British International School Phuket vs United World College - Thailand

	B British International School Phuket Phuket, Thailand	U United World College - Thailand Phuket, Thailand
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year THB 470,200 - 935,900	Fees / year THB 497,000 - 904,000
Age range	Age range 2 - 18 years	Age range 2 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)	Type Co-educational, Co-educational (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), British Curriculum, BTEC Qualification, Cambridge IGCSE	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP)
Pupils	Pupils 1,140	Pupils 600
Typical class size	Typical class size 10	Typical class size 6
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1996	Opened 2016
Bus service	Bus service —	Bus service Yes
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location British International School Phuket (BISP) is located in the Koh Kaew area in the northeast of Phuket Island, Thailand. The campus is set on 44 acres of secure, landscaped grounds, offering a quiet and spacious learning environment away from the island’s busier tourist zones. The school is approximately 35–40 minutes from Phuket International Airport and easily accessible via the main road, which connects to central Phuket Town and surrounding residential areas. This makes it convenient for both local and expatriate families commuting daily, as well as for boarders arriving from abroad.	Location UWC Thailand is situated in Thepkasattri, Thalang, in the northern part of Phuket, Thailand. The campus is nestled beside the Khao Phra Thaeo National Park, offering a tranquil setting surrounded by rainforest. It is conveniently located just 15–20 minutes by car from Phuket International Airport and is accessible via main island roadways. The area is quiet and residential, with nearby wellness centres and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Stages	Stages BISP provides a continuous educational pathway for children aged 2 to 18 years old, divided into clearly structured stages. The Early Years section (Nursery and Reception) focuses on play-based learning for ages 2–5. This leads into the Primary School (Years 1–6), where students follow the National Curriculum of England. The Secondary School comprises Years 7–13 and is further divided into Key Stage 3 (Years 7–9), IGCSE (Years 10–11), and Sixth Form (Years 12–13), which offers the IB Diploma Programme and BTEC in Sport. Boarding is available from Year 4 onwards.	Stages Early Years Programme (ages 2–5): Includes Junior and Senior Pre‑K (“Mini Mantas”) and Junior and Senior Kindergarten. The programme is play-based and follows the IB Primary Years philosophy, encouraging exploration and inquiry through thoughtfully designed learning environments. Primary Years Programme (Senior K–Grade 5): Spanning Senior Kindergarten to Grade 5, this level integrates core subjects with specialist classes in Art, Music, PE, Thai Language & Culture, and Mindfulness. It emphasises concept-driven, student-led inquiry and culminates in the Grade 5 Exhibition. Middle Years Programme (Grades 6–10): Grades 6 to 10 follow the IB MYP across eight subject groups, including Languages A & B, Sciences, Mathematics, Arts, Humanities, Technology, and PE. The programme encourages interdisciplinary thinking, global contexts, and service as action. Diploma Programme (Grades 11–12): The final two years follow the full IB Diploma Programme, comprising six academic subjects and three core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). Students choose subjects at Higher or Standard Level, with strong academic and pastoral support throughout.
School type	School type British International School Phuket is a co-educational day and boarding school, with boarding available for weekly or full boarding for students in Years 4–13. Approximately 120 students currently board on campus.	School type UWC Thailand is a co-educational international school serving both day and boarding students. Boarding is offered from Grade 9 onwards, with purpose-designed on-campus villas that house students in a supportive and supervised residential environment.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support BISP offers a dedicated Learning Support Department that works closely with students, families, and teachers to ensure inclusive access to the curriculum. The support is available for students from Primary through Sixth Form and includes tailored interventions, in-class support, and accommodations for specific learning differences. The school also coordinates with external professionals to provide occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, and educational psychology assessments when needed. Individual learning plans and exam accommodations are designed based on the student’s needs, and the Learning Support team aims to promote independence and confidence in each learner.	Additional learning support UWC Thailand welcomes students with a range of additional learning needs, provided these can be supported through the school's existing programmes and specialist team. The Learning Support Team comprises specialist teachers, a Speech and Language Pathologist, and an Occupational Therapist, offering services such as co-teaching, in-class adjustments, individual or small-group interventions, and therapy sessions as needed. Support focuses on four key areas: Cognition & Learning, Communication & Interaction, Social, Emotional & Mental Health, and Sensory & Physical . Families work collaboratively with the school, typically providing documentation at application and throughout their child’s time at UWC, to ensure tailored support plans are implemented effectively. Specialist services are integrated into students’ schedules and typically incur an additional cost. The school’s aim is to offer inclusive support where possible, but also balance resources to meet the needs of all learners.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation The school follows the English National Curriculum and is governed by international accreditations, but it has no direct national affiliation.	Country affiliation UWC Thailand is not affiliated with any single country. It is a part of the United World Colleges (UWC) movement, a global network of schools and colleges with a shared educational mission and presence across four continents.
