What Is an International School and How Is It Different from Local Schools?

In the interconnected world of today, education is a vital component for training children to be effective in tomorrow's global arenas. International Schooling In ThailandAn increasing number of Thai and expatriate families are considering an International School education for their children. But what, indeed, is an International School and how does it compare to a local school?
These differences ultimately can empower parents to make the best decisions for their child’s educational path.

What Is an International School?
What is an International School An International School follows a curriculum that transcends national boundaries and combines elements of the country in which it is situated with international aspects. An International School (which should not be confused with a typical local school that while in the country it is established also follows the national curriculum of any other) will usually teach:

• The International Baccalaureate (IB)
• The British Curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels)
• The American Curriculum
• Other globally recognized frameworks

The aim of any International School is to create institutions that encourage students to learn and behave in ways associated with good international practise. The individual is to be instilled with the skills of critical thinking, creative thought/self expression and independence as well as an intercultural understanding.

Language of Instruction
One of the greatest contrasts between an International School and a local school is languages in which instruction occurs.
Note: the majority of International Schools in Thailand teach predominantly in English. Students can improve their English language skills through this immersive learning environment, an essential foundation for studying abroad and at international universities.
Schools in Thailand are generally conducted in Thai with English as a second language.

Curriculum and Academic Approach
An International School offers world-class curriculum that is international benchmarked. These curricula emphasize:

• Inquiry-based learning
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Research skills
• Project-based learning
• Independent study

Elsewhere, local schools might want to emphasize elements such as national examinations and standardized tests based on Thailand’s Ministry of Education.
The teaching philosophy in an International School is usually very open and the curriculum is more dynamic - it allows developing students into confident fine independent thinkers.

Cultural Diversity and Global Exposure
Another difference is the mixture that a community of an International School represents. They usually have competitors with different nationalities and multi-countries culture. This multicultural environment promotes:

• Cross-cultural communication
• Respect for diversity
• Global awareness
• Broader perspectives

Local schools are very Thai and they could have a majority of one race or another.
Life at an International School teaches pupils how to succeed in international institutions, whether that be university or their future profession.

Pathways to Higher Education
There are several reasons why you might want to consider an International School for your child: 1) Direct pathways to the world's best universities Many families will elect to go down a route that creates transparent outcomes and values performance above all else. Global qualifications like the IB Diploma, A-Levels and American High School Diplomas are accepted by most of the world’s best universities.
Thailand All local schools in Thailand primarily serve and prepare students for the Thai university system, though that may definitely be changing with international programs becoming available.
For some families who are considering heading overseas for their children’s education, an International School represents a softer transition with more movement options.

Teaching Staff and Learning Environment
Teachers at an International School are typically hired from various countries and with differing educational experience. There will be smaller class sizes, and more individual focus and interactive instruction.
Facilities Program in an International School These include modern science laboratories, creative arts facilities, IT integration and ECA programs.
Although a great many of the international school in Thailand also have excellent facilities and committed staff, the structure and educational approach is often quite diverse.

Which One Is Best for Your Child?
Deciding between an International School and a local school means understanding what a family wants, values and wishes for in the future.
An International School could work well for families who:

• Plan to study at a foreign institution of higher education
• Value a multicultural learning environment
• Prefer English-medium instruction
• Seek internationally recognized qualifications

Local schools might be more convenient for families whose children must speak Thai, adhere to the national curriculum and integrate into the local education system.

Conclusion
An International School provides an education that places emphasis on global learning such that students are well prepared for international challenges. There’s a big difference between an International School and local schools; from the curriculum, language to teaching styles, even how differences are celebrated.
In the end, it is a matter of what parents picture for their child. Families understanding what International Schools offer, they are in the position to make an educated decision about their child’s education in Thailand.