Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Ayutthaya
Summary: If you're moving to Ayutthaya with kids, choosing a school if often your first decisions and impacts where you'll live. Here are some popular bilingual and international schools in Ayutthaya
Ayutthaya, known for its rich history and stunning temples, is not as large as some of the world's major cities, but it does offer a selection of international and bilingual schools catering to expat families. While the options may be more limited compared to larger cities, there are still quality educational institutions within a reasonable driving distance. Two of the most popular schools for expat children in the area are St. Joseph Ayutthaya School, which offers a bilingual curriculum, and Saraburi International School, located a short drive away, providing an international standard of education.
St. Joseph Ayutthaya School
Grades: Kindergarten through Grade 12
Location(s): Ayutthaya
Website: www.sj.ac.th
St. Joseph Ayutthaya School is a well-established bilingual school that offers education from kindergarten to high school. The curriculum is designed to blend Thai and Western educational practices, providing students with a broad and balanced education. The school boasts modern facilities, including science labs, computer rooms, and a library. Extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and art are also emphasized to ensure a well-rounded student experience.
Saraburi International School
Grades: Pre-Nursery through Grade 12
Location(s): Saraburi (within 40 minutes drive from Ayutthaya)
Website: www.sis.edu
Saraburi International School, located within a 40-minute drive from Ayutthaya, offers an international curriculum to students from pre-nursery through to Grade 12. The school follows the Cambridge International Curriculum, preparing students for IGCSEs and A-levels. With state-of-the-art facilities, including a swimming pool, sports fields, and science labs, the school is equipped to provide a high-quality education. A wide range of extracurricular activities is available to support students' interests and talents outside the classroom.
Heathfield International School
Grades: Nursery through Year 13
Location(s): Viphavadi-Rangsit Road, Bangkok (within 40 minutes drive from Ayutthaya)
Website: www.heathfield.ac.th
Heathfield International School is another option for families living in Ayutthaya, offering a British-style education from nursery up to Year 13. The school follows the English National Curriculum, leading to IGCSEs and A-level qualifications. Facilities include a performing arts center, sports complex, and ICT suites. The school also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports teams to music and drama clubs, to enrich students' educational experiences.
Ascot International School
Grades: Nursery through Year 13
Location(s): Ramkhamhaeng Road, Bangkok (within 40 minutes drive from Ayutthaya)
Website: www.ascot.ac.th
Ascot International School is accessible from Ayutthaya and provides an international education based on the British curriculum. The school serves students from nursery through to Year 13 and offers the IB Diploma Programme in the final two years. Ascot prides itself on its multicultural environment, modern facilities, and a strong emphasis on both academic and personal development. The school's extracurricular program includes a variety of sports, arts, and cultural activities.
Horizon Village & Resort Chiang Mai
Grades: Preschool through Grade 12
Location(s): Chiang Mai (Note: This is a considerable distance from Ayutthaya but included for those willing to relocate within Thailand)
Website: www.horizonvillage.net
While Horizon Village & Resort Chiang Mai is not within a 40-minute drive from Ayutthaya, it is an option for those expats who are considering a move within Thailand and are looking for an international school experience. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on environmental education and sustainability. Facilities include botanical gardens, a cultural center, and traditional Thai houses used as learning spaces. The school's unique setting and approach to education make it a distinctive choice for families.
Please note that while some schools listed may be beyond the 40-minute driving distance from Ayutthaya, they are included to provide a broader perspective on the international schooling options available to families who are flexible with their living arrangements within Thailand.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.