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation BISP has no religious affiliation.	Religious affiliation UWC Thailand has no religious affiliations.
School day structure	School day structure The school day begins around 8 am and ends between 3 pm–4 pm, varying slightly by age group. It includes morning lessons, a mid-day lunch break, and afternoon sessions, with extra and co curricular activities after the last period.	School day structure School hours are from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Extra Curricular activities happen on select days after school and can range from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for end times depending on the age group.
Bus service details	Bus service details There is limited information available on the bus service.	Bus service details UWC Thailand offers a school bus service for day students, with routes covering key areas along Phuket’s west coast. The exact routes are planned annually based on family interest and location. The service is available for students from Kindergarten upwards, and parents must submit a booking form to enrol. More information, including costs and stop locations, is available by contacting the school’s Support Services team.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application & Enrolment Fees * Application Fee: THB 6,000 (non-refundable, one-time) * Placement Fee: THB 200,000 (per family with one student) or THB 250,000 (for families with more than one student) * Refundable Bond: THB 150,000 per student, refundable upon withdrawal with a full term’s notice. All tuition, boarding, and transportation fees are based on a three-term academic year. Fees are invoiced termly and cover the full school year unless otherwise noted. Annual Tuition Fees by Year Group * Nursery & Reception: THB 470,200 * Year 1–3: THB 714,300 * Year 4: THB 719,900 * Year 5: THB 722,200 * Year 6: THB 731,100 * Year 7–8: THB 931,300 * Year 9–10: THB 935,900 * Year 11 & 13: THB 914,500 * Year 12: THB 935,900 Annual Boarding Fees (Available from Year 4) Weekly Boarding: * Year 4–6: THB 377,500 * Year 7–10 & Year 12: THB 436,000 * Year 11 & 13: THB 436,000 Full Boarding: * Year 4–6: THB 451,000 * Year 7–10 & Year 12: THB 485,000 * Year 11 & 13: THB 485,000 Annual Transportation Fees (Optional) * Year 3–10 & Year 12: THB 95,100 * Year 11 & 13: THB 95,100 Additional Fees * Exam Fees (IGCSE/IB): Invoiced separately * Uniforms: Purchased separately * High Performance Athletes Programme: THB 32,000/year * Intensive English Course (Y7–Y8): THB 60,000 (Term 1), THB 40,000 each (Terms 2 & 3) Payment Terms & Methods * Term 1: Due 18 July 2025 * Term 2: Due 5 December 2025 * Term 3: Due 20 March 2026 * Payment options include: * Cash * Bank transfer * Cheque * Credit/Debit cards	Fee details Application and Enrolment Fees (One-Time, Non-Refundable): * Application Fee: THB 7,000 – payable at the time of application submission. * Placement Fee: THB 100,000 – due upon acceptance to secure the student’s place. * School Development Fund: * THB 165,000 for families with one child * THB 220,000 for families with two or more children * Security Deposit (Refundable): THB 25,000 – less any outstanding charges. Annual Tuition Fees (2025/2026): * Junior & Senior Pre-Kindergarten (Mini Mantas 2 & 3): THB 497,000 * Junior & Senior Kindergarten: THB 614,000 * Grades 1–5: THB 730,000 * Grades 6–10: THB 845,000 * Grades 11–12: THB 904,000 * Boarding Fee (if applicable): THB 633,000 Other Annual Costs: * Manta Staff-Parent Association Fee (SPA): THB 500 per family * Uniforms: Purchased separately through the school’s shop * Bus Service: Optional; fees and routes provided on request * Examination Charges: External exams such as IB DP, SAT, TOEFL billed separately * Student Support Services, Accelerated English, Co-curricular, and Sports Travel: May incur extra costs depending on individual needs and participation. Refund Policy: All school fees and one-time fees except security deposit are non-refundable once paid, regardless of withdrawal or change in enrolment plans. Payment Options: Payments can be made via: * Cash * PromptPay QR code * PayPal * Cheque (payable to “UWC Thailand International School”) * Credit card (Visa, MasterCard), WeChat, or Alipay (3% transaction fee applies) * Bank Transfer All fees are payable in Thai Baht (THB) and must be submitted net of any bank or transaction charges.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements Boarding provides 24/7 adult supervision on a 44-acre campus with on-site sporting facilities including two swimming pools, football fields, a sports hall, tennis courts and a golf course. Each boarding house is managed by a full-time house parent and an assistant house parent; a nurse remains on campus providing 24/7 care, supported by a partnership with Bangkok Hospital Phuket. Boarding houses use facial-recognition technology for all-access and boarding-house key-card verification; weekend boarding trips are offered for boarders.	Boarding arrangements Boarding at UWC Thailand is on campus in two houses led by Houseparents and supported by the residential life team. Rooms are diverse with roommates across cultures and backgrounds. The houses include shared kitchens, study areas, and lounges. Weekdays align with the school schedule and evenings include study sessions; weekends include cultural trips, local market visits, cooking classes, movie nights, and sports. Day students may join boarding activities and sleepovers on weekends.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The uniform consists of a blue polo shirt and shorts for everyday wear, with an optional batik dress for girls. Covered-toe footwear is required every day, and trainers are required for PE. Uniforms and sporting equipment are available from the School Shop.	Uniform requirement Uniforms are required for all students. Pre-K to Grade 5 wear teal polo shirts; Grades 6–10 wear blue polo shirts with grey skirts or shorts; Grades 11–12 wear a white polo shirt with the school logo and smart black trousers or skirts. The Uniform Shop on campus is open Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.
