Lanna International School Thailand vs Varee Chiangmai International School
Lanna International School Thailand and Varee Chiangmai International School are both in Chiang Mai, about 9 km apart. Both schools offer British, Cambridge IGCSE and Cambridge International AS Levels programmes. Lanna International School Thailand also offers IEYC, IPC, Cambridge (Primary) and Reggio Emilia, and Varee Chiangmai International School also offers Cambridge A Levels. Published annual fees are THB 413,400 - 803,400 at Lanna International School Thailand and THB 244,000 - 524,000 at Varee Chiangmai International School, which puts Lanna International School Thailand roughly 58% higher. Both take pupils from 2 to 18. Lanna International School Thailand is the larger school, with around 978 pupils to Varee Chiangmai International School's 300. Both keep typical class sizes around 20.
IEYC (International Early Years Curriculum), IPC (International Primary Curriculum), British Curriculum, Cambridge (Primary), Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Reggio Emilia Approach
Curriculum
British Curriculum, Cambridge IGCSE, Cambridge International AS Levels, Cambridge A Levels
Pupils
Pupils
978
Pupils
300
Typical class size
Typical class size
20
Typical class size
20
Instruction language
Instruction language
English
Instruction language
English
Opened
Opened
1993
Opened
2010
Bus service
Bus service
Yes
Bus service
No
Essentials
Essentials
Location
Location
Lanna International School is located in Hang Dong, a quiet suburb just south of Chiang Mai, Thailand. The school is set in a semi-rural area surrounded by greenery, about 20 minutes from the city centre. The campus is accessible by main roads and close to family-friendly residential neighbourhoods. The surrounding area is peaceful, with good transport links into central Chiang Mai.
Location
The school is situated at 59 Moo 6, Mahidol Road, Nong Hoi, Mueang District, Chiang Mai, Thailand. It lies within easy reach of shopping centres, hospitals, supermarkets, and bus and train stations.
Stages
Stages
The school is structured into three main sections: Early Years (ages 2–4), Primary (ages 5–11), and Secondary (Years 7–13). The curriculum transitions from the IEYC and IPC in the Early Years and Primary School to the Cambridge IGCSE and A-Level programme in the Secondary School.
Stages
VCIS serves children aged 2 to 18, from Pre‑Nursery up through Year 13.
School type
School type
Lanna International School is a co-educational day school and does not offer boarding facilities.
School type
The school is fully co‑educational and currently operates as a day school. No boarding facilities are provided.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
—
Pupil nationality mix
—
Additional learning support
Additional learning support
The school offers learning support services tailored to students with mild to moderate additional learning needs. This includes support within mainstream classrooms and additional sessions when appropriate.
Additional learning support
Varee Chiangmai International School provides Learning Support and English as an Additional Language Programme.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Lanna International School is not formally affiliated with any single country.
Country affiliation
The school is not affiliated with any specific country.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
The school is non-denominational and has no religious affiliation.
Religious affiliation
The school has no affiliation with any religion.
School day structure
School day structure
The typical school day runs from approximately 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Students have mid-morning and lunchtime breaks, with lunch available on campus. Exact timings may vary slightly by age group.
School day structure
Early Year and Primary School classes run from 8.00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday. Secondary School is from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. After-school activities for children in Primary run from 2:45 PM to 3:30 PM. For Secondary, after-school activities run from 3:15 PM to 4:00 PM.
Bus service details
Bus service details
The school offers a daily bus service for students.
Bus service details
The website does not mention any school bus or transport service.
School Transport (Home to School, per year): Zone A: THB 37,800 Zone B: THB 50,400 Zone C: THB 56,700
English Support Levy (Non-refundable) Intensive English Support: THB 40,000 per year Intensive English + After School English Tutoring: THB 64,000 per year
Sibling Discounts 2nd child: 10% 3rd child: 15% Note: discounts are applied automatically and removed if accounts become delinquent.
