Choosing an appropriate school for your children is one of the most significant decisions that parents face. With so many international school options available, especially in a center like Bangkok, weighing all of the many criteria might be daunting. This guide will help you through the important steps of assessing international schools to discover the most suitable option for your family’s requirements and objectives.
What Defines an International School?
The term “international school” is used quite broadly these days, but generally means schools that:
- Follow a non-national curriculum distinct from the host country
- Have a culturally diverse student body
- Use English or another foreign language as the main instruction language
- Prepare students for potential higher education abroad
Quality international schools strive to promote international understanding and an appreciation for diverse cultures and viewpoints.
Accessed from: International Schools Global website
What Is the Most Popular International Curriculum?
One of the first decisions is which academic curriculum you prefer for your children. The most widely-recognized and popular international curriculums are:
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Cambridge Assessment International Education
- Edexcel
- Advanced Placement (AP)
- Montessori
The IB curriculum, in particular, is quickly gaining popularity in international schools across the world. MYIS International School in Nonthaburi follows the acclaimed IB curriculum from pre-school to high school.
Accessed from: World Schools website
What Are the Benefits of Going to an International School?
There are many potential benefits to attending an international school like MYIS, including:
- Global Perspective: Students gain a more well-rounded, global worldview through exposure to diverse cultures and ideas.
- Language Skills: Immersion in an English-speaking environment helps develop strong language skills.
- University Preparation: International curricula like the IB are widely recognized and can give an admissions boost for top universities worldwide.
- Mobility: Credits and curriculums are designed to be transferable if families relocate to a new country.
- Cultural Awareness: Close interaction with students of many nationalities cultivates greater cross-cultural communication skills.
What Makes Thailand a Good Location for International Schools?
Thailand has emerged as a popular destination for international schools and their accompanying expat communities for several reasons:
- Growing Economy: Thailand’s strong economic growth has attracted multinational companies and expatriates.
- Cost of Living: The relatively low cost of living compared to many other regional hubs makes an international education more affordable.
- Central Location: Bangkok’s location allows relatively easy travel around Southeast Asia.
- Welcoming Culture: Thailand’s famed hospitality and openness to other cultures helps foreign families feel at home.
How To Choose an International School in Bangkok or Nonthaburi?
For parents trying to determine the right international school fit, here are some of the key criteria to look at:
Curriculum
Different international curricula can impact your child’s higher education options later on, so research curriculums like the IB, AP, and Cambridge. MYIS International School offers IB programs for Primary Years and Middle Years.
Community
The school community itself is important – look for an engaged, welcoming community that feels like a good fit for your family. Strong parent associations and extracurricular activities can be a plus. Learn more about our community.
Location
Consider the location’s safety, accessibility, and logistics like commute times. MYIS International School’s campus in Nonthaburi offers a quiet, secure neighborhood with easy access from Bangkok.
Communication
Evaluate how the school communicates with parents through technology, apps, meetings, and so on. Open communication is essential. As part of our philosophy to be responsible global citizens, MYIS International School embraces opportunities to connect with, help and serve the community.
Cost
Tuition costs at international schools can range widely. Determine a reasonable budget based on your family’s finances and ensure transparency on any additional fees. See the latest MYIS International School tuition fees.
Accreditation
Make sure any school is properly accredited. MYIS International School is accredited by respected organizations like the Thai Ministry of Education, IB, and ONESQA.
Student Support
Look into what academic and emotional/social support services are available. Examples include counselors, learning coaches, and mentors. Our goal at MYIS International School is to create a nurturing and challenging environment where children can build trust and gain confidence in their abilities. Such an environment is crucial for the child’s cognitive, social, spiritual and physical development.
Facilities
Check if facilities such as modern classrooms, libraries, arts studios, and sports fields are sufficient for your child’s interests and learning needs. The facilities at the MYIS International School campus have been designed to promote learning and to create a nurturing environment suitable for children ranging in age from 1 to 16 years.
Teacher Qualifications
Inquire about teacher hiring standards. All of our teachers are qualified and they possess excellent communication skills in English. In addition to their qualifications and experience in early childhood education, our teachers also embody a number of qualities that are crucial to help your child develop and learn. Our teachers are open-minded, passionate about learning, committed to collaboration, thoughtful, attentive, and reflective.
School Philosophy
Understand the school’s overarching vision and philosophy on education. Does it align with your values and goals for your children? MYIS International School promotes the ideals of responsible citizenship, academic excellence, and international understanding.
Choosing the Best International School for Your Kids
When comparing international schools in Bangkok and Nonthaburi, be sure to look for key elements that build a complete picture. Take advantage of open houses, school tours, discussions with existing parents and teachers, and other possibilities to gain a true sense of each school’s culture and community.
With so many excellent options available, Bangkok-area families have an enviable range of international schools to consider. By carefully assessing priorities around curriculum, cost, location, community and more, you can find the best fit for providing your children an outstanding international education.