Food options	Food options The campus provides on-site dining facilities for students, with dining spaces within the site.	Food options UWC Thailand provides a morning and afternoon snack and a buffet-style lunch, with locally sourced food. The meals are mandatory and included in fees. The school accommodates dietary needs and is nut-aware; boarding meals are provided on weekdays and weekends.
House system	House system —	House system Boarding life uses two on-campus houses led by Houseparents and supported by the residential life team. Rooms are arranged with cross-cultural roommates and each house includes shared kitchens, study areas, and lounges. The arrangement fosters community, independence, and peer support.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The school is governed by a Board of Governors, directly appointed by the owners of the school, with general oversight of business and academic standards, assets and finances. An Executive Committee (EXCOMM) acts as the operating board and includes the CEO, Managing Director, Financial Director and Headmaster. Management comprises two integrated areas: Academic Leadership under the Headmaster and a Senior Leadership Team, and Business Management under the Managing Director with responsibility for campus operations. The Parent Teachers Association (PTA) supports the school but does not have decision-making authority.	Governance and ownership UWC Thailand is a not-for-profit school. Governance consists of the Education for a Sustainable Future Foundation Board and the School Board, with Banyapura Limited as the land-owning entity. The Education for a Sustainable Future Foundation owns Banyapura Limited, and the School Board provides strategic, financial, legal and reputational oversight; the Head of School and Leadership Team handle day-to-day operations.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details British International School Phuket delivers the National Curriculum of England in Key Stages 1 to 3 (Years 1–9). In Years 10 and 11, students follow the IGCSE programme. For Years 12 and 13, students may pursue the full International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) or select individual IBDP courses. Alternatively, students can opt for the BTEC International Extended Diploma in Sport. All graduates earn the BISP High School Diploma, which is accredited by CIS, NEASC, and the Thai Ministry of Education. BISP is also an exam centre for SAT, PSAT, LAMDA, ABRSM, Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, and Cambridge Assessment, and includes a well-being curriculum as part of its academic offering.	Curriculum details UWC Thailand offers the full International Baccalaureate (IB) continuum from Early Years through Grade 12. The Primary Years Programme (PYP) is followed from Senior Kindergarten through Grade 5, focusing on transdisciplinary, inquiry-based learning. Students in Grades 6–10 follow the Middle Years Programme (MYP), which includes eight subject groups and culminates in a personal project in Grade 10. In Grades 11 and 12, students complete the IB Diploma Programme (DP), selecting six subjects across different disciplines along with core components: Theory of Knowledge (TOK), the Extended Essay, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS). English is the language of instruction, and Thai Language & Culture is integrated throughout the curriculum. Social Emotional Learning and Mindfulness are embedded across all levels of the programme.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression —
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented —	Gifted and talented —
Academic calendar	Academic calendar View document	Academic calendar View document
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning BISP supports Social and Emotional Learning through a whole-school wellbeing model that includes emotional, social, and cognitive dimensions. Weekly wellbeing lessons in Primary and targeted sessions in Secondary help students develop skills such as emotional regulation, gratitude, optimism, and forming healthy social connections. BISP’s core values—Respect, Compassion, and Integrity—are actively reinforced in interactions and wellbeing activities. The House system further promotes SEL through mixed-age collaboration, leadership opportunities, and a strong sense of belonging.	Social & emotional learning UWC Thailand embeds SEL through practices guided by its Head of Mindfulness and school counsellors. The school uses tools like the “Wellness Wheel,” daily “Time‑In” mindfulness sessions, structured conflict-resolution circles (“council”), and conflict resolution to strengthen emotional skills and self-regulation . These initiatives are integrated across age groups to promote empathy, resilience, presence, and respectful communication.