Refund Policy 70% refund if withdrawal is before the semester begins 50% refund if within 1–20 days of semester start 20% refund if within 21–40 days No refund after 40 days into the semester
Payment Methods Payments are accepted via bank transfer.
Fee details
Application and Placement Fee: THB 6,000 (one-time, non-refundable)
Enrollment Fee (non-refundable): New student: THB 80,000 2nd and subsequent child: THB 60,000 Entry at A Level: THB 40,000
Sibling Discounts 5% for the second child 10% for third and additional children
Other Required Fees English Support (IEP/EAP): THB 30,000 per semester Lunch (Early Years to Key Stage 2): THB 9,000 per semester PTA Fee: THB 750 per family per year DoE Registration (if applicable): THB 2,000
Payment Options Cash, Visa/MasterCard, and Bank Transfer.
Refund Policy New students: 75% refund if withdrawn within 7 business days after semester start.
Current students: Full refund if withdrawal notice is given 15 days before the semester start.
No refunds for mid-semester withdrawals.
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
—
Boarding arrangements
The school does not offer boarding facilities.
Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
—
Uniform requirement
—
Food options
Food options
LANNA publishes a monthly lunch menu featuring nutritious meals.
Food options
The canteen offers a range of snacks and various foods. The lunch includes Western, Thai and vegetarian dishes, as well as Asian noodle soup, salad and fresh fruits. The cafeteria serves Asian and Western dishes. Children may also bring their own food from home.
House system
House system
The school has a House System with four houses. Students compete in events throughout the year to earn points for their house.
House system
—
Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The school is licensed by the Thai Ministry of Education and is a fully accredited international school. The LANNA Parent Teacher Organisation (PTO) has an elected Board; the PTO Board meets monthly, manages a budget, and has representation at the School's Executive Board Meetings.
Governance and ownership
The founder and director is Ajarn Varee Patravanich.
Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Lanna International School offers a curriculum based on the English National Curriculum and Cambridge International framework. In the Early Years (ages 2–4), students follow the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) with a focus on play-based learning. Primary School (Years 1–6) continues with the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) integrated with core subjects like English, mathematics, and science. From Years 7–9, students study a broad range of subjects in line with the Cambridge Lower Secondary curriculum. In Years 10–11, students prepare for the Cambridge IGCSE, selecting from over 20 subject options. Years 12–13 follow the Cambridge International AS and A Level programme, providing in-depth specialization in subjects required for university admission. English is the language of instruction, and additional languages include Thai, French, and Chinese. In addition to the core A-level studies, the school also offers preparatory courses for SAT (USA College Board) and IELTS (UK alternative to TOEFL), and, optionally, a UK-accredited Sports Leadership course and/or the opportunity to undertake the Duke of Edinburgh International Award.
Curriculum details
Varee Chiangmai International School follows the English National Curriculum from Early Years through to Year 13. In the Early Years (Pre-Nursery to Reception), the curriculum is based on the UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) with a focus on language, numeracy, and learning through play in English and Thai contexts. The Primary phase (Years 1–6) continues with subjects such as English, maths, science, humanities, computing, arts, Thai language, and physical education. In Secondary (Years 7–9), students prepare for Cambridge Checkpoint exams in English, mathematics, and science, alongside subjects including geography, history, ICT, and the arts. For Years 10–11, the school offers the Cambridge IGCSE curriculum with a combination of core and elective subjects. In Years 12–13, students choose three A-Level subjects and continue with non-exam subjects such as Thai language, PE, and university preparation activities.
Lanna International School supports Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) through its counselling services and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic) programme. Counsellors provide confidential one-on-one support and run initiatives that focus on self-image, resilience, empathy, and building healthy relationships. SEL is also integrated into the PSHE curriculum, which is delivered via weekly lessons, assemblies, workshops, and circle time. Topics include emotional regulation, friendships, and responsible decision-making. Guest speakers and external programmes occasionally supplement these efforts. Provision is coordinated through the school’s Student Support Services team.
