Lighthouse International School Phuket – Primary School campus vs Montessori House Phuket International School
Lighthouse International School Phuket – Primary School campus and Montessori House Phuket International School are both in Phuket, about 7 km apart. Both schools offer Montessori programmes, and Lighthouse International School Phuket – Primary School campus also offers Canadian. Published annual fees are close, at THB 252,000 - 270,000 for Lighthouse International School Phuket – Primary School campus and THB 241,000 - 305,700 for Montessori House Phuket International School. Lighthouse International School Phuket – Primary School campus takes pupils from 5 to 11, and Montessori House Phuket International School from 2 to 18. Typical class sizes are 20 at Lighthouse International School Phuket – Primary School campus and 15 at Montessori House Phuket International School.
Lighthouse International School’s Primary campus is located on Soi Salika in Rawai, in the southern part of Phuket, Thailand. The area is a quiet residential neighbourhood near Nai Harn and Rawai beaches. The campus is accessible via Wiset Road and is a short drive from local amenities, cafes, and family-friendly communities.
Location
Montessori House Phuket International School is located on Luang Poh Cham Road in the Chalong district of southern Phuket, Thailand. It is situated near the landmark Chalong Temple and surrounded by residential greenery. The area is accessible by local roads and is approximately 20 minutes by car from Phuket Town. The school serves families living in central and southern parts of the island.
Stages
Stages
Lighthouse International School Phuket is divided into Early Years, Primary, and Secondary sections. The Primary School campus in Rawai specifically serves students in Grades 1 to 6, typically aged 5 to 11.
Stages
Montessori House Phuket International School is divided into four main levels: Toddler, Children’s House, Elementary, and Secondary. The Toddler level caters to children aged 2 to 3, while the Children’s House is for ages 3 to 6. The Elementary section includes Lower and Upper levels for ages 6 to 12, and the Secondary program serves students aged 12 to 18.
School type
School type
Lighthouse International School Phuket is a co-educational day school offering education from Kindergarten through Grade 12 across multiple campuses. The Primary School campus in Rawai serves students in Grades 1 to 6. Boarding facilities are not offered.
School type
Montessori House Phuket International School is a co-educational day school offering education from Toddler level through to Secondary. It accepts both boys and girls across all levels. Boarding facilities are not offered.
Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Lighthouse International School Phuket describes its approach to individualized learning, where teaching methods are tailored to each student’s unique needs and strengths. Educators adjust instructional strategies and assignments to help students overcome challenges in areas such as literacy, numeracy, and conceptual understanding. This personalized approach is delivered within class by qualified teachers who adapt lessons to support diverse learners and interests. Though the school does not use the specific label of a dedicated SEN department, its commitment to customized learning and individual attention serves a similar supportive purpose.
Additional learning support
Montessori House Phuket International School does not publicly provide information about any formal learning support services.
Country affiliation
Country affiliation
Lighthouse International School Phuket is not affiliated with any national government or embassy.
Country affiliation
Montessori House Phuket International School does not have a formal affiliation with any foreign government.
Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
Lighthouse International School Phuket is not affiliated with any religion. It welcomes students and families from all cultural and religious backgrounds.
Religious affiliation
Montessori House Phuket International School is not affiliated with any religion.
School day structure
School day structure
Lighthouse International School Phuket does not publish specific information about school day timings on its official website.
School day structure
Primary and secondary classes at Montessori House Phuket International School likely follow the school’s stated office hours, which run from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Bus service details
Bus service details
Lighthouse International School Phuket offers a school bus service for families requiring transportation across Phuket. However, the official website does not provide detailed information about routes, coverage areas, safety features, or supervision.
Bus service details
Montessori House Phuket International School does not offer a school bus or coach service.
Term-by-Term Grades 1–3: THB 94,000 per term Grades 4–6: THB 100,000 per term
Additional Fees Education fee: THB 20,000 per year Insurance: THB 1,000 per year
Billing & Payment Fees can be paid monthly, termly, or annually. 10% discount applies for full annual payment. The chosen plan remains fixed for the school year.