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) BISP supports students with additional educational needs through its Learning Support department, which operates under the school’s values of Respect, Compassion, and Integrity. The school adopts an inclusive and graduated approach, working closely with the wellbeing and counselling teams, and where necessary, external specialists such as speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and educational psychologists. Support is coordinated through collaborative investigation, intervention, and assessment, with provision accessible to all relevant teaching staff. The department works directly with families and teachers to identify barriers to learning and promote student independence. BISP is not a specialist SEN school but offers structured support for a range of mild to moderate learning needs.	Special educational needs (SEN) UWC Thailand is not a specialist SEN institution, but it provides inclusive support via its Learning Support Team. This team includes specialist teachers, a Speech & Language Pathologist, and an Occupational Therapist . They address needs related to cognition & learning, communication & interaction, social–emotional wellbeing, and sensory or physical areas with tailored in-class adjustments, small-group work, and therapy sessions. Support is coordinated with families and implemented through ongoing planning within the school’s mainstream structure.
English as an additional language	English as an additional language British International School Phuket offers structured support for non-native English speakers through its English Language Acquisition (ELA) programme. Students are assessed on entry and placed into one of several pathways, including Intensive English (IEC), Main ELA, Extra English (EE), IGCSE ESL, or IB English B, depending on their CEFR level. Specialised language acquisition teachers collaborate with the Multilingual Learning Research Center (MLRC) to deliver up-to-date, research-based instruction. Progress is monitored using WIDA and Cambridge English exams, with increasing integration into mainstream subjects as proficiency improves. The school’s approach focuses on small groups, targeted language development, and well-being support, helping English learners access the full curriculum.	English as an additional language The school does not publicly disclose specific information about EAL programmes or support services.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing BISP promotes institutional wellbeing through a model that includes five interconnected dimensions: physical & mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and cognitive wellbeing. Every student in Primary has a dedicated weekly wellbeing lesson, while Secondary students receive year-group specific sessions focused on topics such as interpersonal relationships. The school employs a team of trained counsellors who support students and parents, provide therapeutic services, and contribute to wider safeguarding efforts. The school also runs parent wellbeing workshops and encourages staff wellbeing through an open-door policy, social events, and access to counselling. A House system fosters belonging, leadership, and inclusion across age groups, enhancing student agency and peer support.	Mental wellbeing UWC Thailand supports student mental wellbeing through integrated whole-school practices and community engagement. Initiatives include peer support networks, regular check-ins during homeroom, and conflict-resolution practices such as student-led discussions. The school hosts “Counsellor Coffee Mornings” to involve parents in wellbeing topics and foster open communication. Wellbeing representatives within the Student Council also help promote mental health awareness and student voice. The school’s approach is informed by mindfulness, positive psychology, and a commitment to fostering belonging and resilience across all year groups.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding British International School Phuket (BISP) defines safeguarding as all actions taken to promote student welfare and protect children from harm. The school aligns its safeguarding practices with UNICEF’s definition of child protection, which includes prevention and response to violence, exploitation, and abuse. Its policies are guided by the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Thai Child Protection Act, and the UK’s ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ framework. BISP’s Child Protection Policy is reviewed annually, and the school expects all staff, parents, and visitors to uphold its safety standards. Designated Safeguarding Leads include the Primary and Secondary School Principals and the Thai Director.	Safeguarding UWC Thailand follows the UWC Common Standards for Safeguarding and has a published Child Safeguarding Policy that is shared with all parents and students . All staff are required to undergo background checks before employment, act as mandated reporters, and follow formal protocols when concerns arise. The school also uses secure ID systems, visitor controls, and campus design features to promote safety.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy View document	Safeguarding policy View document
