Thailand School Year: Thai School Calendar Explained — Teach English in Thailand with Kids English
In Thailand, the weather is a significant motivator for the timing of the Thai school year; it does not resemble regular European, Australian, or North American school calendars. The school year starts in mid-May, when the rainy season commences, and ends at the beginning of March as the hot season rolls around.
The first semester typically runs from the beginning of May until the first week of October. Students take the end-of-semester exams and have a 2-3 week break; then, they return for the second semester at the beginning of November.
Final exams are held in late February or early March before the school year ends. Students and teachers will have a holiday; however, the duration will differ in each region/school.
Temperatures peak in March and April, and many schools do not have air conditioning in the classrooms. From March to April, the temperature can be between 36°C-44°C (96°F-111°F).
Studying at school in those temperatures would be very difficult, to say the least! Hence, the Thai school year is scheduled in this way!
Throughout the year, holidays in Thailand include over 23 Public holidays, on which students and teachers get off school, including time off to celebrate Western New Year. However, most Public holidays are based on Buddhist culture and beliefs.
The second Thai school holiday is typically 2 to 3 weeks in October; however, it depends on the school and location. These are part of the school holidays, crucial for family planning.
The Thai school year puts elementary and secondary school graduation in February. In Thailand, graduating from school is a big deal! There are grand ceremonies in the schools, and the younger students and sometimes even the teachers will give flowers and cuddly toys as gifts to the graduating students.
In some schools, the younger students will put on a show for the graduating students. This can involve singing and dancing, and students will spend days in advance practicing to perfect their performances. Other schools will set up photo booths/stations with banners and balloons for the students to pose with their gifts, gowns, and garlands.
Graduation Day is a massive celebration and an enjoyable day for Thai students. One they look forward to throughout their school life and one not to be missed as a teacher in the land of smiles!
Overview of the Thai Education System
The Thai education system, overseen by the Ministry of Education, is designed to provide all citizens equal access to quality education. It is structured into several levels: preschool, elementary school, lower secondary school, upper secondary education, and higher education. Each level aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills among students.
The foundation of the Thai education system is the 1999 National Education Act, which outlines the framework and goals for education in Thailand. This act emphasizes the importance of holistic development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world. From primary education to upper secondary education, the system strives to nurture well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.
Private and International Schools
In addition to the traditional Thai education system, private and international schools offer a valuable alternative for both expatriate and Thai students seeking an international education. These schools provide a range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate and the British National Curriculum, catering to diverse educational needs and preferences.
Private and international schools in Thailand are known for their high standards and rigorous academic programs. They are often accredited by prestigious international organizations, such as the Council of International Schools, ensuring that they meet global educational benchmarks. These schools focus on providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected world, fostering skills that are essential for global citizenship.
Childcare Options During School Holidays
Balancing work and family responsibilities during school holidays can be challenging for parents. Fortunately, there are several childcare options available in Thailand to help manage this period. Many international schools offer summer camps and holiday programs that provide a fun and educational experience for children. These programs often include a variety of activities, such as sports, arts, and crafts, ensuring that children remain engaged and active.
Additionally, private childcare centers and nurseries offer full-day and half-day programs for children of all ages, providing a structured environment during school holidays. For parents seeking more personalized care, nannies and babysitters are also available, offering one-on-one attention to meet individual needs.
Expat groups and online communities can be excellent resources for parents looking for reliable childcare options during school holidays. These platforms often share recommendations and reviews, helping parents make informed decisions about the best childcare solutions for their families.
Thai School Terms
The Thai school terms for the academic year are from May until October for the first semester and from November until March. Private schools, particularly international ones, often follow different academic calendars that resemble Western educational timelines.
Thai School Holidays
Thailand’s formal holidays are typically 6 to 8 weeks between the end of March and the middle of May because it is the hottest time of the year in Thailand. The second Thai school holiday is typically 2 to 3 weeks in October; however, it depends on the school and location. Thai schools observe these holidays to align with the academic calendar and local traditions.
Thai School Calendar FAQ’s
Thai School Terms
The Thai school terms for the academic year are from May until October for the first semester and from November until March. Private schools, particularly international ones, often follow different academic calendars that resemble Western educational timelines.
Thailand University Academic Calendar
Semester one starts in June and ends in October; semester two begins in mid-November and ends in March.
Thai School Holidays
Thailand’s formal holidays are typically 6 to 8 weeks between the end of March and the middle of May because it is the hottest time of the year in Thailand. The second Thai school holiday is typically 2 to 3 weeks in October; however, it depends on the school and location. Thai schools observe these holidays to align with the academic calendar and local traditions.
Mother's Day in Thailand
Mother's Day in Thailand was first celebrated on April 15, 1950. In 1976, it was switched to August 12 to celebrate the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, deemed the Mother of all Thai people.
Father's Day in Thailand
One of the numerous public holidays on Thailand's calendar is the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, The Great. The 5th of December celebrates the Great King's Birthday and is observed as Father's Day.
