Frequently asked questions

Curious about our programmes? Start with our FAQs for clear, straightforward information about our international school in Pattaya. If a question remains, our dedicated team is here to help with one-to-one support. 

Tara Pattana Internationals School follows the English National Curriculum as it would be taught at any top independent school in the UK (with some adaptations to cater for the fact that we are located in Thailand and are an international school). Students attending our school will have their studies accepted by other reputable British and international schools as well as universities in the UK and worldwide. Tara Pattana International School is accredited by Thai Ministry of Education as an International School and by the Office of National Standards and Quality Assessment (ONESQA). We are members of the Council of International Schools (CIS).

Tara Pattana International School delivers its curriculum in English. In order for students to be academically successful they must have a high level of both written and spoken English. The demands on the level of English increase depending on the age of the child, typically being less demanding during early years and more demanding in our secondary school. The school is able to provide language support but always with the provision that this support is only required for a limited time.

Yes. School is opened to receiving students throughout the academic year and special attention is given to ensure new arrivals feel welcome and get integrated into the class. The fact that our students are used to interacting with children from many nationalities and from varying backgrounds makes the process of making new friends much easier.

School runs from Monday to Friday, starting at 8.30 am and ending at 3.40 pm. Students enjoy a 20 min break/playtime/snack in the morning and have another break in the mid afternoon from 12 pm to 1 pm that incorporates lunch. Depending on the year group, students have a further break of 15 min in the late afternoon. Students usually spend their break times outside.

Tara Pattana International School is committed to offering as much Thai language as possible, within the constraints and demands of the curriculum. Students study three 50-minute Thai classes a week. These lessons are delivered at beginner and native-speaking levels so that all students can be accommodated.

The school has a comprehensive bus service, and strives to ensure children spend the least amount of time possible travelling to and from school. Our routes cover most of the typical expatriate residential areas, and routes are often created or adapted to provide the maximum flexibility possible.

Yes, excursions and day trips are additional costs paid by parents.

Admission FAQs

We follow the UK National Curriculum, adapted to meet the needs of our international student community, alongside IGCSE, GCSE and A Level programmes.

Yes, all of our teachers are highly qualified and experienced educators.

Yes, students with limited English are provided with EAL lessons

TPIS offers Co-Curricular activities & extra-curricular activities

How can I apply?

Families are encouraged to begin the admissions process by contacting our Admissions Office or arranging a visit to the school. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to learn more about TPIS, our curriculum, and school community. Parents are then required to complete the application forms, and students applying for Year 1 to Year 13 will be invited to sit an admissions assessment appropriate to their age and stage.

What are the admissions requirements?

As part of the admissions process, families are asked to provide the following documents:

  • Child’s birth certificate
  • Copy of the student’s passport
  • Copies of parents’ passports
  • Most recent school report from the previous school
  • Residence certificate in Thailand
  • Parent work permit and visa (if applicable)
  • Passport-sized photographs of the student and parents

At TPIS, children can join us from the age of 2, where we focus on nurturing their social, emotional, physical and communication skills through play-based learning. Our Early Years programme is designed to help each child develop confidence, independence and curiosity, ensuring they build strong foundations and are supported to become school-ready at their own pace.

We use an app called Class Dojo, it automatically translates messages for you and makes communication easy between teachers and families. 

Play-based learning is an approach where children learn through purposeful play, exploration and hands-on experiences that spark curiosity and engagement. Through play, children naturally develop key skills such as communication, problem-solving, creativity and social interaction in a meaningful and age-appropriate way.

Yes, all students eat in the canteen and we share the menu weekly via email and school newsletter. 

Performing arts programme FAQs

Students can begin exploring performing arts from Primary School, with structured opportunities available from early years through to Sixth Form. Formal pathways such as LAMDA examinations begin from Year 3 onwards, allowing students to progressively build confidence and skills.

No prior experience is required. The programme is designed to be inclusive and supportive, welcoming beginners as well as experienced performers. Students can explore different disciplines and grow at their own pace.

Students have regular performance opportunities throughout the year, including school events, cultural celebrations, showcases and the annual whole-school production. These experiences help build confidence and real-world stage presence.

The programme combines:

  • High participation rates (over 40% of students involved in clubs)
  • Professional-standard facilities
  • Expert-led teaching
  • Internationally recognised qualifications (LAMDA, IGCSE, A Level)

Performing arts are offered as both curriculum and co-curricular activities. Students can study subjects such as Drama, Art & Design and Media Studies academically, while also participating in clubs like Musical Theatre, Film and Dance.

Students can work towards:

  • LAMDA (London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art) certifications
  • IGCSE Drama and Art & Design
  • A Level Media Studies and Art & Design

Performing arts help students develop:

  • Confidence and self-expression
  • Communication and public speaking skills
  • Creativity and problem-solving
  • Teamwork and leadership

    These are transferable skills that benefit academic success and future careers beyond the arts.

Yes. There are many non-performing roles, including prop making, stage design, filmmaking and production. These options allow students to contribute creatively without being on stage.

Students benefit from purpose-built facilities, including:

  • A performance space with stage and LED screen
  • Ballet and dance studios
  • Soundproof music and rehearsal rooms
  • Media production spaces with professional equipment
  • These environments support both learning and high-quality performances.