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview On a 44-acre campus, BISP has extensive and comprehensive facilities. The school has an ongoing upgrade and development plan to ensure modern teaching spaces. The majority of classrooms are situated in separate Secondary and Primary buildings, and the Early Years section benefits from its own space. Additional breakout spaces are distributed throughout the school to support collaborative and project-based learning, with outdoor areas such as the amphitheatre and Early Years gardens.	Facilities overview The campus sits in northern Phuket on a green campus designed for age-appropriate learning spaces and includes a secondary building with classrooms, two science labs, and a design technology studio. The on-campus boarding house is located behind the secondary building and is connected to the campus by a short walk. The campus features a gymnasium, an outdoor sports pitch, and a multi-function court for team sports and activities. It also includes a multi-purpose hall, a cafeteria, drama room, music rooms, a Mindfulness Centre, a library, a student-run cafe, a uniform shop, and a health centre. Primary and secondary students have dedicated visual arts classrooms with specialist teachers.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities BISP has extensive sporting facilities that enable the school to host international sporting events, offer high-performance academies, and deliver an extensive extracurricular programme. Facilities include a Sports Hall, Gymnasium, Fitness Centre, 3 full-size Football Pitches, Tennis Centre, Golf Centre, 25m and 50m swimming pools, and a 400m grass athletics track. The 50m pool is the main competition pool and home to the Flying Fish Aquatics Club and Swim Academy, with multiple top coaches. The Golf Short Game Centre and the Trapeze and MACA Training Area are part of the on-site offerings for sport and enrichment.	Sports facilities The gymnasium provides indoor athletic space. The outdoor sports pitch and the multi-function court support a variety of ball games and team sports. The Mindfulness Centre supports student wellbeing as part of outdoor and wellness programming. The health centre provides medical provisions for daily activity and sports.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities The STEM facilities are state-of-the-art, including 6 Science Labs, 2 IT Labs, and a Primary Cooking Room. From Year 5, students are expected to bring their own MacBook, and the Secondary IT labs are equipped for robotics, green screen, programming, and 3D printing; younger students receive devices as required. All buildings have WiFi, and teaching spaces have projectors or screens and, where appropriate, interactive boards. The school provides two libraries (Primary and Secondary), an IB centre with a common room and University counselling suite, and a Design Technology Lab and Innovation Hub with two large Design and Technology work areas.	Academic facilities The secondary building contains several classrooms, two science labs, and a design technology studio. Primary and secondary students have dedicated visual arts classrooms with specialist teachers. The campus includes a library that serves as a central resource for learning. The campus houses science labs and technology spaces to support practical learning across the IB continuum.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities The school runs High-Performance Academies in Tennis, Football, Swimming and Golf, with professional coaching and pathways that can lead to school representation. There is a dedicated Aerial Arts, Flying Trapeze & Gymnastics Academy on site, and a Golf Short Game Centre supporting the golf programme. The Activity Programme also offers a range of other sports and activities such as Badminton and Dance, with opportunities within the Duke of Edinburgh International Award framework. Partnerships with local providers extend extracurriculars, including nearby horse riding stables, climbing centres and world-class golf courses.	Extra curricular facilities The campus includes spaces for performing arts, including a drama room and music rooms. There is a student-run cafe on campus that supports student-led initiatives. A Mindfulness Centre supports wellbeing as part of extracurricular programming. The library and a multi-purpose hall host clubs, rehearsals, performances, and events. The on-campus boarding house supports residential life activities and overnight programs.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History British International School Phuket (BISP) was established in September 1996 as a private, co-educational day and boarding school. It was founded under the Arthit Ourairat Institution, which continues to oversee the school's governance and legal registration in Thailand. From its early days, BISP aimed to offer internationally recognised curricula to a global student body, beginning with the British curriculum and gradually expanding to offer IGCSE, IB Diploma, and BTEC qualifications. Over the years, the school has developed a reputation for balancing strong academic offerings with high-level sports and arts programmes. The campus has expanded to 44 acres and includes purpose-built facilities for academics, athletics, and boarding, reflecting its steady growth and long-term planning. Headmaster Simon Meredith, appointed in 2020, leads the school alongside an experienced senior leadership team.	History UWC Thailand was originally established in 2008 as Phuket International Academy Day School by German philanthropist Klaus Hebben. It operated under the Education for a Sustainable Future Foundation with a focus on integrating academic learning with mindfulness, wellbeing, and sustainability. In August 2016, the school was officially accepted into the United World Colleges (UWC) movement and became the 16th UWC campus worldwide. This marked a significant milestone, aligning the school with a global network of institutions committed to peace and sustainable development through education. The school retains nonprofit status and is governed by a local board in alignment with UWC International's core values and mission.
