Compare Affordable International Schools in Surat thani, Thailand

Lamai International School is located in Maret, on the southern part of Koh Samui island in Surat Thani Province, Thailand. The school is situated close to the island’s main road network, providing access to nearby residential areas and amenities. Its setting on Koh Samui offers a quieter learning environment within a well-connected community.

The school is organised into Early Years (ages 3–5), Primary (Years 1–6, ages 5–11), and Lower Secondary (Years 7–9, ages 11–14). Each stage follows age-appropriate curricula, starting with EYFS in Early Years and progressing into the Cambridge Primary and Secondary frameworks.

Lamai International School is a co-educational day school. It does not provide boarding facilities, but it does offer optional after-school activities and transport.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding provisions for Special Educational Needs (SEN) or additional learning support on its website.

The school has no national affiliation but follows the UK-based Cambridge curriculum.

The school does not have any religious affiliation.

The day begins at 08:35 with flag and registration, followed by lessons through the morning. Lunch takes place around midday, with classes continuing into the afternoon. Extracurricular activities are offered from 15:10 to 16:00 on Monday to Thursday, while Fridays finish earlier without activities.

Transportation is available for families, with the option to arrange bus service for students. The school mentions transport availability on its class information pages, although details about providers, routes, and fees are not publicly specified.

Lamai International School delivers the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) through a Montessori approach in Foundation 1–2, for children aged 3–5. From Year 1 onward, students follow the Cambridge Primary Curriculum, covering English, Mathematics, and Science alongside a broad range of foundation subjects. In Years 7–9, the school transitions to the Cambridge Lower Secondary Curriculum, continuing the focus on English, Mathematics, and Science with added depth in global perspectives and creative subjects. Learning is conducted in English, with Thai taught as an additional subject. The school also integrates an Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) programme, inspired by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which develops social-emotional learning, environmental awareness, and responsible citizenship. This combination gives students both a structured international qualification pathway and opportunities for applied, real-world learning.

The school integrates Social and Emotional Learning within its Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) programme. This framework is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and includes social-emotional learning as a core component. Students are encouraged to develop empathy, responsibility, and collaborative skills alongside academic knowledge. Activities are designed to promote values, attitudes, and skills for sustainable living. Specific staff roles dedicated to SEL are not mentioned, but the programme is embedded across the curriculum.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding provisions for students with Special Educational Needs. There are no details available on specialised staff, facilities, or programmes for SEN support. Lamai International School does not present itself as a specialist SEN institution.

Lamai International School provides support for students with weaker English ability through ESL lessons during the school day. Students may be withdrawn from class to work individually with teachers, focusing on building confidence and addressing skill gaps. In addition, the school offers free extra English lessons between 3:10 pm and 4:00 pm on selected days during the week. These provisions are designed to help students progress in English and participate fully in the Cambridge curriculum.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding mental wellbeing programmes, staff, or initiatives. While social and emotional learning is embedded in the ESD framework, no dedicated mental health provision is specified.

The school website notes several general safety measures. These include 24-hour security supervision, health and safety instruction, and supervision by teachers and staff during the school day. A nurse is available to administer physician-prescribed medication or paracetamol, and in emergencies parents are notified and children are transported to hospital if needed. Beyond these measures, no additional safeguarding or child protection policies are publicly detailed.

1. Parents can contact the school directly by phone or email to express interest in admission. The school provides application materials such as a comparison chart and a downloadable application form. Families are encouraged to begin this process at least two months before the September intake.

2. Completed applications must be submitted to the school office along with the required documents. The school accepts applications throughout the year, particularly to accommodate families relocating to Koh Samui outside the main intake period.

3. Where possible, families are invited to visit the campus. This allows parents to tour facilities, ask questions, and meet with staff to better understand the curriculum and teaching approach. This step is especially helpful for families new to international education in Thailand.

4. Once a student is offered a place, parents must pay the required tuition fees by the specified deadline. Payments can be made by cash or bank transfer, and proof of payment must be submitted to the school office. Students may not attend classes until fees have been paid in full.

The school does not publicly disclose offering any scholarships or financial aid. No information is available regarding eligibility or scholarship schemes.

The school does not publicly disclose the use of a waitlist or pool system.

Daniel International School is located in Ban Bo Chalok, Thung Kong, Kanchanadit District, Surat Thani Province, southern Thailand. The campus sits near the Tapi River, a short drive from Surat Thani city. The area is peaceful and residential, with access to regional road networks. Its position in southern Thailand makes it accessible for families relocating to this part of the country.

The school currently offers education from Early Years (Nursery and Kindergarten) through Primary and Middle School (Grades 1–8). In the 2025–26 school year, it will expand to include Grade 9, marking the start of its High School program.