Related
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/laosvisaguide to read the guidelines for a visa run to Savannakhet, Laos.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/savankhet-laos-thai-visa-application-form-guidelines to read the guidelines for completing the visa application form.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog//understanding-thai-visa-categories-employment-document-process to read about the various categories of Thai visas and information for teaching in Thailand.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/teacher-training-program-thailand to read about Meaningful Work and Travel Teaching Positions starting in May 2023 with teacher training in April 2023.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/lantern-festival-loy-krathong-lamphun-thailand to read about Teacher Olga’s experience in Lamphun Province Thailand during Loy Krathong Festival 2022.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/seasons-in-thailand-explained to read about the seasons and climate in Thailand.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/the-thai-school-calendar to read about Thailand's school year and how it differs from most other countries.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/loy-krathong-lantern-yipeng-2022 to read about Loy Krathong and Yi-Ping/Ye-Peng Festivals in Thailand.
Go to https://kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/the-complete-guide-to-the-thai-alphabet to read a detailed guide to Thai and Alphabet languages.
Remember to check out our social media links at the bottom of the page. Like & subscribe to keep up to date with everything new from us here at Kids English Thailand. To share this blog post, click the Share Icon below.
Overview of the Thai Education System
The Thai education system, overseen by the Ministry of Education, is designed to provide equal access to quality education for all citizens. It is structured into several levels: pre-school, elementary school, lower secondary school, upper secondary education, and higher education. Each level aims to develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills among students.
The foundation of the Thai education system is the 1999 National Education Act, which outlines the framework and goals for education in Thailand. This act emphasizes the importance of holistic development, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern world. From primary education to upper secondary education, the system strives to nurture well-rounded individuals who can contribute positively to society.
Private and International Schools
In addition to the traditional Thai education system, private and international schools offer a valuable alternative for both expatriate and Thai students seeking an international education. These schools provide a range of curricula, including the International Baccalaureate and the British National Curriculum, catering to diverse educational needs and preferences.
Private and international schools in Thailand are known for their high standards and rigorous academic programs. They are often accredited by prestigious international organizations, such as the Council of International Schools, ensuring that they meet global educational benchmarks. These schools focus on providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in an increasingly interconnected world, fostering skills that are essential for global citizenship.
Childcare Options During School Holidays
Balancing work and family responsibilities during school holidays can be challenging for parents. Fortunately, there are several childcare options available in Thailand to help manage this period. Many international schools offer summer camps and holiday programs that provide a fun and educational experience for children. These programs often include a variety of activities, such as sports, arts, and crafts, ensuring that children remain engaged and active.
Additionally, private childcare centers and nurseries offer full-day and half-day programs for children of all ages, providing a structured environment during school holidays. For parents seeking more personalized care, nannies and babysitters are also available, offering one-on-one attention to meet individual needs.
Expat groups and online communities can be excellent resources for parents looking for reliable childcare options during school holidays. These platforms often share recommendations and reviews, helping parents make informed decisions about the best childcare solutions for their families.
Thai School Terms
The Thai school terms for the academic year are from May until October for the first semester and from November until March. Private schools, particularly international ones, often follow different academic calendars that resemble Western educational timelines.
Thai School Holidays
Thailand’s formal holidays are typically 6 to 8 weeks between the end of March and the middle of May because it is the hottest time of the year in Thailand. The second Thai school holiday is typically 2 to 3 weeks in October; however, it depends on the school and location. Thai schools observe these holidays to align with the academic calendar and local traditions.
Thai School Calendar FAQ’s
Thai School Terms
The Thai school terms for the academic year are from May until October for the first semester and from November until March. Private schools, particularly international ones, often follow different academic calendars that resemble Western educational timelines.
Thailand University Academic Calendar
Semester one starts in June and ends in October; semester two begins in mid-November and ends in March.
Thai School Holidays
Thailand’s formal holidays are typically 6 to 8 weeks between the end of March and the middle of May because it is the hottest time of the year in Thailand. The second Thai school holiday is typically 2 to 3 weeks in October; however, it depends on the school and location. Thai schools observe these holidays to align with the academic calendar and local traditions.
Mother's Day in Thailand
Mother's Day in Thailand was first celebrated on April 15, 1950. In 1976, it was switched to August 12 to celebrate the birthday of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, deemed the Mother of all Thai people.
Father's Day in Thailand
One of the numerous public holidays on Thailand's calendar is the birthday of the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, The Great. The 5th of December celebrates the Great King's Birthday and is observed as Father's Day.
Related
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/laosvisaguide to read the guidelines for a visa run to Savannakhet, Laos.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/savankhet-laos-thai-visa-application-form-guidelines to read the guidelines for completing the visa application form.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog//understanding-thai-visa-categories-employment-document-process to read about the various categories of Thai visas and information for teaching in Thailand.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/teacher-training-program-thailand to read about Meaningful Work and Travel Teaching Positions starting in May 2023 with teacher training in April 2023.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/lantern-festival-loy-krathong-lamphun-thailand to read about Teacher Olga’s experience in Lamphun Province Thailand during Loy Krathong Festival 2022.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/seasons-in-thailand-explained to read about the seasons and climate in Thailand.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/the-thai-school-calendar to read about Thailand's school year and how it differs from most other countries.
Go to kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/loy-krathong-lantern-yipeng-2022 to read about Loy Krathong and Yi-Ping/Ye-Peng Festivals in Thailand.
Go to https://kidsenglishthailand.org/blog/the-complete-guide-to-the-thai-alphabet to read a detailed guide to Thai and Alphabet languages.
Remember to check out our social media links at the bottom of the page. Like & subscribe to keep up to date with everything new from us here at Kids English Thailand. To share this blog post, click the Share Icon below.