Community	Community BISP hosts a diverse community of over 1,100 students representing more than 56 nationalities, fostering a rich intercultural environment. Community events play an integral role in school life and are designed to build inclusion and shared experience across age groups and backgrounds. Events include the annual Sports and Arts Awards, House competitions, service learning trips, and cultural celebrations that bring together students, families, and staff. The school also promotes wellbeing and personal development through a House system, where students of mixed ages collaborate throughout the year in service, sport, and academic challenges. Additionally, wellbeing workshops and social events are offered for parents and staff, reinforcing the idea that the school is a shared community space, not just an academic institution.	Community UWC Thailand actively encourages service learning and community engagement beyond the classroom. Students work alongside local partners on initiatives such as mangrove restoration, coral reef surveys, and beach clean-ups, as outlined on the school's Service Learning page . Grade 11 students undertake annual Project Week, designing and leading community-based service trips across southern Thailand . Regular “council” circles and student assemblies further support peer connection, cultural sharing, and student leadership development, forming an integral part of school life.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The BISP PTA is a voluntary organisation that fosters partnership between parents and the school to enhance student life and support the broader school community. It serves as a forum for consultation and communication, engaging regularly with the Headmaster, Principals, and management to ensure diverse parental perspectives are considered. The PTA organises events such as Christmas fairs, weekend markets, fundraisers, and welcoming activities for new families. Its objectives include promoting home–school collaboration, supporting communication between parents and staff, and encouraging greater community involvement. While the PTA provides input and facilitates community development, it does not hold authority over school operations or educational decisions.	Parent teacher association The Manta Staff-Parent Association (SPA) at UWC Thailand is an active body that strengthens collaboration between families and the school community. SPA is composed of parent volunteers who serve as ambassadors and committee members, contributing their time and skills to school events, parent engagement, and student support. Members come from diverse professional backgrounds and bring a shared commitment to wellbeing, inclusion, and school spirit. Activities include welcoming new families, organising social and cultural events, supporting class-level communications, and assisting with logistics for major school initiatives. The SPA also facilitates parent feedback and promotes collaboration between staff and families to enrich school life. Parent nominees are selected annually and help ensure that the association reflects the diversity and values of the broader UWC community.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual The school is an English-medium, co-educational day and boarding school established in 1996. It offers the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) in Years 12–13, with students able to pursue the Full IB Diploma or individual IBDP courses, and the Cambridge IGCSE programme in Years 10–11. It also provides a BTEC International Extended Diploma in Sport and a BISP High School Diploma accredited by CIS, NEASC, and the Thailand Ministry of Education. The Secondary curriculum supports both IGCSE and IBDP pathways, with a modified National Curriculum of England (KS1–KS3) guiding the younger years and a focus on independent study and 21st-century skills. The school operates as an exam centre for IBDP, IGCSE, SAT, PSAT, LAMDA, ABRSM, the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, and Cambridge Assessment.	Academic & intellectual UWC Thailand provides an International Baccalaureate continuum from Early Years to Diploma Programme. The Primary Years Programme is delivered in Kindergarten–Grade 5, the Middle Years Programme in Grades 6–10, and the Diploma Programme in Grades 11–12, with an Early Years Programme for ages 2–4. The school is fully authorised to offer the IB continuum and is accredited by the Council of International Schools. Learning emphasises inquiry, mindfulness, outdoor experiential education, and community engagement, with after‑school opportunities in technology, including videography, photography, coding and robotics.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Enrichment includes performing arts, visual arts and design, with dedicated facilities (e.g., art rooms, music rooms, drama studio, auditorium) and a broad program of creative activities across the year. KS3 students learn an instrument as part of the curriculum. The campus offers extensive arts facilities to support creativity and performance.	Arts & creative After‑school opportunities include videography and photography, supported by technology across the learning program. Robotics and other creative media projects are described in student work and personal projects. Creative media and arts are integrated as part of the IB curriculum to support expression and cross‑disciplinary learning.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language The Primary curriculum includes Languages (Thai, Mandarin and Spanish) as part of its core offer. The school's international character is supported by multilingual learning and language programmes across the campus.	Cultural & language Mother Tongue and Personalised Learning Track programmes let about 15% of students chart their own academic course, including language choice. The primary language of instruction is English, and an Accelerated English Language Acquisition Programme supports learners with English as an additional language. English fluency requirements for secondary programmes are stated in admissions materials, and language support is provided to accommodate diverse language backgrounds.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Beyond academics, students participate in a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including language programmes and competitive sports, alongside experiential learning through trips and residential camps. After-school activities are supported by qualified teachers and coaches.	Social & hobbies Outdoor and experiential education is a central part of student life, with programs from Mini‑Mantas through Primary and Secondary levels and mandatory camps. The Duke of Edinburgh programme is offered and there are Co‑Curricular Outdoor Activities as part of the school's activities. These programmes foster teamwork, resilience and practical problem‑solving.
