Raffles American School Bangkok vs Aster International School Bangkok

Raffles American School Bangkok is located in Samut Prakan province, just east of central Bangkok along the Bang Na–Trat frontage road. The school is situated in a suburban area with residential communities and international businesses nearby. It's easily accessible by private car and sits close to major expressways, making school drop-off and pick-up manageable for commuting families. The surrounding area is quiet, with access to amenities such as shopping malls, restaurants, and international housing.

The school is organized into four main divisions: Early Childhood (Pre-K to Kindergarten), Elementary School (Grades 1–5), Middle School (Grades 6–8), and High School (Grades 9–12). This structure provides a continuous educational pathway for children from age 2 up to 18.

Raffles American School Bangkok is a co-educational school.

The school does not publicly list any specialized services or programs for students with Additional Learning Needs. There is no mention of specific facilities or trained staff for learning support on its website.

The school is not affiliated with any country.

The school has no religious affiliations.

The website does not publish details on how the school day is structured.

Regular Uniform and PE Uniform are required in Early Years through High School. Optional items include a School Cap and a School Jacket.

The school provides on-site meals via Sodexo, the food service provider.

The school is part of the Raffles Education Group and is governed by Raffles Education Limited.

Here’s a clear and friendly overview of the curriculum offering at Raffles American School Bangkok, based strictly on information from the school’s official materials:

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Curriculum Overview

Raffles follows a U.S.-based American curriculum aligned with Common Core standards in English and Math, Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for Science, and AERO for Social Studies. In Early Childhood through Elementary, learning is experiential, covering literacy (using frameworks like the 6+1 Trait Writing and Daily 5), numeracy, science, arts, physical education, music, and world languages. In Middle School, students rotate between specialist teachers in subject areas including language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, performing and visual arts, PE, health, and technology. High School (Grades 9–12) culminates in the award of a U.S. High School Diploma, with students from Grade 10 onward selecting from a range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Starting in the upcoming academic year, the IB Diploma Programme (DP) will be introduced for Grades 11 and 12, while Grade 10 students may sample AP Psychology. The school embeds General Learning Outcomes—such as communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills—at every level.

The school embeds General Learning Outcomes across all grade levels, including self-awareness, emotional wellbeing, relationships (like conflict resolution and mediation), and community responsibility. There’s no detailed public information about dedicated SEL staff members or specific initiatives beyond this framework.

The school does not publicly disclose any information regarding support for Special Educational Needs (SEN).

RAS follows the WIDA-based ELL (English Language Learner) Curriculum and Assessment, covering reading, writing, listening, and speaking. They administer baseline assessments at the beginning, middle, and end of the year to guide student placement within the ELL program.

There is no specific information published about mental wellbeing programs, counselling staff, or dedicated initiatives.

The school mentions that it maintains a safe and clean environment and enforces health and safety protocols. However, it does not publicly disclose any detailed safeguarding or child protection policies. No further information is provided regarding designated staff, training, or reporting procedures.

1. Initial Visit & Inquiry
Begin by visiting the school or contacting the Admissions Office. You can arrange to meet the Head of School or Director in person—or connect online via email, phone, or the Line app if visiting isn’t possible. An open-door policy is offered for visits by appointment.

2. Submit Application Materials
Complete and submit the Application Form, Admission Requirement Checklist, Authorization to Release School Records form, and Informed Consent from the previous school. Include two passport-sized photos, a copy of the student’s passport or Thai ID, up to three years of academic records (translated into English if needed), standardized test results or evaluations, and a confidential recommendation from the current school. These can be submitted online or via mail, email, or in person.

3. Evaluation & Interview
Once your application is complete, the school typically processes it within five working days. Then, the student will undergo evaluation, screening, and an interview designed to assess English and math proficiency. Pre‑K and Kindergarten applicants have a parent interview and child engagement activity. Interviews can be held in person or via Skype; if remote applicants can't participate, offers may be conditional on in‑person evaluation later.

