Curriculum options available at international schools in Thailand

International schools in Thailand offer a wide range of educational curriculums, each designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in their future studies or career paths. These curriculums include the International Baccalaureate (IB), Cambridge International Examinations (CIE), and American, British, and French curriculums. Each curriculum has its own strengths and focuses, such as the development of critical thinking skills, problem-solving, and communication, as well as the acquisition of knowledge and a well-rounded education. By providing these different curriculums, international schools in Thailand ensure that their students are prepared to take on the challenges of the 21st century and are ready for success in higher education and beyond.

International Baccalaureate (IB)

The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an advanced and comprehensive academic program designed to prepare students for success in higher education and beyond. The IB curriculum is recognized and respected by universities and employers around the world, making it a great choice for students who wish to pursue higher education abroad. The comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of subjects, including language and literature, mathematics, science, and foreign languages.

The program is divided into three levels, each of which requires a different level of commitment and effort from the student. The Middle Years Programme (MYP) is for students ages 11 to 16, the Diploma Programme (DP) is for 16 to 19-year-olds, and the Career-related Programme (CP) is designed for students ages 16 to 19 who are looking to specialize in a specific field. All of the IB programmes emphasize international-mindedness and emphasize the importance of understanding different cultures and perspectives. IB schools in Thailand strive to develop well-rounded students who are globally minded and prepared to take on the challenges of the 21st century.

Cambridge International Examinations (CIE)

Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) is an internationally recognized and respected curriculum that is offered in many international schools in Thailand. CIE provides a wide variety of qualifications, such as the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International A-Level, which are accepted by universities and employers in over 160 countries around the world.

With its rigorous standards, CIE ensures that students are prepared for higher education and for a successful career. It also provides a solid foundation for the development of students’ knowledge, understanding, and skills. With its focus on the development of students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, CIE enables students to become well-rounded individuals who are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the modern world.

American Curriculum

The American curriculum is a comprehensive educational system that is built upon the National Education Standards of the United States. This curriculum is designed to prepare students for higher education in the United States and is also recognized by many international universities and employers. It is becoming increasingly popular in Thailand, as more students are looking to pursue higher education abroad.

The American curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills, creativity, and problem solving. This encourages students to think outside the box, develop their own ideas, and become problem solvers. It also focuses on the development of communication and collaboration skills, teaching students to work with others and move beyond their comfort zone. In addition, it promotes the use of technology and digital media, helping students become proficient with the tools they will use in their future studies.

The American curriculum also provides a well-rounded education, with courses in the core subjects of math, science, history, and English. It also includes electives that focus on the student’s interests and talents, such as art, music, foreign languages, and computer science. By providing a comprehensive education, it ensures that students have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in college and beyond.

British Curriculum

The British curriculum is a comprehensive and rigorous education system which provides strong foundations in literacy, numeracy and science, as well as teaching a wide range of subjects such as history, geography, art and music. It provides students with the opportunity to reach their potential by developing critical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills. The curriculum also covers the development of a student’s understanding of and respect for cultural diversity and encourages the development of a sense of responsibility and social awareness.

In addition to the core subjects, the British curriculum offers a wide range of elective courses, such as physical education, computer science, economics, and business studies. These courses can be tailored to meet the individual needs and interests of students, and many schools offer additional opportunities such as field trips, extra-curricular activities, and special projects.

The British curriculum is accepted by universities and employers around the world and provides a strong foundation for further study. It is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed both at university and in their future careers.

Thai Curriculum

The Thai curriculum is comprehensive, covering all core subjects, such as Maths, Science, Social Studies, and the Arts, as well as Thai language, culture, and civics. The curriculum focuses on critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, as well as the acquisition of knowledge. It also includes physical education, music, and art.

The curriculum is divided into five levels, from lower primary to upper secondary. It is designed to develop student’s learning skills, analytical thinking, and creativity, as well as to cultivate their appreciation for Thai culture and heritage. The curriculum is regularly updated to keep up with the changing needs of students and society.

In addition to the core curriculum, international schools in Thailand also offer additional courses, such as English as a second language, information technology, and life skills. This allows students to develop a well-rounded education that will prepare them for success in their future higher education or career paths.

French Curriculum

The French curriculum is comprised of the core subjects of mathematics, French language and literature, science, geography, history and philosophy. It also typically includes music, physical education, and art. Depending on the particular school, students may also be able to study additional languages, such as Thai, Mandarin, Spanish and German.

In order to ensure students are prepared for higher education in France, the curriculum is designed to include plenty of advanced courses and independent study. This includes research-based coursework and the ability to write lengthy essays in order to demonstrate mastery of the subject. Additionally, students are expected to demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the French language, both written and spoken.

At the end of the program, students are assessed through a series of exams. These exams are used to determine if they have the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully enter higher education. Depending on the school, the exams may be offered in both French and English.

In conclusion, each of the international curriculums offered in Thailand have their own unique benefits and advantages. The International Baccalaureate (IB) and Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) are both highly respected and recognized qualifications that prepare students for higher education and a successful career. The American, British, French and Thai curriculums are all designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their future studies and career paths. No matter which curriculum a student chooses, it is important to ensure that it provides the appropriate skills and knowledge for their future goals.

You may also check out our article on Top International Schools in Sukhumvit – and what is unique about them.