Moving to a new country can be daunting but finding a new school should have to be. When relocating to a place like Bangkok, good news—there are plenty of educational places to choose from. Each boasts the latest and greatest, but there are a few things to think about before searching for schools. By researching and setting your own boundaries, you will find a place that is a perfect fit for you and your family.
Stay Close to Home
Bangkok is a large city and transportation is excellent, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the most congested cities in the world. When choosing an international school, look within your neighborhood first. It’s good for children to be close to home if there are any issues, and it is just one thing that helps make your commute that much easier.
Decide On Your Curriculum First
Many curriculums come from Western countries around the world that are seen as global leaders. When looking for a new international school in Bangkok, decide on which curriculum you’d like, then search for schools. Knowing which curriculum you prefer will help narrow down your search options. However, don’t set this idea into stone—you may find excellent schools nearby that offer more than you would think is possible!
Talk To the Teaching Staff
One thing that is important and often overlooked is the staff that will take care of your child. Forget about the front office and skip the conversation with the head of school—the teachers are the ones that should be your biggest concern. These individuals will have the most contact with your children and should be considered the heart of any school. If the teachers are willing to talk to you and seem genuinely happy about the environment, then chances are, you’ve found a good school. Unhappy teachers often hint at an unhappy working environment, which is the last place you want your child to be.
Changing schools or finding a new school can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Before visiting any school, research it first and come prepared with questions. A good school will welcome and encourage these questions, because they understand that you want what is best for your child. Ask about the facilities around the school and after-school options for your children. Take a look at the cafeteria to see what types of lunches to expect. With the right amount of dedication and patience, the perfect school is just around the corner.