Refund Policy - Term 1 withdrawal: 90 days’ notice - Terms 2–4 withdrawal: 45 days’ notice - Refunds are processed at the end of the school year - Monthly fees are non-refundable
Payment Methods Accepted payment methods include Thai bank transfer, cash, Wise, and crypto currency facilities. Specific bank account details are provided separately for Grades 1–6 versus Grades 7–12.
* Tuition and lunch fees are billed per term in advance * Non-refundable once the term has started * Late payment fee: THB 500 per week/child; students may be suspended after 3 weeks unpaid * Payment methods accepted: - Cash at school office - Bank transfer (Kasikorn or Siam Commercial Bank) - Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) — 3% surcharge
Refunds
* Lunch fees may be refundable if written notice is given at least one month before withdrawal * Deposits are refundable if all dues are cleared and proper withdrawal notice is provided
Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements
Short-stays and summer school are offered for visiting families. In a short-stay, children socialize and interact with Montessori materials, and are introduced to the Montessori philosophy. School fees and accommodation are paid on a pro rata basis according to the season.
Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
One uniform is included in the annual fee; additional uniforms can be purchased at the school office.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
The annual fee includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
Food options
Lunch fees are paid each term in advance and billed with tuition. Farm-to-table produce is part of the school's food approach.
House system
House system
Students are assigned to a house; siblings are generally placed in the same house.
House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
The founders are Dan and Melissa Skitch.
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
Lighthouse International School Phuket uses the Canadian Alberta curriculum for its Primary School programme. Core subjects such as English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies are delivered through Canadian textbooks and standardized assessments led by qualified international homeroom teachers in English.
The curriculum includes a structured Thai language programme focused on spoken communication and early script writing for all students. Integrating Physical Education & Wellness, Art, Music, and Health & Social Studies, the programme reflects a well-rounded curriculum based on Alberta standards and guided learning targets.
Students engage in mixed-age, constructivist, project-based learning, including interactive marine biology and interdisciplinary activities inspired by Montessori‑Waldorf methodology. Assessment is ongoing, combining weekly tasks, quizzes, presentations, and reflective projects mapped to clear learning objectives.
Curriculum details
Montessori House Phuket follows a Montessori Curriculum from Toddler through Secondary.
In the Children’s House programme (ages 3–6), students engage with Montessori materials to develop independence, early literacy and numeracy, and motor coordination. Weekly sessions include Thai language and culture, art, PE, drama, Mandarin, and music.
The Elementary programme (ages 6–12) offers language, mathematics, science, history, geography, Thai, physical education, and art. Students learn in mixed-age classrooms and progress at their own pace through hands-on work.
The Secondary programme (ages 12–18) is delivered in partnership with Bridgemont International School and uses project-based learning through Moodle. Students work toward U.S.-accredited high school certification.
Lighthouse International School emphasizes project-based and character-driven learning, with events like “Celebration of Friendship & Core Values” which include community-building activities and anti-bullying messaging to reinforce values such as kindness, generosity, and teamwork. Their curriculum encourages students to reflect on interpersonal themes through individual and group activities. SEL is embedded within day-to-day learning via assemblies, art projects, and values-focused discussions in class. While no separate SEL programme is listed, school-wide events support students in building emotional awareness and positive relationships.
Social & emotional learning
The school does not publicly disclose specific information regarding its approach to social and emotional learning (SEL)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school describes an individualized learning approach where teachers tailor instruction to each student's needs and learning style, supporting academic strengths and addressing challenges in literacy, numeracy, and concept understanding. There is no formal Learning Support or SEN-specific department specified on the official website. Specific interventions or staff dedicated solely to SEN provision are not publicly detailed. Lighthouse does not position itself as a specialist SEN school but indicates a flexible, supportive environment for a range of learners.
