Highgate International School Thailand is delighted to announce the appointment of Ben Keeling as its Founding Head of School, as the school prepares to open in August 2026.

Drawing on nearly 460 years of educational expertise and a reputation for academic excellence, Highgate International School Thailand will provide a holistic education for up to 1,400 students aged 2 to 18. The school is committed to fostering a lifelong love of learning and inspiring students to embrace learning beyond boundaries.

Ben Keeling joins Highgate International School Thailand from Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong, where he served as Principal for eight years. With nearly 20 years of leadership experience, Ben is widely respected for developing high standards and cultivating strong, productive relationships within school communities.

“I am enormously excited about the prospect of leading the foundation of Highgate International School Thailand,” said Ben. “The strength of our host school and the commitment of our local team to the provision of transformative learning experiences provide an excellent framework for success. I look forward to meeting our founding families and working in partnership to deliver an ambitious, enriching programme of study and a lasting legacy for education in Chonburi and the surrounding area.”

During his tenure at Shrewsbury, Ben played a key role in developing an award-winning campus and securing memberships with prestigious organisations such as the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA). His leadership has been described as energising, compelling, and results-driven.

Adam Pettitt, Head of Highgate School UK, commented:

“Ben’s appointment ensures that our first international campus will reflect the same commitment to excellence that defines Highgate. His experience and vision will guide the school in offering a truly transformative educational experience.”

Highgate International School Thailand will provide an exceptional education, combining academic rigour with opportunities for personal growth. With its innovative approach, the school will empower students to think critically, act confidently, and embrace learning beyond boundaries.

On 5 November 2024, the next chapter in Highgate’s prestigious history was announced. Highgate International School Thailand, the first overseas campus of the renowned Highgate School UK, is set to open its doors in August 2026. We are proud to bring Highgate’s 460-year legacy of educational excellence to Thailand through our partnership with Siam Motors Group (SMG) and the Phornprapha family.

Located near the renowned Siam Country Club in Chonburi, our campus will open with Pre-Prep and Junior School programmes, welcoming children aged 2 to 11. In the years ahead, the school will expand to include Senior School and boarding facilities, ultimately accommodating up to 1,400 students.

Highgate’s distinguished history, dating back to its foundation in 1565, is grounded in a tradition of academic excellence, combined with a steadfast commitment to pastoral care and personal development. These principles are central to our mission at Highgate Thailand, ensuring every child thrives, grows in confidence, and achieves their full potential.

Our school will follow the English National Curriculum, offering globally recognised qualifications such as IGCSEs and A Levels. Guided by Highgate’s ethos of ambitious teaching, personalised care, and a vibrant extracurricular programme, we are dedicated to preparing students for an ever-changing world while fostering a lifelong love of learning.

The purpose-built campus, surrounded by lush greenery, has been thoughtfully designed to inspire and support every aspect of student development. Highlights of our world-class facilities include:

An Olympic-sized swimming pool, promoting physical development and sporting excellence

A FIFA-standard football pitch, fostering teamwork and resilience

A Golf Academy, encouraging focus and discipline

A Library and Media Centre, nurturing creativity and exploration

Specialist spaces for STEM, Music, and the Arts, featuring a state-of-the-art auditorium

As we prepare to open in August 2026, we are excited to bring Highgate’s legacy of excellence to families in Thailand and the wider region. This transformative project reflects the shared vision of Highgate School UK, Siam Motors Group (SMG), and the Phornprapha family to create a world-class educational experience.

We look forward to welcoming our first students and creating a school community where children thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Stay connected with us as we embark on this exciting journey together.