Established in 1983, The American School of Bangkok (ASB), Sukhumvit Campus, is a private, Pre-K–12 day school offering an American curriculum with an international perspective. To develop the whole child, the school uses innovative teaching and learning practices that are student-centered while incorporating mindfulness into their educational approach. ASB also believes that essential factors in achieving happiness and success for its students and staff result from a growth mindset as well as collaboration among all stakeholders in the community.
The campus boasts libraries, computer rooms, internet access, playgrounds, a basketball court, an outdoor sports alley, and half-size soccer field, a ballet studio, and an indoor gym, as well as with studios for music and sound, art, and drama. Students also have full access to sports facilities at the Racquet Club adjacent to the school. Unique features of the campus include offices for video production and graphics, Relaxation – Mindfulness rooms, a swimming pool, a Discovery Center in the kindergarten area, and a Robotics and Technology Center.
Currently, 447 students of 47 nationalities are enrolled. Of these, 19% are from Thailand; 8% are from North America, and 1% are from the U.K. The teaching staff of 63 includes 40 from North America, five from Thailand, and four from the U.K.
ASB is fully accredited by Thailand’s Office for National Education Standards and Quality Assessment as well as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The school uses inquiry-based learning while delivering the Reggio Emilia in the early years followed by different strands: the U.K. primary and secondary curricula, the U.S. Common Core, the Scottish Highers, and WIDA for multi-lingual learners. Advanced Placement courses are offered in the upper grades.
For over 30 years, ASB’s rigorous academic program has prepared students to attend top universities around the world. Recently, graduates have been accepted to leading institutions, such as the following: Harvard University; University of California, Berkeley; University of Washington; Purdue University; Pennsylvania State University; University of British Columbia; and the University of Tokyo. Many of these exceptional graduates have received full academic scholarships.
A wide variety of after-school activities, weekend activities and sports programs are offered, including soccer, basketball, volleyball, swimming, badminton, tennis, and softball. The sports teams regularly compete and have shown great success in the Bangkok International School Athletic Conference. Other after-school choices include art, Thai art club, homework club, tennis, music, math club, dance club, chess, cooking, elementary reading, and after-school tutorial. Throughout the year, high school students in Model United Nations attend conferences held in Bangkok, sometimes hosted by ASB. Students and teachers alike are welcome to try out for the annual ASB talent show.
Field trips designed for middle and high school team building must certainly be a highlight of the year when Grades 6–7, 8–9, 10–11, and 12 travel to separate destinations for bonding adventures and activities.
Each year, ASB coordinates major events at the nursery and kindergarten level. Students prepare and perform in musical productions, such as The Lion King, Toy Story, and Wicked. Nursery and kindergarten also have their own sports days, when they enjoy many team-building and fun activities.
As a result of a growing need for assistance in the surrounding community, the Community Service Program at ASB—mandatory for Grades 9–12—has flourished. On its website, the school reports it “has raised a substantial amount of money, and spent thousands of hours working to help underprivileged children, animals and the environment.” Homeroom teachers and counselors assist students in appropriate placements in the community, and students complete a certain number of hours of service. Students may also propose their own ideas for their individual community service project, or work with the ASB Student Council for a particular charitable cause. Community members participate in the school’s annual charitable events—the Sukhumvit Fair and the Bangna Family Fair—to raise funds for local or international causes.
ASB prefers to hire single teachers and interns. They would consider newly-certified candidates; experienced teachers lacking certification; and couples, including those with a non-teaching partner. Teachers must hold an academic degree in the subject they will be teaching. There is no age limit to obtain a work visa in Thailand.
The benefits package includes a monthly housing stipend and transportation allowance. While the school provides tuition benefits for dependents, teachers cover the fees for their children’s school materials, books, utilities, meals, and field trips, which amount to about 8% of the tuition fee. Professional development is provided for staff. International health coverage, which includes most countries, means employees pay only 10% of the total fee for outpatient services. Due to the low cost of living, this package amounts to substantial savings. There are local employment opportunities for non-teaching partners.
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Please note: The information presented about this school was valid on the date published. This information may change, and the most up-to-date information can be found on the school profile.
