ABOUT WIS
How is WIS different from other international schools in Thailand?
Thailand has a very high ratio of international schools per capita compared to other countries in Asia, providing parents with an immense number of choices. However, most international schools in Thailand offer only British or American curricula, with few other options available.
WIS is one of only two full British/French international schools, and the only one in the world offering mixed classes for both curricula (in Music, Art, Sports, and Foreign Languages) and a central campus in the heart of Lamai.
The Fully International philosophy permeates our school, and our values of integrity, caring, community and growth are central to our learning and actions. To inspire, empower and enrich our students, we diligently work to provide unique learning opportunities that you may not find at other international schools in Thailand.
What Does WIS Offer that Other International Schools in Thailand Do Not?
In addition to 40 Extra Curricular Activities for free that encourage and challenge our students, WIS partners with elite organizations around the globe to offer first-class programmes and resources such as the The Rotary International and AEFE-UNSS ASIA, for example.
While there are many international schools in Thailand, few are accredited by the French Ministry of Education, Cambridge and Oxford and can offer the expansive facilities, resources and programmes available at WIS while also maintaining a strong, caring community.
How multicultural is WIS?
WIS was founded primarily to serve the children of expatriate families living temporarily in koh Samui. We also welcome Thai and other long-term, Samui-based residents who are committed to the mission of the school and can contribute meaningfully to our community.
Approximately 14% of student population is Thai, while the remaining 86% represents over 40 nationalities.
Can English language learners’ study at WIS?
WIS has a well-resourced English Department, besides mainstream English WIS serves English as an Additional Language (EAL), English as Foreign Language (EFL), English as a Second Language (ESL), and English Learning Support (ELS). Both in the elementary school and Lower Secondary we are able to accept beginner English language learners. Because of the curricular demands in the higher secondary school, we are able to support intermediate and advanced level English language learners.
English is the language of instruction in all year levels and it is important that students are able to successfully access the curriculum within our available EAL/ELS support resources. We may therefore limit the number of EAL and ELS students in each year level to ensure they have access to needed services and that strong English language standards are maintained throughout the school. However, in line with our values and philosophy, we do not charge any additional
fees for this support.
Does WIS offer boarding?
We are a day school and do not have boarding facilities. Students must therefore reside with their parent(s) or other legal guardian appointed by their parents and live at a location within commuting distance to the campus.
How many students and teachers are there per class in each year level?
At Windfield International School we pride ourselves on the care we give to students and the partnership we form with parents to allow children to be happy as well as successful. In both academic development and pastoral care, we insist on the highest standards. Our student/teacher ratios are key in supporting these goals at every level in the school.
EARLY YEARS
In our EY1 class there will be no more than 15 to 17 students. There is one full-time, fully-qualified teacher with specific Early Years qualifications and experience in teaching the Early Years Framework Strategy. The teacher is supported by at least two trained classroom assistants.
In our EY2 class there will be no more than 15 to 20 children. The children are supported by one full-time, fully-qualified teacher with specific Early Years qualifications and experience in teaching the Early Years Framework Strategy and one or two trained classroom assistants.
YEARS 1 and 2 (KEY STAGE 1)
In each Key Stage 1 class, there are normally between 18 and 24 students. In each Key Stage 1 class children are supported by one full-time, fully-qualified teacher with specific primary school teaching qualifications and experience and knowledge of both the Cambridge and the English National Curriculum. Each class has a trained teaching assistant who supports children in all curriculum areas including English as an Additional Language (EAL), English Learning Support (ELS), Guided Reading and Phonics.
YEARS 3 to 6 (KEY STAGE 2)
In Year 3 to Year 6 class sizes are normally 20 to 24. In Year 3 to Year 6 children are supported by one full-time, fully-qualified teacher with specific primary school teaching qualifications and experience. Each class has a specialist trained teacher who supports children in all curriculum areas including English as an Additional Language (EAL), English Learning Support (ELS), Guided Reading and Phonics.
YEARS 7 to 9 (KEY STAGE 3)
In Key Stage 3, students move into the departmental system of the Secondary School, with each subject being taught by specialist teachers. Students study 13 subjects each in a programme which provides breadth in learning experience and opportunity, balanced with a rich co-curricular offering. The average class size across the Key Stage is normally between 22 and 24 students per class.
YEARS 10 and 11 (KEY STAGE 4)
In Key Stage 4, students are working towards their iGCSE public examinations with Cambridge Assessment International Examinations (CAIE) at the end of Year 11. The average class size is normally around 20 students. In many subjects, the number of students per class is even more favourable.
YEARS 12 and 13 (THE SIXTH FORM) (KEY STAGE 5)
Students study 4 subjects for their AS-Levels, and 3 subjects for their A-Levels with an average class size of 12 to 16.