Special educational needs (SEN)
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding the provision of support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
English as an additional language
English as an additional language
There is no explicitly named EAL programme for the Primary School on the official website. The school does mention "Extra English – After School ELS English Language Support", which consists of two lessons per week and is intended for children who speak two or more languages.
English as an additional language
The school does not publicly disclose information regarding support for students with English as an Additional Language (EAL).
Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
While the school does not detail a specific mental health programme on its official website, its emphasis on individualised learning, personal reflection, and creative activities supports emotional wellbeing through classroom interactions and learning experiences. The school’s recognition of character education days and personal expression initiatives reinforces emotional resilience. No dedicated counselling or mental health staff roles are mentioned publicly. Lighthouse integrates wellbeing into its learning philosophy rather than through a discrete programme.
Mental wellbeing
The school does not publicly disclose information about mental health or wellbeing services.
Safeguarding
Safeguarding
Lighthouse International School Phuket provides Red Cross-certified safety and first-aid training for all staff, indicating a proactive commitment to student safety. However, the website does not publish formal child protection or safeguarding policy documents, or identify designated safeguarding leads or procedures. Families are encouraged to request this information directly from the school.
Safeguarding
Montessori House Phuket mentions inclusivity and non-discrimination on its website, but it does not publish a dedicated safeguarding or child protection policy.
Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
The Primary School uses the Canadian Alberta curriculum and a Creative Montessori Inspired Education model similar to Waldorf education. The program emphasizes constructivist, hands‑on learning and multilingual communication. English is the language of instruction with support for non‑native speakers. Thai language is taught to all students, with emphasis on spoken language and the start of the Thai alphabet. Class sizes are small, typically up to 20 students, with Grades 1–2 having an additional teaching assistant. The school offers health & wellness, music and art, and activities including rock climbing, basketball, and football.
Facilities overview
The school is the only licensed Montessori school on Phuket serving Toddlers to Upper Elementary (Ages 2–12) and Secondary (Ages 12–18). It is set in a lush environment near Chalong Temple. Class sizes are small, with an average of 15 children per classroom and two teachers in each classroom. The school offers short-term visits and a farm-to-table produce program as part of its holistic approach.
Sports facilities
Sports facilities
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Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
The Primary program is modeled on the Alberta Curriculum, delivering English‑language core subjects with support for non‑native speakers. Core study areas include English Language, Mathematics, Physical Education & Wellness, Science, and Social Studies. Thai language is part of the program. Extra English Language Support (ELS) is offered after school (2 lessons per week). Four stages lead seamlessly from primary to secondary, enabling progression to the higher grades.
Academic facilities
The school provides hands-on learning, individualized learning, a high-level curriculum, self-directed, independent study, small class sizes, and a natural, healthy environment. The language of instruction is English as part of an English-language education that focuses on the development of the whole child.
Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
After‑school activities include rock climbing, basketball and football as part of the broader health, wellness, arts and physical education program. The curriculum also includes Health & Wellness, Music and Art. ELS (Extra English Language Support) is offered after school (2 lessons per week).
Extra curricular facilities
The school offers a myriad of after-school classes.
Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
Lighthouse International School Phuket was founded in 1999 by parents and educators, making it one of the earliest international schools in Phuket. It remains parent-led, with founders deeply involved in daily operations and committed to the school’s ongoing development.
History
Montessori House Phuket International School was founded in 1998. It is the only licensed Montessori school in Phuket, offering education from Toddler through to Secondary level. The school operates as an independent private institution. It follows the Montessori philosophy across all stages, with no formal affiliation to a governing board or association publicly stated.
