Pattaya, Thailand, is a vibrant coastal city that offers excellent educational opportunities for expatriate families. With a range of top tier international schools following the British and other English based curricula, coupled with family friendly neighborhoods and abundant recreational activities for children, Pattaya is an ideal destination for families seeking a high-quality lifestyle. This article explores the best English curriculum schools in Pattaya, the most suitable residential areas nearby, and fun activities to keep children engaged.
Top English Curriculum Schools in Pattaya
Pattaya boasts several prestigious international schools offering British and other English based curricula, ensuring a seamless transition for students from English-speaking countries. Below are some of the best options:
1. Regents International School Pattaya
Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A Levels, IB Diploma, EYFS, IPC)
Ages: 2–18
Fees (2024/2025): 416,100–790,400 THB/year
Highlights: Part of the Nord Anglia Education network, offering global learning opportunities, STEAM programs, and state-of-the-art facilities. Over 50 nationalities are represented, fostering a multicultural environment.
2. Rugby School Thailand
Curriculum: British (IGCSE, A Levels)
Ages: 2–18
Fees (2024/2025): 525,000–946,000 THB/year
Highlights: Affiliated with the 450yearold Rugby School UK, this campus features extensive sports, arts, and boarding facilities. The school emphasizes holistic development with outdoor education and summer camps.
3. Tara Pattana International School
Curriculum: British (National Curriculum for England)
Ages: 2–18
Fees (2024/2025): 251,000–577,000 THB/year
Highlights: Blends British education with Thai cultural appreciation. Offers excursions, sports, and a strong focus on inquiry based learning.
4. St. Andrews International School, Green Valley
Curriculum: British, IB
Ages: 2–18
Fees (2024/2025): 415,800–799,600 THB/year
Highlights: Known for academic excellence, small class sizes, and a countryside setting. Offers Dutch and IB programs alongside the British curriculum.
5. Garden International School, Rayong
Curriculum: British, IB
Ages: 2–18
Fees (2024/2025): 250,800–580,800 THB/year
Highlights: Located near Ban Chang, this school provides a peaceful learning environment with strong academic results and extracurricular activities.
Best Areas to Live Near International Schools
Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial for families to balance school commutes, amenities, and lifestyle preferences. Here are the top residential areas near Pattaya’s best international schools:
1. East Pattaya (Near Regents, St. Andrews Green Valley)
Why Live Here?
Spacious homes, gated communities, and proximity to international schools.
Family friendly with parks, golf courses, and Mabprachan Lake for outdoor activities.
More affordable than beachfront areas.
Drawbacks: No direct beach access; requires private transport.
2. Jomtien (Near Tara Pattana International School)
Why Live Here?
Quieter than Central Pattaya, with clean beaches and a relaxed expat community.
Close to schools, markets, and family attractions like Cartoon Network Amazone Water Park.
Affordable condos with sea views.
Drawbacks: Limited nightlife; slightly farther from Central Pattaya.
3. Pratumnak Hill (Near Rugby School, Regents)
Why Live Here?
Upscale, serene environment with luxury condos and villas.
Stunning ocean views and proximity to beaches.
Close to Big Buddha Temple and Pattaya Park.
Drawbacks: Higher property prices; hilly terrain may require a car.
4. Wongamat/Naklua (Near Mooltripakdee International School)
The Cliff Pattaya is near here
Why Live Here?
Peaceful, beachfront living with luxury condos.
Traditional Thai charm with modern amenities.
Close to schools and healthcare facilities.
Drawbacks: Limited public transport; higher property costs in prime locations.
5. Na Jomtien (Near Garden International School, Rayong)
Why Live Here?
Emerging area with quieter beaches and affordable housing.
Ideal for families seeking a suburban lifestyle.
Future high speed rail connectivity to Bangkok.
Drawbacks: Farther from Central Pattaya; fewer entertainment options.
Fun Activities for Kids in Pattaya
Pattaya offers numerous family friendly attractions to keep children active and entertained:
1. Water Parks & Amusement Parks
Columbia Pictures Aquaverse & Ramayana Water Park: Thrilling slides and wave pools based on popular movies.
Cartoon Network Amazone: A themed water park with rides inspired by cartoons.
Legend Siam: A cultural theme park showcasing Thai history with interactive exhibits.
2. Outdoor & Educational Activities
Khao Keaw Open Zoo: Home to exotic animals like pygmy hippos and tigers.
Space Inspirium: A science museum with interactive space themed exhibits.
Pattaya Sheep Farm: A petting zoo where kids can interact with animals.
3. Sports & Adventure
Go Karting: Venues like EasyKart and Pattaya Kart Speedway offer kid friendly tracks.
Harbor Land Indoor Playground: Asia’s largest indoor playground with trampolines and climbing walls.
Beach Sports: Jomtien Beach offers jet skiing, parasailing, and paddle boarding.
4. Cultural & Creative Experiences
Art in Paradise 3D Museum: Interactive optical illusion exhibits for creative fun.
Pipo Pony Club: Kids can ride and feed miniature horses.
Conclusion
Pattaya is an excellent choice for expat families, offering world class English curriculum schools, diverse residential areas, and endless recreational activities for children. Whether you prefer the tranquility of East Pattaya, the beachside charm of Jomtien, or the luxury of Pratumnak Hill, there’s a perfect neighborhood to suit your family’s needs. With thrilling water parks, educational museums, and outdoor adventures, children will enjoy an active and enriching lifestyle in this dynamic coastal city.
For more details on schools and properties, explore the provided sources or contact local real estate experts to find your ideal home in Pattaya.