Establishing Thailand as a New Hub for International Education in Asia
Siam Motors Group and the Pornprapa family have partnered with Highgate School UK, one of the UK’s most prestigious and award-winning independent schools, to launch Highgate International School Thailand, the first Highgate campus outside the United Kingdom. Strategically located near Siam Country Club in Chonburi, this new international school aims to deliver world-class British education to students across Southeast Asia.
The school will follow the English National Curriculum, preparing students for IGCSEs and A Levels, providing a strong academic foundation for entry into leading universities worldwide. Highgate International School Thailand is set to open in August 2026 for Pre-Nursery to Year 6, with plans to expand to secondary levels by 2027 and to offer boarding facilities in the near future.
Khun Thanyaporn Pornprapa Tangkaravakoon, Chair of the Board at Highgate International School Thailand, shared that the school was born from a desire to create an inspiring learning environment that fosters both potential and happiness for every child. With that vision, Siam Motors Group collaborated with Highgate School UK to establish Highgate Thailand in a high-potential location near Siam Country Club, Chonburi.
Highgate International School Thailand is designed to incorporate the philosophy and core values of the UK’s education system, adapted to the local and regional context. It emphasizes delivering a globally recognized educational experience to both Thai and international students, with a strong academic foundation based on the British National Curriculum, covering early years through secondary education. Students will be prepared for IGCSE and A Level qualifications.
The school will feature internationally qualified teachers, particularly from the UK, who will be rigorously selected and assessed under Highgate UK standards to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality education. A holistic teaching approach will support students’ academic, emotional, and social development, with a strong emphasis on critical thinking, curiosity, and inspirational learning beyond the classroom.
With a maximum student capacity of 1,400 and an age range of 2 to 18 years, the school will initially welcome Pre-Nursery to Primary students, and will later expand to include secondary levels and boarding facilities.
To achieve its vision of becoming a leading international school in Asia, Highgate Thailand has established the following:
Vision: To provide an inspiring, deep, and real-world-connected education.
Mission: To nurture curious, courageous, and compassionate students who contribute to a thriving community.
Core Values:
Curiosity & Academic Excellence – A love of learning, open-minded exploration, and continuous self and institutional improvement.
Engagement & Enthusiasm – Active participation in every opportunity, with the belief that attitude and action can drive growth.
Relationships & Compassion – A caring environment that values teamwork, empathy, and positive contributions to the world.
All of this is encapsulated in the school’s motto: “Together, we learn beyond boundaries.”
Mr. Adam Pettitt, Head of Highgate School UK, emphasized the school’s commitment to exceptional teaching, stating: “Our teachers are the heart of our school. They must bring not only knowledge and understanding of children, but also genuine passion for teaching. What defines our academic team is not just the facilities, but a culture of care, accountability, and strong relationships with students, families, and the school community. We believe that childhood is precious and are committed to nurturing well-rounded development for every child.”
Mr. Ben Keeling, Founding Head of Highgate International School Thailand, added: “Highgate Thailand will build upon Highgate’s 460-year heritage to create a learning environment that inspires curiosity, passion, and responsibility. We aim to develop students into globally competent citizens, prepared for leading universities and equipped for life. Education here is not just content—it’s a compass that guides students on their personal and academic journeys. Our students will grow intellectually, emotionally, culturally, and practically, ready to thrive as compassionate and globally aware individuals.”
The official launch event also featured a panel discussion on “Shaping Future-Ready Minds,” with guest speakers including Pam Pranapda Pornprapa, Paula Taylor, and Matthew Deane, who shared their perspectives on building a future-focused educational foundation.
Highgate International School Thailand is now open for applications. For more information, visit: www.highgateschoolthailand.com or follow Highgate International School Thailand on Facebook.