Daniel International School is a co-educational day school. For families living outside of Surat Thani, it also offers a Boarding Family Program, where students stay with trained host families during the week or full-time.

The school states that basic SEN support is included in tuition. However, it does not publicly provide further details about specific provisions, specialist staff, or the range of needs it can support.

The school is independent and does not have a formal affiliation with any one country, though its curriculum is based on American standards with international elements.

The school has a Christian affiliation, and Religion & Ethics classes are taught from a Christian worldview.

The school has not publicly disclosed its exact daily timetable, including start and finish times, lunch, or breaks.

The website does not mention a general school bus service for day students. However, students enrolled in the Boarding Family Program receive daily transport to and from school as part of the arrangement with host families.

Boarding is arranged through the Boarding Family Program for students who live outside Surat Thani city. Host families care for the child's physical, mental, and spiritual needs and may provide an English or Chinese language environment. The program includes WIFI, a personal study desk, air conditioning, breakfast and dinner daily, and transportation to and from school if needed. Boarding fees are 90,000 Baht per term for weekdays only; weekend stays cost an extra 1,000 Baht per day; everyday boarding costs 126,000 Baht per term.

DIS has uniforms. Uniforms are required and are available for purchase after tuition fees are paid. Details are provided in the DIS Uniforms brochure.

Lunch is not included in tuition; lunch is charged at the start of each semester at 100 Baht per day, and students may bring lunch from home. The Boarding Program provides breakfast and dinner daily, with lunch at school available for an additional cost.

Daniel International School follows an international program based on American Common Core Standards, adapted with elements from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, China, and Thailand. The Early Years (Nursery and Kindergarten) focus on play-based, inquiry-led learning. Primary (Grades 1–4) and Middle School (Grades 5–8) emphasize concept-driven study, performance-based assessments, and integration of STEAM subjects such as robotics, coding, design, and the arts. High School begins with Grade 9 in 2025–26, with a program that expands to Grades 11–12 and prepares students for Advanced Placement (AP) examinations. Instruction is delivered in English, with additional subjects in Thai Language & Culture, Mandarin Chinese, Arts, Physical Education, and Religion & Ethics. The school’s curriculum is designed to provide continuity from Early Years through to senior grades, blending academic study with creative and technological development.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding SEL provision, initiatives, or programmes.

The school’s published tuition information states that basic SEN support is included in the tuition fees. However, it does not provide details about the types of SEN needs supported, specific staff roles, or tailored programmes. Daniel International School is not described as a specialist SEN institution. Additional SEN support beyond the school’s standard provisions is listed as an extra cost. No further information is available on the scope of support.

The school provides English as a Second Language (ESL) support as part of the curriculum. It also uses WIDA assessments to monitor and track the progress of English language learners. However, the school does not publish detailed information about the structure, staffing, or extent of its EAL programmes.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding mental wellbeing programmes, counselling staff, or other wellbeing-focused initiatives.

The school does not publicly disclose information regarding safeguarding or child protection policies, procedures, or designated staff.

1. Parents can contact the school directly via email, phone, or Line OA (@danielschool) to arrange an information session or campus tour. This first step allows families to learn about the school’s curriculum, facilities, and admissions requirements.

2. Families complete the application form online or in person and submit the required documentation. At this stage, the non-refundable application/screening fee of THB 5,000 must also be paid before moving forward.

3. Applicants are scheduled for an in-person screening assessment. For overseas families, an online interview can be arranged as an alternative. The screening process evaluates the child’s readiness and placement suitability within the school’s grade structure.

4. An interview with the Head of School or senior staff is scheduled following the assessment. This provides an opportunity for the family to ask questions and for the school to better understand the student’s needs and background.

5. Once assessments and interviews are complete, the school notifies families of the admission decision. If accepted, parents confirm the place by paying the entrance fee and initial tuition payment, after which uniforms and other essentials can be arranged.

6. The final stage includes completing any outstanding documentation, attending an orientation meeting, and preparing the student to join classes. Orientation helps families and students adjust smoothly to the new school environment.

Daniel International School offers a need-based scholarship for Thai nationals applying to Grades 5–9 in the 2025/2026 academic year. The scholarship can cover up to 100% of required fees, including tuition, entrance, meals, and other compulsory charges. To qualify, applicants must hold Thai nationality, have attended a Thai school for the previous two years, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 before applying and at least 2.5 after acceptance. Applications are accepted from January to May 2025, and awards are reviewed each year to ensure that recipients continue to meet academic and school standards.

If a student successfully passes the admissions assessment but no seat is currently available, they are placed on a waiting list. The student is offered a place once space becomes available in the relevant year group. The school does not operate a pool system.

