A primary student with a teacher at BASIS International School Bangkok

BASIS International School Bangkok offers a world-class primary school program designed to nurture a passion for learning and develop a solid academic foundation. We provide an enriching learning experience for students as they embrace the interconnectivity of various subjects. Our comprehensive international primary curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and global awareness from Grades 1 to 5, setting the stage for long-term academic success.

As a leading international primary school in Bangkok, our program for Grades 1 through 5 is structured to provide students with a comprehensive and engaging education. Our program is defined by the teaching partnership between the Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) for every core class and a Learning Expert Teacher (LET) for Grades 1 to 4 or an Academic Coach for Grade 5.

BASIS Primary School Curriculum

Our international primary school curriculum for Grades 1 through 5 was developed within the BASIS Curriculum Schools Network through the collaborative work of teachers with deep subject knowledge and elementary education experts. It’s designed to be rigorous and adaptable, offering students a well-rounded education that includes language, mathematics, science, and social studies, as well as exposure to foreign languages, the arts, and sports. This diverse curriculum ensures that students in our Bangkok primary school program are academically well-prepared and well-rounded.

When students enter our primary school program in Bangkok, they are introduced to a dynamic learning environment that encourages exploration and critical thinking. Unlike traditional self-contained classrooms, BASIS students transition between subjects, engaging with specialized Subject Expert Teachers (SETs) in each core discipline. This approach is complemented by the Learning Expert Teachers (LETs) who guide students daily, ensuring they grasp the material and are well-supported in their learning.

A primary school classroom with two teachers in Bangkok, Thailand

Subject Expert and Learning Expert Teachers

Our international primary school’s innovative and unique educational model enables students to rapidly master content knowledge. In the co-teaching approach, two teachers work in tandem to introduce and reinforce skills and knowledge that accelerate the learning process.

The Subject Expert Teachers (SETs), many of whom have advanced degrees, specialize in teaching their respective fields. They bring a depth of content knowledge and a passion for their subject to spark and engage their students’ interest.

Meanwhile, the Learning Expert Teachers (LETs) specialize in educational pedagogy. Their role is to ensure students fully understand the lessons and progress in their development. LETs move with the students throughout the school day as they go from subject to subject.

The synergy of the SET and LET facilitates a rapid mastery of content, helping students transition from instruction of foundational skills and knowledge to independent thinking and active learning throughout our Bangkok primary school program.

Spiraling Curriculum and Connections

At BASIS International School Bangkok, we understand the importance of revisiting and reinforcing core concepts as students progress through their education. The BASIS Curriculum for primary school was designed to link subject matter across content areas and grade levels.

Our spiraling curriculum emphasizes connections between subjects by reiterating key concepts throughout. This approach allows students to develop the ability to combine information and methods among various content areas to deepen understanding, improve retention, and ideate real-world applications.

A key element of this is the Connections Class for Grades 1-3 and Academic Enrichment for Grades 4 and above, in which students synthesize information from across subjects in a project-based group setting. The interdisciplinary approach of our Bangkok primary school program enhances learning and equips elementary students with the tools to apply their knowledge in innovative and meaningful ways.

A primary school class activity at BASIS International School Bangkok, Thailand

Academic Outcomes and Student Development

BASIS International School Bangkok is committed to preparing students for success in international middle school in Thailand and beyond. Our students graduate from the primary school program equipped with strong academic knowledge, communication skills, and self-confidence.
Our international primary curriculum prepares students for the next academic stage by ensuring they’re academically ready for rigorous secondary school programs, enabling a smooth progression to BASIS’s middle school curriculum, and developing a strong foundation for lifelong learning habits.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

What age group does an international primary school cover?

Most international primary schools in Thailand cover children from ages 6 to 11 (Grades 1–5).

Is the international primary school curriculum at BASIS taught fully in English?

Yes. English is the primary language of instruction at BASIS International School Bangkok, with native or fluent English-speaking faculty.

What curriculum is used in international primary schools in Bangkok?

Schools use internationally recognized frameworks. BASIS International School Bangkok’s primary program follows the BASIS Curriculum, a globally respected, inquiry-based American model.

Can students transfer from local schools to an international primary school in Thailand?

Yes. BASIS International School Bangkok welcomes transfers, pending placement assessments and English proficiency.

Do international elementary schools in Bangkok prepare students for middle school abroad?

BASIS International Bangkok’s primary or elementary school program is aligned with international secondary standards and supports long-term academic continuity.