Sixth form at Bromsgrove International School Thailand
The growing student population at Bromsgrove International School Thailand (BIST) is having a positive effect on the campus. Not only are they attracting more students, but their student body is becoming more diverse and dynamic as a result. This is especially true of their sixth form population which has grown a staggering 130% in the last twelve months. With twenty nationalities represented in years 12 and 13 alone, they are truly an international school.
BIST is currently the only international school in Bangkok to receive full approval from the Ministry of Education to offer the BTEC Diploma Programme. As a result, the unique sixth form pathways have attracted a cohort of students from a range of backgrounds. Their Diploma Programme allows flexibility to students, who are free to combine BTEC and A Level qualifications. By offering the BTEC programme in four different subjects their are assuring provision for a range of talents and interests that go beyond the traditional A Level subjects.
With courses in Travel and Tourism and Creative Digital Media, the students have opportunities to learn more about the ever changing job market in the region and also to develop the skills required to get ahead in a fast paced media driven world. Their BTEC Sport course mixes elements of psychology, physiology and biology which opens doors to a range of sport and leisure industry based courses, and their BTEC Business programme is offering a practical approach to the subject, allowing students to get hands on experience before moving into further study.
They are exceptionally proud of the students who have chosen the traditional pathway of A Levels and the outstanding results which they achieve. The majority of students go onto prestigious UK Universities, with Bromsgrovian’s being accepted into Oxford and Cambridge for the last 3 years in a row. Despite being a relitively small school, they have 16 A Level courses on offer, as well as 4 BTECs, meaning that sixth form student can make choices based on their interests, abilities and talents. The many subject choices on offer also means that Bromsgrove students benefit from smaller class sizes and a more personalised approach.
Aside from academic qualifications, sixth form students have a wealth of opportunities to develop the skills and characteristics needed for success in higher education. They have a host of leadership roles open to students who want to take responsibility, from the prestigious titles of Head Boy and Head Girl, to class representatives and encourage all seniors to make the most of the experiences offered to them.
In line with the school ethos, they place great value on community service and giving back to the wider community. Sixth form students are heavily involved in service projects, something they believe is an essential element to being a Global Citizen. In year 12 and year 13 students take part in Challenge Week. For them, this is a unique learning experience that takes them to Northern Thailand for a residential trip. They have worked closely with a local NGO to develop a programme that allows students to build resilience as individuals while also having a positive impact on the wider Thai community. The relationship that students build with the community they support will carry on for future sixth formers as they take part in their own Challenge Weeks in subsequent years.
An extra-curricular activities programme has been devised to encourage engagement, creativity and an active lifestyle amongst our students. There are over 35 different activities available for students to choose from across the week, meaning students find ways to express themselves and enhance their abilities. Each student is guided towards activities that will improve their school profile, and support them to get the most from the programme. For the sixth form, this means they can look ahead to their university aspirations and consider how to shine in their future applications.
All students at BIST take part in a unique programme designed by the school. BEAM, Building Effective Attitudes and Mindsets, has been created to fit the profile of their students. They have the opportunity to explore personal and social topics, whilst also gaining an appreciation for their role as Global Citizens. As they reach the senior year groups in the school, this becomes more focused as they consider their future pathways and career goals. In addition, they offer expert guidance in the application procedures required for entry into university with each student supported personally by a pastoral team and experienced HE advisors.
With such a vibrant group of young people benefiting from all they do at the school, the present growth trend looks set to continue. They are excited to see what their students can achieve in the coming years. Below are two extracts from interviews with two of the Class of 2017 graduating students, reflecting on their time at BIST:
“As BIST is relatively small almost everyone knows each other, making me feel comfortable and settled. There were teachers that I could trust to talk to about problems or worries I had. If I were to describe the school using one word, it would definitely be ‘caring’. Even before choosing which universities I was going to apply to Bromsgrove had several universities visit the school, giving students advice on writing their personal statements and explaining the outlines of their various
courses. The school offered many opportunities for us to take part in extra-curricular activities and take on roles in school that would add individuality to our personal statements and personal growth.
I was given the opportunity to be a part of the
Student Leadership Group as Deputy Head Girl – leading the Wellbeing Committee in school. In addition, I took part in the regional round of World Scholar’s Cup, where my team qualified for the global rounds in Dubai. In terms of preparation for university, the higher education adviser was there to help me every step of the way. This included a weekly catch up session on my personal statement writing and also giving me the opportunity to do mock interviews. I am proud to call myself a
Bromsgrove graduate as the school did not only allow me to grow academically; it also made me a more confident individual. Being one of the 10 Thai nationals to get accepted into the University of Cambridge this year makes me incredibly proud. I am honoured to represent both BIST and the Thai people overseas.”
Papawarin (Ply) Pinji, Class of 2017, University of Cambridge, BA Architecture
“I have been interested in science since I was a small child. At BIST, they offer an opportunity for Secondary students to attend our sister school, Bromsgrove School, UK (BUK) on a one-term placement. Whilst there I attended a speaking forum at BUK and I got to listen to a lecture from a professor of University of Warwick; a speech that inspired me to choose a scientific pathway at university. Once I returned from BUK, my physics teacher gave up his time during lunches to spend time with me further developing my knowledge and love of science. What I liked most about Bromsgrove was the wide array of opportunities to learn outside of the classroom. With support from teachers I led a Science Club inspiring the younger students to create and develop a range of science projects. Last but not least, the Bromsgrove Learner Profile attributes contributed to me becoming a truly global citizen – I see myself as part of fast changing and dynamic world. Bromsgrove has certainly prepared me for my future!
Henry Millard, Class of 2017
Received an unconditional offer from Durham University, MSci in Natural Sciences. He is currently on a gap year for an internship with GITSDA