Suratthani International School is situated in Surat Thani, southern Thailand, about ten minutes by car from the city center. The city is a regional hub on the Gulf of Thailand, with ferry connections to nearby islands such as Koh Samui and domestic air links to Bangkok. The school’s setting provides a balance between access to local transport routes and a quieter residential environment.

The school admits children from early years through the end of primary. Programmes begin from preschool (around age 2) and continue through Grade 6, covering kindergarten and primary school levels.

STIS is a co-educational day school. It does not provide boarding facilities, so students commute daily from the surrounding area.

The school operates an English Language Support (ELS) programme with tiered levels of assistance, delivered either within regular lessons or in small group sessions. A Learning Support Coordinator oversees provision for academic, emotional, and social needs, and a Pastoral Counsellor (psychologist) is available when required.

The school does not have an official affiliation with any one country. Its curriculum is based on the California State/Common Core standards and it is a Candidate School for the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP).

The school has no formal religious affiliation.

The academic year runs from mid-August to mid-June, split into two terms. The school day starts in the morning and ends in the mid-afternoon, with lunch and short breaks built into the timetable. After-school care is available until 16:45 for younger students.

The school website does not provide information about a school bus or coach service.

Students must have school, PE, and house uniforms, which are available for purchase at the STIS shop.

School lunches are included in the tuition fees.

The school operates a house system; house uniforms are required and available for purchase at the STIS shop.

The school is an IB Candidate School and is accredited by WASC and Cognia; ONESQA accreditation is held.

Suratthani International School follows the California State/Common Core curriculum, providing a structured programme from early years through the end of primary. The school is also a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP), reflecting its focus on inquiry-based learning in the early and primary stages. Core subjects include English, mathematics, science, and social studies, taught in English as the language of instruction. Mandarin is offered as a compulsory additional language, and Thai is taught in line with Ministry of Education requirements. Learning is supported by specialist facilities such as an ICT Studio, Science Studio, Creative Arts Studio, and a Music and Dance Studio. Student progress in English and mathematics is benchmarked against international standards using MAP Growth testing from Grade 2 onwards.

STIS incorporates social and emotional development into daily school life through class activities and pastoral support. The school provides a Learning Support Coordinator who monitors students’ academic, emotional, and social needs. When necessary, a Pastoral Counsellor, who is a trained psychologist, offers additional support. Students also participate in meditation retreats held in collaboration with local groups, which encourages mindfulness and reflection. These activities are integrated alongside academic programmes to help students build confidence and resilience.

STIS supports students with additional learning needs through an in-school Learning Support Coordinator. The Coordinator works with classroom teachers to provide strategies and adjustments within lessons. For more complex needs, the school arranges individual or small-group sessions. A psychologist is available to support emotional and behavioural development where needed. STIS is not a specialist SEN institution, but it provides targeted support for students with mild to moderate learning or social-emotional needs.

The school offers a structured English Language Support (ELS) programme for students requiring additional help in English. Support is organised into tiers, with the most intensive level (Tier 3) providing focused small-group or individual instruction. Lessons can be scheduled during school hours or after school, depending on the student’s needs. Specialist ELS instructors deliver the programme, aiming to help students integrate into mainstream classes effectively.

Mental wellbeing is supported through the pastoral care system, which includes the Learning Support Coordinator and Pastoral Counsellor. Students can access individual guidance and counselling when needed. The school promotes wellbeing through structured activities such as meditation retreats, cultural events, and outdoor learning opportunities. Staff are encouraged to identify concerns early and refer students to additional support where required.

STIS outlines policies to ensure student safety and child protection. The school provides accident insurance that covers incidents during school hours and activities. A designated staff structure exists for pastoral care, ensuring that safeguarding responsibilities are clearly defined. Students take part in supervised residential trips, camps, and after-school activities where safety measures are in place. The school states that all fees and deposits must be cleared before a student withdraws, which ensures proper documentation and accountability.

1. Initial Inquiry and Application: Families begin by submitting an application form along with the required supporting documents. Thai citizens must provide identification and a birth certificate, while expatriates are asked to provide passports, visas, and previous school records.

2. Testing and Assessment: Applicants are scheduled for a suitability test, which varies by grade level. These assessments evaluate academic readiness and language ability, helping the school place students in the correct programme.

3. Admission Fee and Deposit: Once an applicant is accepted, parents are asked to pay the admission and deposit fees. This step secures the student’s place before the first day of school.

4. Enrollment Confirmation: The school confirms placement after the required documents and fees are submitted. Families are then provided with start-date details, orientation information, and access to uniforms and the school shop.

The school does not publicly disclose information about scholarships or financial aid opportunities.

STIS operates a waitlist system when classes are full. Parents must complete registration in order to be placed on the waiting list. If a place becomes available within a year, the family is invited to proceed with admission. If no place becomes available, the registration is refunded.