Social & emotional learning
VCIS embeds Social and Emotional Learning through its regular PSHEE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education) lessons, offered from Early Years through secondary levels. In Secondary, there is an explicit focus on encouraging tolerance, social skills, and peer support during Key Stage 3 through group work and collaborative activities. The school also provides opportunities for student voice through its Student Council, representing Years 7–13, where students can raise concerns and contribute to school life.
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Learning Support at Lanna assists pupils with mild to moderate learning differences by creating Individualised Learning Plans delivered within mainstream classrooms. Support includes accommodations, occasional curriculum modifications, and access to Learning Support assistants as needed. The SEN Coordinator, Ms Gina, oversees the programme (Primary). The school reviews applicants on a case-by-case basis to ensure they can cater to individual needs, and does not present itself as a specialist SEN institution.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school provides Learning Support for students with identified needs, though it is not described as a specialist SEN institution. Support is offered based on the availability of resources and depends on individual student needs, as assessed during admissions and placement processes. The school does not publicly specify which categories of SEN it can support beyond indicating a Learning Support programme.
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
Lanna offers structured English support through small‑group programmes: Intensive English (Primary), Extra English (Secondary), and After School English Teaching (ASET). Secondary students may join a full‑day Accelerated English Programme (AEP) to fast‑track language acquisition before mainstream integration. The EAL Milepost 2 and AEP Coordinator Ms Victoria manages and monitors student progression. Placement is based on initial testing and reviewed termly, with progress reports shared with parents.
English as an additional language
VCIS offers an English as an Additional Language programme as part of placements for non‑native English speakers, dependent on resource availability. Students are assessed on English ability during the placement test and interview with an English Language Specialist, and additional ESL support may be offered if required to access mainstream classes.
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Counselling services are available to all students, providing a confidential and personalised approach to mental wellbeing. Counsellors run both preventative programmes and interventions that promote self‑awareness, resilience and healthy coping strategies. PSHE is integral to the curriculum, supporting emotional health and wellbeing through lessons, assemblies, guest speakers and workshops. The team works to help students maintain balanced lives and resilience during transitions.
Mental wellbeing
VCIS provides in‑house counselling through a professionally staffed counsellor who is available throughout the school day, with an open‑door policy for students requiring support. Pastoral care is emphasised as a high priority, including round‑the‑clock security, first‑aid rooms, codes of conduct, and a zero‑tolerance bullying policy to maintain student wellbeing.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Lanna’s safeguarding framework is detailed in their Child Protection/Safeguarding Handbook, which aligns with Thai law and UK guidance (“Keeping Children Safe in Education” 2024; “Working Together” UK 2023; Thai Child Protection Act 2003). he policy highlights welfare, safety and child protection as top priorities and outlines roles and responsibilities for staff and leadership. Designated safeguarding procedures and staff training ensure a clear and robust response to concerns, with strong oversight from senior leaders.
Safeguarding
The school’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is publicly listed in its website navigation, indicating formal safeguarding measures are in place. VCIS enforces a zero‑tolerance policy on bullying along with well‑defined behavioural codes of conduct and secure campus access controls. The presence of professionally staffed first‑aid rooms also supports student safety daily.
The school has a spacious campus with state-of-the-art facilities for ages 2–18. It includes interactive learning spaces, indoor athletic facilities, and a range of spaces for co-curricular activities. The Early Years area has age-appropriate playgrounds; an Assembly and Performing Arts Hall supports creative work; and Academic Buildings house STEAM labs, robotics, science labs, music rooms, and art studios. The campus prioritizes safety and well-being with clean, well-ventilated learning spaces.
