When we first considered relocating to Koh Samui, education was our biggest concern. Like many expat families, we worried about finding a school that could deliver academic consistency, personal growth, and cultural integration for our children. What we didn’t expect was how much the move would reshape our entire view of what education can and should be.
Within weeks of arriving and enrolling our children at the Best School in Samui, our perspective started to shift. Here’s why.
A Warm and Welcoming Start
The admissions process in Koh Samui surprised us in the best way. From the first inquiry, we received detailed guidance, timely responses, and a sense that the staff genuinely cared about making our transition smooth. As new residents navigated the logistics of moving abroad, this made a lasting impression.
The school took time to understand our children’s academic history and language needs. They made tailored recommendations that helped us feel confident we were in the right place.
Discovering the Cambridge Curriculum in a Tropical Setting
Having come from a rigid, test-heavy system, we were unsure how well our children would adapt. But the Cambridge curriculum in Thailand offered at PBISS is far from rigid. It’s structured and academically sound, yet incredibly balanced.
We were impressed by how subjects are taught through inquiry and critical thinking, not just rote memorisation. Learning is not confined to the classroom either. Our daughter now discusses ecosystems after visiting Samui’s coastal areas with her science class. Our son is excited about literature thanks to creative writing sessions inspired by real-world themes.
A Different Pace, A Better Balance
What stood out most was the shift in our children’s attitude toward school. Back home, mornings were filled with anxiety and pressure. Here, there’s still routine and expectation, but with a calmer pace and supportive environment.
The school day blends academics, physical education, creative arts, and collaborative learning. We noticed our children growing in confidence, not just academically but socially and emotionally. The international school life in Samui embraces holistic education, and it shows.
Multicultural Classrooms that Spark Real-World Awareness
One of the most eye-opening parts of our experience has been seeing our kids interact with peers from dozens of different countries. The learning environment for expat children at PBISS encourages inclusion, empathy, and global thinking.
Instead of just reading about cultures in textbooks, our children live it every day. Whether it’s international food days, cultural presentations, or joint projects, the school helps children see the world through more than one lens. As parents, we’re learning too.
Teachers Who Go Beyond the Basics
We’ve had teachers in the past who followed the syllabus well, but at PBISS, educators seem to go a step further. They know the children by name, understand their learning styles, and offer encouragement that feels personal.
The British international school experience here is rooted in both tradition and innovation. Teachers are qualified, approachable, and enthusiastic, and the school’s leadership fosters a culture of growth and transparency. We’re regularly invited to parent-teacher sessions, school events, and even classroom showcases that reflect our children’s progress.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
What began as a logistical choice has now become one of the best decisions we’ve made as a family. Our children are not just receiving a high-quality education in Koh Samui. They are thriving in a learning environment that values who they are and helps them become who they want to be.
More than just academic results, they’re gaining resilience, curiosity, and an international mindset that will serve them for life.
Final Reflection
Moving to Samui for schooling wasn’t just about changing locations. It changed our mindset. It showed us that a school can be more than a building or a curriculum. It can be a place that builds character, celebrates culture, and helps families grow together.
If you’re considering a similar move, know that the right school can make all the difference. For us, finding the Best School in Samui exceeded our expectations in every way.