Community & service	Community & service Enrichment and wellbeing are integrated across the school experience, with a holistic emphasis on learning, wellbeing and passion. Regular assessments and student-led conferences help families stay engaged in their child's development.	Community & service Community engagement is integral, with beach clean‑ups, campus sustainability projects and service‑learning that connect students with the local community. Students participate in environmental stewardship projects such as mangrove planting, and projects in Grade 10 highlight student‑led community initiatives.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional The school supports leadership and personal development through a structured enrichment program and opportunities to engage in clubs, sports academies, and community activities. The Duke of Edinburgh International Award is part of the broader extr academic framework offered by the school.	Leadership & professional Duke of Edinburgh is a formal leadership pathway offered through the outdoor education programme. Personal projects in Grade 10 provide opportunities for leadership, entrepreneurship and project management.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing Wellbeing and physical health are central to the school, with facilities and programs designed to support physical activity, mindfulness and a healthy lifestyle. The campus includes extensive sports facilities and dedicated wellbeing initiatives for students.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Mindfulness and wellbeing are integral to UWC Thailand's education. Mindfulness is embedded in the curriculum with practices for primary and secondary students. The school emphasizes the motto Good Heart, Balanced Mind, Healthy Body and integrates wellbeing into daily life, including physical activity and outdoor education.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision The school uses English as the language of instruction across all grades and provides English-language support for non-native speakers through an English Language Acquisition (ELA) program. In Primary, Thai, Mandarin and Spanish are taught as specialist language subjects. ELA includes Intensive English Course (IEC) and Main ELA, with dedicated Learning Enhancement teachers and assessments using WIDA and Cambridge English; Cambridge IGCSE ESL and IB English B HL form part of the language offerings.	Language provision The primary language of instruction is English. An Accelerated English Language Acquisition Programme is offered in multiple forms, identified through admissions testing to determine the level of English support needed. In Early Years, Mini-Mantas, no level of English is mandatory at entry because every child is viewed as an English language learner. In Primary (Grades 1–5), English fluency for non-native speakers is periodically assessed and supported by the Homeroom and English Language Acquisition Teacher; in Secondary (Grades 6–12), students entering the Middle Years Programme must demonstrate English fluency within reach of grade-level expectations, and Diploma Programme entrants should be fluent in English to keep up with the rigour of the programme.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards International School Award 2024: Premium Schools Category UWC Thailand was named a winner in the Premium Schools Category at the International School Awards 2024, organised by ISC Research.
Accreditations	Accreditations * Cambridge Assessment International Education: Authorizes BISP to offer IGCSEs and act as a registered exam centre for Cambridge qualifications. * International Baccalaureate (IBO): Accredits BISP to deliver the IB Diploma Programme, ensuring alignment with international academic standards. * Arthit Ourairat Institution: Represents the school’s legal registration and governance under the Arthit Ourairat Education group in Thailand. * Council of International Schools (CIS): Confirms that BISP meets internationally benchmarked standards for school operations, learning, and governance. * Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA): Membership connects BISP with other British-style schools in Asia for collaborative events and competitions. * International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT): Recognizes BISP as part of Thailand’s network of licensed and quality-assured international schools. * Cruzeiro Academy: Signifies partnership with Cruzeiro Esporte Clube (Brazil), particularly in football development programmes. * World Academy of Sport (WAoS): Supports BISP’s integration of elite sports training with academics through accredited programmes. * National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): Enables BISP to support U.S. college-bound students through access to professional admissions resources. * New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC): U.S.-based accreditation confirming rigorous standards in education quality and institutional integrity. * Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA / SMS): Thai governmental accreditation agency responsible for evaluating quality in Thai and international schools. * International Association for College Admission Counseling (IACAC): Enhances BISP’s support for international university admissions through professional engagement and resources. * Pearson BTEC: Approves BISP to deliver BTEC International Level 3 qualifications, especially in sport and applied learning.	Accreditations * United World Colleges (UWC): A member of the global UWC family, dedicated to its mission of using education to foster peace and sustainability. * International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO): Fully authorized to deliver the IB PYP, MYP, and DP across all grade levels. * Council of International Schools (CIS): Signifies adherence to international benchmarks in curriculum, governance, and student welfare. * East Asia Regional Council of Schools (EARCOS): Membership enables participation in regional teacher development and school collaboration. * International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT): Denotes active involvement in Thailand’s international school community and advocacy. * World Academy of Sport: Identifies the school as supporting high-performance athletes through structured sport-education programmes. * Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA), Thailand: Indicates compliance with national standards for quality education. * Duke of Edinburgh International Award: Reflects the opportunity for students to take part in this internationally respected personal development and service programme. * International Schools Theatre Association: Signals the school’s commitment to theatre arts through membership in a global network. * Office of the Private Education Commission (Thailand): Shows the school is recognised and regulated under Thailand’s private education system. * International Sailing Schools Association: Marks the school's involvement in certified sailing instruction.