Tutor Groups are kept to approximately 12 students per form and students receive high quality mentoring and higher education careers advice.
Working across the school are an Art and Design technician, a Sports technician, a Science technician and a team of administrative and curriculum support staff.
Notes:
The class sizes provided above are indicative, depending on enrolment.
ADMISSIONS
What criteria do you use to make your admissions decisions?
In accordance with our mission statement, we serve children in Early Years to Year 13 who are committed to the mission of the school and can contribute meaningfully to our community. We want every student to thrive, and WIS will provide learning pathways for students to flourish and
positively impact others.
We are committed to the principle of equal opportunity in education and employment. WIS does not discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational, admissions or employment policies, but may take into account factors including an applicant’s prior educational and linguistic background for purposes of admission in order to fulfill our mission, and the availability of resources and services at the school.
WIS exists to serve the educational needs of students from international and internationally- minded families living in Samui, and we strive for a mix of students who represent diversity in nationality. It is the mission of the Admissions Department to help prospective families through
the admissions process in reflection of our core values of integrity, caring, community and growth.
We consider several factors when we review an admissible application in order to make a decision whether to extend an offer of enrollment, including space availability, age, previous
school records and teacher’s recommendation(s), siblings currently at WIS, French or British programme experience, nationality, community involvement, availability of support services.
When should I submit an application?
We take applications all year. Mid-year applications by families coming to Thailand from overseas may be submitted at any time throughout the school year. In all cases we encourage families to visit our campus, if possible, before submitting an application.
This gives us a chance to meet with you, answer your specific questions and give you a personal school tour.
Will my child have to complete any tests before they can begin classes?
No. Each child must be assessed after being considered for acceptance at WIS. The results of the baseline assessment help determine the year level the student will be placed on, as well as the level of English/French language support needed.
LIVING IN KOH SAMUI
What is the traffic like? Does the school provide transportation?
Traffic intensity is quite low in Samui, however to help families avoid the traffic, the WIS Transportation Department provides daily pick-up and drop-off services throughout the island.
Where do most families live?
One of the great advantages of WIS is its central location in Lamai. We’re within easy reach of shopping centers, hospitals, dining, green spaces and entertainment the city has to offer.
As a result, most WIS families choose to live near the school. This also helps to substantially reduce the commute time to school. Koh Samui is a small island with reduced traffic. Thus, almost every location in the island represents a max. 30-minutes drive to school.
We are unable to provide specific recommendations for condos, apartments or homes, but many real estate sites can be found through a Google search.
SCHOOL DAY
What time does school begin and end?
The daily schedule for students varies based on their Extra Curricular Activities (ECA):
- Regular school hours: 8:15 AM – 3:30
- ECA: 3:40 PM – 4:30 PM
Can my child be involved in Extra Curricular Activities?
Yes. WIS offers a wide range of (over 40) activities for students in Years 2 to 13, with a more limited selection being also available for students in Early Years and Year 1. These activities usually take place immediately after school, typically running from 3:40 to 4:30 PM.
Times may vary for some activities, particularly sports. Additionally, some activities–most often those provided by external groups–require an additional parents to take students to a specific location.
Besides regular ECA, WIS has also its competitions sports and Maths Olympics teams, snd a school music band that train and reharsal twice a week, Mondays and Fridays from 3:40 to 4:30 PM.
Do students need to wear a school uniform?
Yes, each child attending WIS must wear the school uniform. Uniforms can be purchased at the school shop, which is open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Does the school provide lunch and snacks?
WIS provide both lunch and mid-morning snacks. Both are free of charge.
All meals are prepared in our in campus kitchen, where two Chefs prepare daily an option of 3 dishes students can choose from: International, Thai, or Vegetarian.
Special diets are provided for by request for ensuring that a child will not be exposed to ingredients unsuited to them. Special diets are available for a child for medical reasons and
usually require a doctor’s statement
WIS Catering also operates a small shop in campus where students and parents may choose to purchase a drink or snack.
Our Admissions Philosophy
In accordance with our mission, vision and values, we serve boys and girls from 3 – 18 years old who are committed to the mission of the school and can contribute meaningfully to our community. We want every student to thrive within our stimulating and challenging academic programme, so all candidates must be able to access the curriculum within our available resources and services. We exist to serve the educational needs of students from international and internationally-minded families living in Koh Samui, and we strive for a mix of students to provide a culturally diverse learning environment.
Do You Have More Questions?
Our admissions staff will be happy to provide you with more information about our community, and you are also welcome to schedule a time to tour our campus.
Get In Touch
Location:
Soi Rungrote Tambon Maret, LAMAI, Surat Thani 84310
Telephone: +66 (0) 77 332 420
Email: [email protected]
School Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:30 AM – 5 PM
Saturday – Sunday: Closed