Phuket’s Top
International Schools
A parent’s guide to international education on the island — from early years to IB Diploma, covering every curriculum, budget, and area of Phuket.
🏆 #1 — The Most Established on the Island
Phuket’s longest-running and most recognised international school.
British International School Phuket (BISP)
Set on a sprawling, resort-like campus in Koh Kaew, BISP has been a cornerstone of international education on the island for nearly 30 years. The school follows the British curriculum through to IGCSEs and the IB Diploma Programme — one of the most globally recognised academic pathways available. With world-class sports facilities, arts programmes, and a large, diverse student body, BISP offers one of the most complete school environments in Southeast Asia. A strong choice for families relocating from the UK or those seeking a familiar academic structure with an international student community.
⭐ #2 & #3 — Top Picks
Two more schools that consistently stand out in Phuket’s expat community.
UWC Thailand
Around 500 students from over 60 nationalities make UWC one of the most genuinely international environments in Phuket. The school places a strong emphasis on social-emotional learning, mindfulness, and environmental stewardship alongside its academic programme. Boarding is available, making it an option for families who travel frequently or for international students. Fees run from ฿497,000 to ฿876,000 per year.
HeadStart International School
Founded in 2005, HeadStart now has over 1,500 students across two campuses (Chalong and Cherngtalay), representing over 50 nationalities. The school follows the English National Curriculum from Early Years through to Cambridge AS and A-Levels at age 18. With two campuses on opposite sides of the island, it’s one of the most accessible schools geographically — particularly useful for families split between the south and the north.
✦ #4–8 — Also Worth Considering
More solid options across different areas and curricula — each with its own strengths depending on your family’s priorities.
Kajonkiet International School (KIS)
A co-educational day school for children aged 2 to 18, set in 15 Rai of grounds. Well known for a friendly, tight-knit community that emphasises respect and responsibility — popular with families based in the south of the island who prefer a campus with more of a local feel.
QSI International School of Phuket
One of Phuket’s longer-established schools and the go-to option for American families or those who prefer a US-based curriculum. Consistently praised for small class sizes and the individual attention teachers are able to give students — something harder to find at larger campuses.
Lighthouse International School
Founded by parents and educators with a shared vision: to help students find their own path through structured learning. The school covers ages 2 to 18 on a British and Canadian curriculum, with fees between ฿240,000 and ฿368,000 per year — making it one of the more accessible options on this list without compromising on quality.
Buds International School
The oldest established childcare facility in Phuket — catering to international and Thai children from 12 months to 12 years. If you’re looking for early years (nursery and primary), Buds has the longest track record on the island. Boutique in size, which means children get more individual attention than at larger campuses.
Oak Meadow Phuket International School
A growing school with a strong community feel that tends to appeal to families who find the island’s larger campuses overwhelming. Worth visiting in person — the atmosphere is noticeably warm and the student-to-teacher ratio reflects that. A solid alternative for families who value that smaller-school experience.
🌴 #9–13 — More Schools on the Island
Additional international schools in Phuket worth knowing about — particularly for families with specific curriculum preferences or who live in specific areas. Have a school to add? Tell us about it →
Finnway International School
One of very few schools in Thailand offering a Finnish curriculum — a less exam-driven, more collaborative approach to learning that’s gaining popularity with growth-minded families.
PGIS – Phuket Global International School
Combines global standards with a warm, community-driven approach through the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) and a holistic educational philosophy focused on developing the whole child.
Life School Phuket (LSP)
Provides alternative, adaptive education for growth-minded families who want a more well-rounded approach that goes beyond traditional academic benchmarks and prepares children for a future-focused world.
Greenhouse Kindergarten
A well-regarded early years and kindergarten option popular with expat families who are new to the island. Often used as a starting point before transitioning children into one of the larger international primary schools.
HEI Schools Phuket
A newer addition to the island’s school scene applying Finnish early childhood methodology. Gaining traction with families who value the Nordic approach to learning — play-based, curiosity-driven, and low-stress.
Is your school missing from this guide?
Phuket’s international school landscape is growing every year. If you know a school that deserves to be on this list — or you’re an admissions team who’d like to be featured — we’d love to hear from you. We update this guide regularly based on community feedback.