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Schedule a visit or virtual meeting (optional but encouraged). Parents may book an on-campus tour or attend an interview via video conference. These meetings allow staff to better understand a student's academic profile, learning needs, and language proficiency. 2. Provide supporting documents and pay the application fee. Parents can then apply via the online application form. Supporting documents are required typically including a child’s passport, birth certificate, school reports, and any known learning or health-related information. The application fee must be paid before the admissions process begins, unless an exemption is granted. 3. Assessment and interviews. Depending on age and background, applicants may complete academic or cognitive screening, English proficiency testing, or learning support assessments. Parents and students may also speak with ELA or LS coordinators, the Thai Director, or Boarding staff if relevant. 4. Admissions review and decision. The Headmaster or relevant Principal reviews the complete profile and assessment outcomes. Applicants will be notified whether they receive a full offer, conditional offer, or are declined. Offers will include acceptance deadlines and payment instructions. 5. Finalise enrolment. Upon accepting the offer, families complete any required payments and receive placement guidance. The student is then enrolled into the school's systems, and staff are informed of any relevant needs or pathways (e.g., ELA, High Performance Sport).	Admissions 1. Schedule a visit or attend an Open House: You can book a school tour or join an Open House to experience the campus and community firsthand. 2. Submit your application and pay the fee: Upload required documents (e.g. reports, transcripts), and submit the non-refundable application fee. 3. Attend an interview, assessment, or classroom visit: Your child will be invited for an age-appropriate interaction—this may be a formal assessment, interview, or class visit. 4. Receive a decision and confirm your place: Once reviewed, the school will offer a place or notify if the child will remain under consideration. Accepted families must confirm acceptance and complete additional paperwork and fees. 5. Apply for Thai visas (if required): The school will provide the necessary documents to support visa applications for non-Thai students.
Scholarships	Scholarships Academic Scholarships BISP offers academic scholarships to both internal and external Secondary School students. External candidates may apply for the Dr. Arthit World Academic Scholarship, which is awarded based on academic excellence, English proficiency, leadership, community engagement, and interview performance. Internal students are automatically considered for the IGCSE Riband Awards. The Orange Riband grants full tuition for one year (or 50% for two years) to the top IGCSE performer with at least 8 A. The Blue Riband offers a 50% tuition reduction for one year to two students with 6 or more A or A grades. Sports Scholarships Sports scholarships are available to external applicants only for entry into BISP’s High Performance Academies in swimming, football, golf, tennis, and aerial arts. Awards are partial and may include boarding. Selection is based on competitive performance, trials, rankings, and coach references. Applicants must also meet academic and behavioural standards. Aerial Arts applicants submit performance videos, a personal statement, and a character reference. Arts Scholarships BISP offers partial Visual Arts scholarships, which may include boarding, to students with strong artistic talent. Applicants should have an A*/A in IGCSE Art or equivalent, a portfolio of at least 10 pieces, and ideally a record of public exhibition. Recipients are expected to pursue IB Visual Arts and contribute to the school’s creative community.	Scholarships UWC Thailand offers both full and partial scholarships to students entering the IB Diploma Programme in Grades 11 and 12. These scholarships are awarded through national committees in over 130 countries, including Thailand. Scholarships are awarded based on a selection process that considers merit, potential, and alignment with UWC values.
Waitlist	Waitlist If a qualified applicant cannot be offered a place due to limited availability, they may be placed on a waitlist. Priority is given based on factors such as having siblings at the school, diversity within the year group (gender, nationality, language), date of application, and ability to thrive in the BISP community.	Waitlist UWC Thailand does not maintain a formal waitlist.
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