Community
Community
The Lighthouse community gathers regularly for family barbecues, international-themed events, and monthly cultural celebrations where students perform or display projects. These events often include themed activities such as Italian or Greek nights, along with student talent shows and parent participation in food and music
Community
Montessori House Phuket has a diverse international community, welcoming families from a range of cultural backgrounds. The school hosts community events such as beach clean-ups and parent-led barbecues that encourage social interaction and environmental awareness. Occasions like Songkran and themed astronomy nights also bring students and families together to celebrate both Thai and global traditions.
Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
Parents at Lighthouse are actively involved through a PTA-style role, contributing to events such as monthly community barbecues and cultural festivals. One parent with a catering business has provided food, while another parent with a DJ company organized music and interactive entertainment. Parents also support Sports Day, International Week, and grade-level showcases, collaborating closely with teachers to plan and deliver activities. Community meetings, informal discussions with parents and teachers, and open invitations to school assemblies ensure clear communication and collaboration.
Parent teacher association
At Montessori House Phuket, the Community Activity Council acts as a bridge between parents and the school, supporting the organisation of community events and celebrations. While there is no formal PTA structure, parents are actively involved in planning and running activities such as astronomy nights, school barbecues, and environmental projects like beach clean-ups. This collaborative approach fosters strong engagement between families and staff. The school encourages parental participation in cultural events and supports informal dialogue between home and school. Parents also contribute to short-stay and open house initiatives, strengthening community ties.
Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The Primary Campus uses the Canadian Alberta curriculum textbooks, examinations, and standardised testing, and incorporates a Creative Montessori Inspired Education model similar to Waldorf education.
Academic & intellectual
Montessori House Phuket International School is a licensed Montessori school on Phuket island, catering to children from Toddlers up to Upper Elementary (ages 2–12) and Secondary (ages 12–18). It is located near Chalong Temple and maintains an average of about 15 children per classroom with two teachers in each classroom, supporting smaller-group interactions and individualized attention. The school provides English-language education.
Arts & creative
Arts & creative
The program includes Music and Art as part of the core offerings and emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning through experiences like rock climbing and team sports.
Arts & creative
The school offers a range of arts and creative activities within its programs, including project-based learning in upper elementary, as well as activities such as art, drama, music, and movement integrated into the timetable.
Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Thai is taught to all students with emphasis on spoken Thai and early introduction to the Thai alphabet and script writing.
Cultural & language
Thai language and culture are integrated into the curriculum across levels. In Children's House, English is the language of instruction with Thai language and culture also emphasized. Lower and upper elementary programs include Thai language study and cultural activities, with foreign students studying Thai as a second language.
Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
A range of after-school activities and sports are available, including rock climbing, basketball, and football.
Social & hobbies
The school emphasizes collaborative and non-competitive learning environments, with opportunities for group work, art, drama, Mandarin, music, and physical education as part of the weekly schedule. The after-school and supplementary activities include a broad range of interests and projects.
Community & service
Community & service
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Community & service
Montessori education at MHP centers on community, independence, and service-minded thinking, with a focus on developing compassionate, contributing members of the school and broader community.
Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional
The team structure includes long-tenured teachers in each program (Kindergarten, Lower Elementary, Upper Elementary) who guide students through staged development within Montessori prepared environments; teacher continuity supports leadership in learning within each class.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Health and wellness are part of the curriculum, supporting physical and mental well-being.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Classrooms are designed to be warm and natural settings that promote happiness and well-being for children, with emphasis on self-directed learning, exploration of the natural world, and healthy routines (including nourishment and scheduled breaks).
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Core study areas English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies are taught in English by a qualified international homeroom teacher, with support for non-native speakers. A Thai language program is provided for all students, emphasizing spoken Thai and the start of the Thai alphabet and script writing. Extra English Language Support (ELS) is offered after school, with two lessons per week for multilingual learners. The Alberta Education framework underpins the curriculum.
Language provision
English is the language of instruction across programs. Thai language and culture are included in the curriculum, with foreign students studying Thai as a Second Language and native Thai speakers studying Thai in depth. Mandarin is offered as a language focus. The school serves ages 2–18: Toddlers to Upper Elementary (ages 2-12) and Secondary (ages 12-18).
Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
The Primary program uses English as the language of instruction for core subjects (Mathematics, English, Science, and Social Studies). A Thai language program is offered for all students, with emphasis on spoken Thai and early Thai script writing. Non-native speakers receive English language support, and students communicate in more than one language.
Bilingual teaching
English is the language of instruction. Thai language and culture are integrated across the program. Mandarin is offered as a language focus. The school serves ages 2–18 across Toddlers to Secondary.
Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
Lighthouse International School Phuket does not list any awards on its official website.
Awards
The school website does not list any awards received by the institution.
Accreditations
Accreditations
Licensed by the Thai Ministry of Education: This means the school is officially authorized to operate and deliver recognized education programmes in Thailand, from Early Years through Secondary levels.
Accredited by the Government of Alberta, Canada: Lighthouse is the first Alberta‑accredited international school in Thailand, allowing students to earn an Alberta High School Diploma, which is recognized globally by universities, especially in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Member of the International Schools Association of Thailand (ISAT): membership indicates alignment with a network of reputable international schools meeting regional quality assurance standards.
Accreditations
Licensed by the Thai Ministry of Education to operate from Kindergarten through Secondary: This licence allows Montessori House Phuket to legally deliver programs up to High School level in Thailand
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
1. Book a school tour (open house or personal visit). If relevant in your correspondence, you'll be invited to visit the campus, meet staff, and see the learning environment.
2. Complete the online enrolment form. This includes student details such as name, date of birth, passport info, grade level, intended start date, and a photo.
3. Attend preliminary assessment and interview. Students take an assessment to evaluate placement needs, followed by an interview with staff or the principal.
4. Submit required documents and pay initial fees. Documents include birth certificate, photos, passport/visa, parent ID, and school reports.
5. Arrange tuition payments. Choose between monthly, termly, or annual payments. Discounts apply to termly and annual options. Payment schedule is fixed once chosen.
6. Finalize placement. Upon completing all steps, students are officially placed into a class. Final approval comes from the Thai School Director.
Admissions
1. Parents begin by contacting the school office, either by phone, email, or in person. At this stage, you request an application form and submit it along with the required application and placement fee. This signals your interest and allows the school to start processing your child’s admission.
2. The school reviews your child’s application, including age placement and available class space. Because classes are intentionally kept small (about 15 students per class), parents should be aware that space may be limited in certain grade levels. If a class is already full, the school may inform you about alternative options or advise you to check back.
3. Once the application is accepted and a place is confirmed, families are required to pay a non-refundable entrance fee. In addition, a refundable deposit is placed into the student’s account. This deposit is held against future charges and is returned when the child leaves, provided all accounts are cleared and school property is returned.
4. Parents must provide necessary paperwork, which typically includes a copy of the child’s passport, immunization records, past school reports (if applicable), and parent/guardian identification. These documents are essential for enrollment and must be completed before the child starts school. Families should also take this opportunity to review optional fees such as lunch or English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) support.
5. Tuition is billed by term and must be paid in advance before the start of each academic term. Families also settle any additional fees, such as lunch or ESL support if needed. Payments can be made by bank transfer, credit card, or cash, with receipts required for confirmation.
6. After financial and administrative steps are complete, the child is officially enrolled. Families are invited to orientation or an introductory meeting where daily routines, classroom practices, and school policies are explained. This step ensures that both the child and parents understand how the Montessori environment works before the first day.
Scholarships
Scholarships
There is no information on the school website about scholarships, financial aid, or merit‑based awards for the Primary School campus on their official site.
Scholarships
There is no mention of scholarship programmes, financial aid, or eligibility criteria on the official website.
Waitlist
Waitlist
The school does not mention any formal waitlist or pool system for Primary School enrolment on their official website.
Waitlist
The school does not mention operating a waitlist, application pool, or priority system for admissions.
