“Our students are at the heart of everything we do”
In 2016, Bangkok Prep (known formally as Bangkok International Preparatory & Secondary School) set foot on the new grounds that would be used for the expansion of its Secondary Campus. Bangkok Prep continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the top international schools in Thailand and the region by taking the final years of secondary school, a springboard to university, to another level of excellence with the opening of the new 8,600-sq. ft. Sixth Form Suite. This brand new, state-of-the-art facility, is situated at the top of its newest academic building – Block D. The sparkling six-storey complex completes the state-of-the-art line-up on the Secondary Campus, nestled in an exclusive residential enclave on Sukhumvit 77, known as T77.
The Secondary Campus has been expertly designed to provide a safe and secure 21st century learning environment for 11-18 years old; with spaces compatible to learning technologies, ‘break-out’ learning spaces and Sixth Form study areas.
Specially designed “for the students by the students,” the new space inspires learning and provides everything conceivably necessary for each individual to achieve their potential. The extensive breakout spaces throughout the Sixth Form Suite are a direct result of student input.
“We found that students wanted co-working spaces where they can sit independently and individually, get together with groups and work,” explains the Head of Secondary, Tia Court-Smith. “Furniture is arranged outside classrooms and those are some of the most used spaces both for studying and socialising.”
“One of the greatest things about Bangkok Prep is the facilities we have that enable us to do more different things,” says Head Girl Natt Tantipat who is preparing for medical school. “Our labs have a full array of equipment and our art department not only has a photographic studio but we even have proper machines to accomplish DT (design technology) assignments, including cutting wood and acrylic.”
“The whole school reflects the student voice and needs because, ultimately, this is their school,” affirms Tia.
SIXTH FORM CENTRE: EXCEPTIONAL AND SUSTAINABLE
Sustainability is also synonymous with Bangkok Prep. Risa Ketudat, Building Project Manager and School Board Member, reiterated that it is the first international school in Thailand to achieve the Green Flag Eco School certification. “The ethos of Eco Schools is embedded throughout the Bangkok Prep.”
The Windows allow natural light from outside to flood the learning spaces. Low emission LED lighting is used throughout and students are encouraged to focus on sustainable use of energy and help minimise energy consumption. Solar panels on top of the buildings utilise block chain technology, providing the school with green electricity and enabling energy to be used within the broader T77 community.
“A fresh air system is embedded into the building’s mechanical and engineering plans and integrated with the air-conditioning,” Risa adds. “We bring air in from the outside and filter it for PM 2.5 and PM 10 particles, so clean air flows through the whole building.”
The top floor of the buzzing building comprises an expansive common room with various zones where students huddle over projects and independent studies. A Google HQ office-inspired informal seminar room hosts meetings where creativity is required. Handily situated on the same floor is the University Counselling and Guidance Office.
A very popular area is the self-service cafe-area which allows them to refresh, recharge and socialise between lessons and study periods. For many, it is a first taste of university life and independence. Students of many nationalities and hailing from different parts of the world integrate using one universal language.
AN INTERCONNECTED MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITY
“We love the fact that we have students from a lot of different cultures and backgrounds, with different needs, beliefs, talents and strengths,” Tia comments.
“I love the connection that the teachers and students have with each other and how we can rely on the teachers to always give us guidance and support for the future,” says Head Boy Marco Kuratana who has his sights set on studying law. “What really makes us special and unique is that our Sixth Form student body really has a warm connection – fellow students have no hesitation helping one another,” he adds.
Another central feature in the Sixth Form Suite is a designated shout-out wall. This wall helps to create a culture where students feel valued and recognised. It is a great way to recognise your peers for their work, talent, and values, and to contribute to a culture of appreciation, community, and kindness.
“Everybody responds to positive feedback and praise and this is done in a number of ways at the school,” says Tia. “We have reward systems and house points and in the sixth form every week students and teachers nominate students we value for their contributions in subjects, their wonderful conduct or showing our school’s life values.”
A CURRICULUM FOR THE 21ST CENTURY
“A key feature of Bangkok Prep is the school’s independence,” says Head of School, Duncan Stonehouse. “We are not bound to any educational headquarters and that gives us autonomy to direct the school in the way that is best for each pupil.”
Teaching and learning strategies are reviewed constantly. By listening to student feedback and tracking outcomes, teachers ensure that every lesson offers the most effective learning experience.
“This is not the old-style British curriculum,” Duncan said. “The modern British curriculum has moved away from being very specific. All the high-performing independent schools in the UK and the high performing international schools understand that it is more about the skills that the students learn than the curriculum that they follow.”
Bangkok Prep is further differentiated by its particularly impressive range of A-Levels and I/GCSEs.
“There’s a really big focus on tailored student pathways and navigating through changing times,” says Tia.
“In the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme all students must follow core content and one subject from each of six groups. This includes every student continuing subjects they may enjoy or excel in, or not. However, with our A-Level programme, students have the freedom to follow their passions and strengths.”
A-Level students choose three or four subjects in which they are excelling and are truly interested. They also gain skills and experience from the many opportunities and programmes available to them.
GRADUATE GLOBAL CITIZENS
Bangkok Prep’s University Counselling and Guidance (UCG) team is now working with 67 students in Year 13 who are graduating this year. The 97 students in Year 12 also work closely with our specialist staff team in planning their university applications and deciding their career paths.
This support and guidance ensures that every Bangkok Prep student can achieve their potential from Year 7 and continuing throughout their school career. Students and their families work in partnership with school to learn about and prepare for their next steps in life. The school has created bespoke programmes to do that.
A “Highly and Exceptionally Able Learners Programme” ensures personalised ‘challenge plans’ for students who excel in a range of areas. Students and families work together using positive approaches to mental health and wellbeing, learning together about a range of ways we can support our young people practically. For example, a recent workshop included meaningful research and dialogue about the importance of getting good sleep.
A programme of extra-curricular and ‘super curricular’ activities, also supports student development and helps students gain offers from the top universities around the world. Our super curricular programme goes beyond the regular curriculum to embrace more in-depth discussions about key topics such as the future and impact of artificial intelligence.
The Extended Project Qualification involves developing skills and deepening understanding. It fosters independent learners from expert staff advisors, while guest speakers inspire and support students with their own research projects or event planning.
The school explicitly teaches critical thinking and the competencies that are needed by a modern, global citizen. These include empathy, communication, respect and how to reason with information. The school similarly focuses on digital citizenship and how to be responsible, safe and effective in the online world.
“By the time students leave us, they have the ability to make a positive impact on society and go forward, not only on their own pathway but also using their position of privilege and influence to do amazing things in the world,” Tia Court-Smith, the Head of Secondary School concluded with.
The Windows allow natural light from outside to flood the common spaces. Low emission LED lighting is used throughout and students are encouraged to focus on sustainable use of energy and help minimise energy consumption.
**The photos used in this article were taken with strict Covid-19 regulations in place. For some of the photos we asked students and teachers to temporarily and safely remove their masks for their photos following Covid-19 regulations.