Facilities overview
Varee Chiangmai International has a modern campus in Chiang Mai. Classrooms are spacious and networked with computers, with Activ-boards for interactive multimedia learning. Specialist facilities include science labs, computer labs, art studios, drama and music studios, and a well‑resourced library, plus a 25‑meter swimming pool, auditorium, indoor gymnasium and multiple play areas. The cafeteria serves Asian and Western dishes and there is a mini‑mart on site. The campus is conveniently located near Chiang Mai's airport and central amenities, and the school is accredited by the Education Development Trust and Cambridge International Examinations.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
The school has an indoor air-conditioned gymnasium, a chemical-free swimming pool, and a splash pool to support physical education and swimming programmes. These facilities support physical education, athletic teams, and after-school activity programmes. Athletics are a core part of LANNA with a broad sports programme.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities include futsal courts, a football pitch, basketball facilities and multi‑purpose sports fields. A 25‑meter swimming pool is on site and there is an indoor gymnasium. The campus provides a broad, well‑equipped sports program to support student participation across age groups.
Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Academic Buildings are designed for excellence and include state-of-the-art STEAM laboratories, robotics equipment, science laboratories, music rooms, and art studios.
Academic facilities
The Cambridge curriculum is offered, including IGCSE and AS/A Levels. The language of instruction is English and the school serves students aged 2 to 18. Classrooms are equipped with networked computers and Activ‑boards to support learning. Specialist facilities include science labs, computer labs, art, music and drama studios, and a well‑resourced library.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
The school offers extensive extracurricular opportunities, including a VEX robotics team and the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, along with leadership and service initiatives, sports, the arts, and clubs.
Extra curricular facilities
The school provides a comprehensive extra‑curricular programme for primary and secondary, with activities ranging from ESL and ICT to sports such as basketball, football, rugby and swimming, and arts including music, choir, hip hop and dance, Chinese and Thai. Activities change each semester and are often run by teaching staff. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award is offered and VCIS is an International Award Centre.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Lanna International School was founded in 1993 by Paul and Surin, initially beginning as a small homeschool group. After Paul’s passing in the same year, Surin continued to oversee the development of the school. The school is governed by an Executive Board in line with Thai private school regulations. Surin, as the licensee, remains involved in the school’s management.
History
Varee Chiangmai International School traces its origins to the Varee Kindergarten founded in 1978 by Mrs Varee Patravanich. In response to parental demand for primary and secondary international-style education, the international school expanded and officially opened in Chiang Mai in 2003 under her leadership. The school remains privately owned and continues under the leadership vision of its founder and director, integrating a UK-aligned curriculum with Thai cultural values.
Community
Community
The school hosts a variety of community and cultural events throughout the year. Students regularly organise Model United Nations conferences, including the Chiang Mai MUN, which Lanna co-founded. Other school-wide activities include house events, drama productions, and arts showcases.
Community
The school hosts a culturally diverse student body and community, with events reflecting Thai, Asian, and international traditions. Through its “Our Community” section, the school promotes opportunities for students to engage across cultures and values, though specific community events or festivals are not itemized in detail on the public website.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
Parents participate in school governance through representation on the Executive Board, including a designated Parent Representative and a member of the Parent Teacher Organisation. The PTA was involved in organising the school’s 30th Anniversary Gala, which included student performances, an art auction, and fundraising for local youth organisations. Details about parent engagement and expectations are outlined in the school’s handbooks. Regular communication between families and the school is maintained through these structures.
Parent teacher association
Varee Chiangmai International School has an active Parent Teacher Association whose mission is to foster partnerships between families, teachers, and the school. The PTA aims to advocate for student wellbeing, support school activities across cultures, and serve as a channel for parental concerns. While the PTA’s purpose and vision are clearly defined, the website does not specify particular PTA events, regular meetings, or groups involved in organising community activities.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
LANNA provides a full British education for ages 2-18. The curriculum is rooted in the National Curriculum of England and the Cambridge pathway, with the International Early Years Curriculum (IEYC) and the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) guiding learning in Early Years and Primary. In Secondary, students have access to a broad range of IGCSEs and A Levels. Close to 70% of graduates gain admission to Top 100 universities worldwide.
