Education
Education in Phuket and What to Expect
Phuket has a mix of public, private, and international schools. Local Thai schools follow the national curriculum (taught in Thai), but most expat families choose international or bilingual schools. These offer British, American, French, Finnish, or Montessori-style education, usually in English or a mix of languages.
Most international schools run from preschool all the way through high school, with globally recognized diplomas like IGCSE, IB, or AP. Campuses tend to be modern, with smaller classes, creative programs, and a strong focus on well-being, plus the bonus of being surrounded by nature and eternal summer. Whether you’re here short-term or settling in long-term, Phuket’s school scene has plenty to offer.
Read more
Choosing International Schools in Phuket
Phuket has one of the largest concentrations of international schools in Thailand, which means real choice, but also a real decision to make. Before browsing the list below, it helps to understand what actually separates one school from another.
Curriculum Options
Most international schools in Phuket follow a British, American, or International Baccalaureate curriculum, with a smaller number offering French, Finnish, or Montessori approaches. British curriculum schools typically lead to IGCSEs at sixteen and A Levels at eighteen. IB schools follow a single continuous programme from early years through to the IB Diploma, which some families prefer for its consistency if they expect to move countries again. American curriculum schools tend to suit families planning an eventual return to the US education system. None of these is objectively better than another, the right fit depends on where your child is likely to study next.
What International Schools in Phuket Cost
Fees vary significantly by age and school. Early years and primary places generally start lower, while secondary places at the island’s larger schools such as BISP or UWC can run from 420,000 THB per year up to over 1,000,000 THB per year depending on the school and year group. Smaller bilingual options, including Kinderville’s campuses, tend to sit at a lower price point for younger children. School fees are usually the single largest expense in a family’s relocation budget, so it is worth confirming costs directly with shortlisted schools before committing to a lease or a start date.
How to Choose the Right School
Location matters more than most families expect before they arrive. Schools in the north, around Cherng Talay and Bang Tao, suit families settling in that area, while options in Chalong and Rawai serve the south better. Daily commute time adds up quickly if you choose a school on the opposite side of the island from where you live. Beyond location, it is worth visiting shortlisted schools in person where possible, checking class sizes, and asking directly about waitlists, since some of the more established international schools in Phuket fill up well in advance of the academic year.
For a fuller picture of how school choice fits into the wider move, our guide to moving to Phuket with your family covers neighbourhoods, costs, and visas alongside education.


