Koh Phangan Welcomes First International Secondary School, Si Ri Panya
Si Ri Panya International School has become the first accredited international secondary school on Koh Phangan. Awarded a license from the Thai Ministry of Education, the secondary school campus opened on September 4.
This noteworthy development on the Gulf island, accessible by ferry from Koh Samui or the mainland, represents a substantial leap forward in providing educational opportunities for students aged 11 and older. The secondary school has not only obtained accreditation from the Ministry of Education but also Cambridge and EDT in the UK ensuring alignment with international standards.
The expansion of Si Ri Panya International School comes at a time when Koh Phangan has garnered global recognition as the top “workation” destination. This is according to a survey by William Russell, a website specializing in insurance services for expatriates.
A Growing Expat Community
With a growing expatriate community on Koh Phangan, there has been an increasing demand for international education and specialized services. Si Ri Panya’s new secondary school aims to fulfill this demand, offering expatriate families access to high-quality secondary education. This plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining skilled professionals and entrepreneurs which, in turn, may positively impact the local economy.
Nicola Bunchuay, Founder of Si Ri Panya International School, shared her enthusiasm: “The launch of the secondary school is a significant milestone, expanding educational opportunities for our students and their families while further supporting the expat community on the island”.
Local business owner, Mr. Watcharin Rodpenthai, recognized the potential impact, stating, “Si Ri Panya’s accredited international status may attract more families to the island, potentially benefiting the local economy in the long term“.
The establishment of Si Ri Panya International School’s secondary campus on September 4, 2023, signifies a noteworthy progression in education for expatriates in the region. It grants students on Koh Phangan access to international secondary educational opportunities for the first time, contributing to the island’s evolving educational environment. Prior to this, many families relocated their children when they reached the age of 11, as there were no international school options available on the island.