Academic & intellectual
The school serves students aged 2 to 18 (Pre-Nursery to Year 13) and offers a UK-aligned international curriculum with IGCSE for Years 10–11 and AS-level/A-level for Years 12–13. The language of instruction is English. The school is fully accredited by the Education Development Trust (EDT) and is a Cambridge International Examinations centre.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Music plays a prominent role in the curriculum, supported by dedicated spaces including an Assembly Hall and music rooms for performing arts. The campus features facilities for the arts, with opportunities to participate in orchestras, rock bands, and other creative activities. Extracurricular arts and performing arts activities are integral to student life.
Arts & creative
—
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
LANNA is a diverse community representing 31 nationalities with 17 languages spoken. In Primary, Thai language and culture are taught, and non-Thai nationals may choose to study French or Chinese; language study emphasizes speaking, listening, and cultural understanding. The Modern Foreign Languages curriculum focuses on listening, speaking, reading, and writing in the target language.
Cultural & language
—
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
LANNA uses a House System that promotes belonging, teamwork, and friendly competition across year levels. There are extensive opportunities for leadership and service, athletics, arts, and clubs, including participation in programs such as the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award and the VEX robotics team. These activities complement the academic program and encourage collaborative and extracurricular engagement.
Social & hobbies
—
Community & service
Community & service
Caring Community and Community Service Learning are central to LANNA's ethos, with activities and initiatives that involve volunteering and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to contribute to the local and global community through service projects.
Community & service
—
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Leadership and professional development are embedded in school life, with student leadership opportunities and structured programs alongside academic work. Scholarships are available for Year 5 and higher, supporting talented or high-achieving students. The school provides pathways related to university and career preparation.
Leadership & professional
—
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
LANNA's campus offers state-of-the-art facilities, including an indoor gym, a chemical-free swimming pool, a splash pool, and dedicated spaces for learning and wellbeing. The environment emphasizes safety and well-being, with well-designed spaces and climate-controlled learning environments.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
—
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
LANNA delivers a British-style education based on the National Curriculum of England and Wales. In Primary (ages 5–10), English is the language of instruction, and English support programmes are available; Thai language and culture are taught. Modern Foreign Languages (French and Chinese) are offered in Primary; non-Thai nationals may choose French or Chinese, and Year 1–2 introduce MFL. Typically, this arrangement means one Thai lesson and four foreign-language lessons per week, with the option to continue five Thai language lessons if desired.
Language provision
English is the language of instruction. Thai Language, Culture, and History (TLCH) is offered for Thai and international students. For international students, Thai language learning begins in Year 3 and continues to Year 11, twice weekly, at two levels: A1 (Beginner) and A2 (Intermediate). Students study Thai Language for Communication and Thai Culture and History as part of TLCH.
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
—
Bilingual teaching
—
Immersion programs
Immersion programs
—
Immersion programs
—
Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
As of the most recent information published on the school’s official website, Lanna International School Thailand has not listed any school-level awards received in the past five years.
Awards
The school does not have publicly available information on their awards.
Accreditations
Accreditations
* Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) A U.S.-based accrediting body that ensures international schools meet rigorous standards of educational quality and institutional integrity. Accreditation supports global university recognition and continuous school improvement.
* Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) The school is a registered Cambridge examination centre, offering IGCSE and A-Level programmes that follow globally recognized academic standards.
* East Asia Regional Council of Overseas Schools (EARCOS) A regional organization that supports international schools in East Asia through collaboration, conferences, and professional development.
* Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA) A network of British international schools that promotes collaboration, competition, and support across member schools.
* International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT) A national body that supports international schools operating in Thailand, including liaison with the Ministry of Education.
* ONEOSA Listed as a partner affiliation on the school’s site; limited public explanation provided.
