What Are the Different High School Systems in Phuket?
If you have teens heading into high school (or already in), this one’s for you.
If not — feel free to skip ahead. There are plenty of other posts here for you.
So — you’ve decided to live abroad for a few years with kids in 10th grade and up?
Here’s the tough love: do it properly.
No more “we’ll figure it out when we get there.”
This isn’t Israel.
And that attitude? It got you as far as the airport.
Step 1: Register ahead of time.
That’ll also help you handle your visas.
Step 2: Get report cards and certificates translated to English now.
Step 3: Talk to someone who understands the system.
(It doesn’t have to be me — but someone.)
A Quick Grade Comparison:
| British | American | Israeli |
| Year 1 | K3 | Gan Chova |
| Year 2 | Grade 1 | Kita Aleph |
| Year 13 | Grade 12 | Yud Bet |
The IB System (International Baccalaureate)
Think of it like Bagrut, but broader.
It includes 6 subject groups:
- Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Math
- Foreign Language
- Mother Tongue
- Arts
Students must:
- Choose 1 subject from each group
- Take 3 subjects at higher level, 3 at standard level
- Complete 3 core requirements:
- A 4,000-word essay (research-based)
- A Theory of Knowledge course (critical thinking)
- A self-enrichment project (service, sports, or creativity)
Those who complete everything earn the IB Diploma — recognized by top universities worldwide.
Best to start in Grade 9
Switching systems is hard.
If your teen can’t start IB from Grade 9, it’s still possible — but it’s a tougher adjustment.
Phuket Schools That Offer IB:
- UWC Thailand – full IB program from early years
@uwcthailand - Oak Meadow Thailand – full IB track
@oakmeadowthailand
(I have a whole post about them) - BIS Phuket – IB only for Grades 11–12
@bisphuket
(Earlier years follow a different system — more on that in a separate post)
Bottom line:
Plan ahead. Choose the system carefully.
And yes — every family’s situation is different.