Students can choose their level of involvement. Many join lunchtime or after-school clubs, while others dedicate additional time to rehearsals, productions or exam preparation depending on their interests.

Yes. Students may participate in regional events, festivals and community performances, as well as school celebrations, giving them exposure beyond the classroom.

Performing arts qualifications and experiences help students build strong portfolios, communication skills and creative thinking, which are valued in fields such as:

  • Performing arts and media
  • Business and marketing
  • Law and public speaking careers
  • Creative industries

Yes. The annual production is open to students from Year 5 to Year 13, offering opportunities both on stage and behind the scenes. It is a major highlight of the school year and encourages wide participation.

Parents are regularly invited to attend school productions, showcases and cultural events, making performing arts a shared community experience.

All students at Tara Pattana International School have access to our performing arts programme as part of school life. From Primary through to Sixth Form, learners can take part in both lessons and co-curricular clubs.

To enrol your child and discover how they can get involved, simply contact our Admissions team or book a personalised school tour.

Learning support & ELLS FAQs

The English Language & Learning Support (ELLS) programme is designed for students who need additional support with English or accessing the curriculum. It helps learners build the language, confidence and academic skills needed to succeed in an international school environment.

All students are assessed on entry using recognised tools such as reading-age tests and standardised assessments. Progress is then tracked regularly, allowing teachers to adjust support quickly and ensure steady improvement.

No. The programme is carefully structured so students can access the curriculum while developing their English. Support is tailored to ensure they continue making academic progress alongside their peers.

  • Intensive Support provides more structured, small-group teaching and targeted interventions for students who need significant language development.
  • Transitional Support offers a blend of in-class and small-group support, helping students move towards greater independence in English.

Both pathways are personalised based on each child’s needs.

Progress varies depending on the student, but regular assessments and targeted teaching ensure clear, measurable improvement over time. The focus is on sustainable progress rather than short-term results.

In some cases, students may be withdrawn from selected lessons for targeted support, particularly in the Intensive programme. However, wherever possible, support is delivered within the classroom to maintain continuity and inclusion.

The programme helps students build confidence, friendships and a sense of belonging. By developing communication skills and encouraging participation, students feel more comfortable engaging in school life.

Homework is adapted to each student’s level, ensuring it is achievable and meaningful. In some cases, ELLS homework replaces mainstream tasks so that students can focus on the most impactful learning.

Strong home–school partnership is key. Parents are encouraged to:

  • Maintain and value the home language
  • Support reading and communication at home
  • Stay in regular contact with teachers

This collaboration helps reinforce progress both in and out of school.

Yes. As students develop confidence and proficiency in English, they can transition out of ELLS support and fully access the mainstream curriculum independently.

The school provides inclusive learning support, including small-group or one-to-one interventions. Where needed, the school works with external specialists to ensure the right support is in place.

Yes. Students who demonstrate high ability are offered enrichment, extension and personalised learning opportunities, ensuring they are challenged and supported to reach their full potential.

Absolutely. The programme is designed to ensure students feel fully included socially and academically, with English as a shared language helping them build friendships and confidence within the school community.

Through a combination of:

  • Regular assessments
  • Teacher insight and monitoring
  • Personalised learning plans

This ensures support is continuously adapted to meet each student’s needs.

We recommend speaking with our Admissions Team or visiting the school. They can guide you through the assessment process and explain how support would be tailored to your child.

Ror dor programme FAQs

The Ror Dor programme is available to male Thai students, including those with dual nationality, typically from age 15 onwards. Eligibility is subject to meeting the requirements set by the Thai military.

No, the programme is entirely optional. It is offered as an opportunity for students who wish to complete an alternative pathway to Thailand’s military service requirements while continuing their education.

Students who successfully complete the programme can reduce or fully exempt their future military service, depending on the number of years completed. This provides families with greater certainty when planning ahead.

The programme is carefully structured to run alongside the school timetable, ensuring students can balance training with their academic commitments. School staff provide support to help students manage both effectively.

Students take part in a combination of physical training, discipline exercises, teamwork activities and field training, culminating in a supervised multi-day camp. The focus is on personal development as well as preparation.

Yes. The programme is delivered in partnership with the Thai military and is closely supervised, with safety and student wellbeing prioritised at all times. School staff remain involved to support students throughout.

Beyond military exemption pathways, students develop:

  • Discipline and resilience
  • Leadership and teamwork skills
  • Physical fitness and confidence

These qualities support both academic success and future life skills.

No, the Ror Dor programme is specifically designed for Thai nationals, as it relates directly to Thailand’s military service requirements.

Students who complete one or two years still receive partial benefits, including a reduced length of military service if conscripted. The level of benefit depends on how much of the programme is completed.

Yes. While students can choose the number of years they participate, it is important to understand that Ror Dor involves a structured commitment, including regular training and attendance at camp.

In some cases, students may be able to continue their Ror Dor training after leaving, subject to approval and coordination. This ensures continuity where possible.

Students are supported by dedicated school staff who coordinate with the military, help manage schedules and ensure students feel confident balancing training with school life.

While Ror Dor is not an academic qualification, it demonstrates discipline, commitment, leadership and resilience, which are valued by universities and future employers.

Eligible students can join the programme through the school once enrolled. For guidance on suitability, requirements and next steps, parents are encouraged to contact the Admissions team or speak with school staff.

Accreditations