Accreditations
Fully accredited by Education Development Trust (EDT) A UK-based accreditation agency assessing every aspect of school operations from facilities and hygiene to teaching standards.
Accredited by Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE) For delivering IGCSE and A‑Level programmes to international standards.
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Book a school tour (optional but recommended) Once your enquiry is received, the admissions team may invite you to visit the campus—either in person or online. Tours are scheduled by appointment and are a good way to become familiar with the facilities, meet staff, and ask specific questions.
2. Complete the online application form The admissions team will provide a link to the formal application form. Parents will need to submit student details, previous school reports in English, and other requested documentation. For Early Years applicants (ages 2–5), previous school reports are not required.
3. Interview and assessment The type and length of assessment depend on the applicant’s age:
* Early Years (2–5): a play-based session with the child and a short parent interview. * Years 1–3: a short 30-minute interview and basic assessment. * Year 4 and above: a more comprehensive 3-hour session including an essay, reading comprehension, cognitive ability testing, and an interview with a principal.
4. Decision and waitlist The school’s head, principals, and admissions team review each application considering academic performance, assessment results, interview performance, English level, and age placement. The school may contact the applicant’s previous school to check for any unresolved financial matters. Results are typically shared within 10 working days. If no space is currently available, the applicant may be placed on a waiting list.
5. Offer acceptance and submission of documents Accepted students will receive a formal offer by email along with a tuition invoice. Parents must submit additional documentation such as passports, birth certificates, Thai ID (if applicable), and details for transport or visa support. Offers expire if not accepted within ten working days.
6. Enrollment and start of school services Once the invoice is paid and documents submitted, the student is enrolled. The school then assists with uniforms, bus transport, and visa processes where required. The visa officer can guide families needing Non-Immigrant ED or Guardian-O visas.
Admissions
Initial interview Parents and students meet with the English Language Specialist. Students entering Key Stage 2 (Year 3) or higher complete assessments in English, Mathematics, and Science as appropriate for their level.
Complete application form & pay fee If successful in the interview, submit the application form and pay the non-refundable 6,000 THB application and placement test fee.
Placement Test Tests are scheduled at the beginning or end of the day. Younger students (Early Years, Years 1–2) join classroom activities for assessment.
Acceptance Decision The Principal recommends, and the Director makes the final admission decision.
Enrollment Following acceptance, complete enrollment forms, pay the enrollment fee and tuition (due one week before term start), and receive a copy of the Parent Handbook.
Scholarships
Scholarships
Lanna International School offers scholarships with a focus on academic achievement, talent, and personal contribution to school life.
1. Academic and Talent Scholarships (Years 5–11) Open to new students applying for entry into Years 5 to 11. These scholarships cover up to 60% of tuition fees. Selection is based on academic performance or demonstrated talent in areas such as arts, sports, STEM, or humanities. Applicants must also show good character and a commitment to school life. Awards are renewable annually, subject to review.
2. Sixth Form Scholarships (Years 12–13) Available to current Lanna students entering Year 12. Scholarships are awarded in three tiers: Gold (60%), Silver (40%), and Bronze (20%). They are based on predicted IGCSE results, school involvement, and overall contribution. The scholarship continues through Year 13, pending a review during Semester 2 of Year 12.
Scholarships
The school does not have publicly available information on their scholarships.
Waitlist
Waitlist
Lanna International School operates a waitlist system when year-level spaces are full. Students may still go through the full admissions process, including assessment and interviews, even if a place is not immediately available. Those who meet the admissions criteria are placed on the waiting list.
If admission is not offered immediately, a retest may be scheduled in 3, 6, or 9 months depending on the applicant’s age and performance.
Waitlist
VCIS operates a rolling admissions policy. If space is available and assessment criteria are met, children may join at any time during the year. However, entry into Year 9, Year 10, and Year 12 is restricted to the beginning of the school year.