with a diverse range of courses.
7.Concordian International School
- Location: Concordian International School is located on Soi Ratwinit Bangkaew, Samut Prakan
- Curriculum: They offer the full range of International Baccalaureate programs, incorporating an English-Chinese immersion in the Early and Primary years.
- Ages: 2 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English, Chinese, and Thai
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 627,400 to THB 964,400 (approx)
- Highlights: Concordian is the only fully trilingual international school and offers a unique education focused on the International Baccalaureate program.
8.Bangkok Prep International School
- Location: Bangkok Prep is located centrally in Sukhumvit.
- Curriculum: They follow the National Curriculum for England, including IGCSE and A-Level programs.
- Ages: 2 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 295,000 up to THB 821,100 (approx)
- Highlights: Recognized for its excellent academic achievements, Bangkok Prep is extremely diverse and committed to student well-being.
9.Brighton College Bangkok
- Location: Brighton College Bangkok is located on Soi Krungthep Kreetha 15, Bangkapi.
- Curriculum: British curriculum with IGCSE and A Level Programs.
- Ages: 2 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 590,300 to THB 1,021,800 (approx)
- Highlights: Brighton College offers a rigorous curriculum and a supportive environment, boasting a culture of kindness, confidence, and curiosity.
10.Wellington College International School Bangkok
- Location: Wellington College is located on Krungthep Kreetha Road, Saphan Sung.
- Curriculum: British curriculum with IGCSE and A Level Programs.
- Ages: 2 – 18 years old
- Language of Instruction: English
- Yearly Fees: Starting from THB 615,250 to THB 1,240,137 (approx)
- Highlights: Celebrated for its academic results, art programs, and sports, Wellington College offers a holistic and strong approach to education.
As a parent, one of the biggest hurdles of moving your child to a new country is securing the right visa for yourself. For parents who find the Non-O visa to be an expensive option, a Thai language education visa provides a more affordable and practical alternative, with the added benefit of learning the Thai language.
Taking up an intensive Thai Language course at ALA Language School can enrich your experience incredibly as an expat parent. Not only does knowing the language help you navigate through the busy, vibrant streets of Bangkok, but it’s also key to fostering deeper relationships and a greater sense of belonging for you and your child.