4. Application Outcome
If accepted, the school will send a formal Offer of Admission by email, followed by a tuition invoice and a welcome letter from the Head of School outlining next steps.

The school’s official website does not mention any scholarships or financial aid programs.

When an applicant meets the admissions requirements but the requested grade level or program is already full, that applicant is placed in a wait pool.

Aster International School is situated in the Chong Nonsi area, on Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra Road in central Bangkok. The campus is housed in purpose-built modern facilities close to local amenities and accessible via main city roads.

The school caters to students from Early Years Foundation Stage, Primary & Lower Secondary, and Upper Secondary leading to IGCSEs, A-Levels, or a high school diploma.

Aster is a co-educational day school with no boarding facilities.

Students receive tailored support plans based on assessments, ensuring that learners with diverse needs can fully participate in classroom activities.

The school is not affiliated with any country.

Aster is not affiliated with any religion. The school welcomes students from diverse faiths and backgrounds.

The school does not have publicly available information on their day structure.

The school does not offer a bus service.

The school provides snack and lunch; meals are nutritious and a balanced diet with local and international dishes. Halal, vegetarian, and allergy accommodations are available. Meals are served in a spacious, air-conditioned canteen.

The school is accredited by ONESQA and affiliated with ISAT, GBAC, FOBISIA, and Cambridge International Examinations to offer IGCSEs and A Levels. It is accredited by the Education Development Trust and holds the International School Quality Mark.

Aster International School offers a British-style curriculum with an emphasis on real-world learning and student engagement. The early years program is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and focuses on communication, personal development, and basic skills through play.

In primary and lower secondary, Aster blends the English National Curriculum with project-based learning. Students explore core subjects like English, math, and science through interdisciplinary projects that also incorporate art, languages, and physical education. Specialist subjects include Mandarin, French, and Thai, with lessons adapted to student needs.

In the upper secondary years, students prepare for IGCSEs and A-Level examinations while also having the option to complete a high school diploma. Instruction becomes more focused on subject specialization, and students are encouraged to develop academic responsibility. Outside the classroom, Aster supports learning through enrichment clubs, sports, language classes, and Thai cultural activities.

Aster approaches SEL through project‑based and experiential learning, enabling students to work in teams, present ideas, and solve real-world challenges. This method naturally builds emotional awareness, empathy, and collaboration.

Aster does not have a dedicated SEN programme.

The school does offer EAL.

The school does not have publicly available information on their mental wellbeing support.

Aster International School’s safeguarding policy ensures that every child is protected and supported within a safe environment. The policy is based on Thai law and international child rights agreements. A designated committee oversees all safeguarding matters, and all staff are required to report concerns using official forms. Staff must follow clear rules for professional conduct, communication, and student interactions to prevent risks and maintain student safety.

The policy outlines how to respond to student disclosures with care, and emphasizes confidentiality during investigations. All school staff undergo background checks and child protection screenings during hiring. The policy also defines types of abuse and helps staff recognize warning signs. Clear procedures are in place to ensure concerns are reported, investigated, and handled appropriately.

1. Book a Tour & Informal Introduction
Families are invited for a school tour to explore the campus, meet staff, and understand the British-style enhanced curriculum and school values.

2. Submit Application & Documents
Download and complete the application form, then submit it along with required documents, such as:

Child’s passport or birth certificate
Parent(s)’ passport or Thai ID
Immunization record
Recent transcripts (if applicable)

3. Selection Process
Applications are reviewed, and qualifying candidates may be invited to participate in an entrance exam and/or interview.

4. Notification & Offer
Families receive admissions decisions shortly after selection. Offers are made for available seats.

5. Enrollment & Fee Payment
Upon acceptance, families must confirm enrollment by paying requested fees and completing registration protocols.

The school does not have publicly available information on their scholarships.

The school does not have a waitlist.