Term 3 - 16 May 2025
Matters of Principal
Whole School
Announcements
NEW TRAILS
Walking to Wisdom Valley from the School campus is now even easier with our brand new tracks and trails for you to explore. Highlighting our wonderful green surroundings, these pathways will lead you to the array of facilities available for our community to enjoy. Students can challenge themselves with their balance bikes and scooters on the custom made track, whilst families can relax under the sheltered seating and enjoy a drink from The Chalet. We look forward to seeing our families making use of this newly renovated space.
COBIS STUDENT AWARDS
We would like to congratulate Summer (Year 7), Rute (Year 11) and Captain (Year 12) for being recognised in the COBIS Student Achievement Awards. These awards recognise outstanding individual achievements or contributions to school and community life. The full list of award recipients is available here: www.cobis.org.uk/saa
ENROLLMENT
We would like to remind you that while many of our year groups are full, we are still accepting applications for enrollments to the School. If you do have friends or family thinking of applying, we encourage them to do so as soon as possible. For more information and to complete an application form, please click here.
Reminders
ENGLISH ADVENTURE CAMP
Our brand-new English Adventure Camp is the perfect choice for families wanting to give their child a fun-filled summer camp experience, with the added benefit of boosting their English. Combining the expertise of our School's EAL team with the skillfully crafted fun of our holiday camps, this immersive week of learning and laughter offers 15 hours of English alongside a whole host of engaging activities. Of course, RST families will also be entitled to a 10% discount for this camp.
Click here to discover more or register.
AIS E-WASTE DRIVE
Our AIS e-waste drive is still running until the end of Term 3. We are collecting items such as power banks, mobile phones, tablets, batteries, charging cables and earphones.
Our collection points can be found at the following locations:
- Prep School entrance
- Senior reception
- Pre-Prep entrance
Please note that any personal data should be removed from devices before leaving it at our collection points. Thank you.
Dates for your Diary
SUMMER SOIRÉE
Our talented musicians are busy rehearsing for an unforgettable evening of performances for our Summer Soirée which takes place in the Veraphan Theatre next week on Tuesday, 20th May. A limited number of tickets are available and can be collected from the Senior Reception. We look forward to seeing you there to support our F and E block students.
SAVE THE DATE
We are excited to share that our annual Charity Golf Day is back for 2025. This popular event will be held on Sunday, 28th September so save the date in your diaries and look out for more information coming soon.
Highlight of the Week
THE WHOLE JOURNEY
We caught up with Farida Valli-Kahumbu, Year 3 Teacher and MAD Charity Coordinator, who shares her views on the importance of our roles as educators to create globally minded students by listening to them and supporting their journey through the Prep School.
RSTPA COOKING CLASS
There was another fantastic turnout for our RSPTA Cooking Class this week, exploring the delicious flavours of Italy. Dishes included a spinach pie (Erbazzone), meatballs (Pulpette Al Sufi) and a classic Panna Cotta to finish. As always, we are very grateful to our wonderful RSTPA for another successful class. We look forward to one final class for this academic year which will take place on Friday, 20th June, led by our Australian team.
SCIENCE FAIR FINALS
Four of our students attended the Science Fair finals in Bangkok and we are incredibly proud to announce that all four were awarded trophies in their respective categories. Jayden won 1st place for Year 1 and 2, Adriel won 3rd place for Year 3 and 4, Chapter and Arin won 3rd place for Year 5 and 6. They also attended a presentation by ShelterBox and took part in a STEM challenge with students from different schools to create a shelter together. This was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with others and share their exciting projects. Well done, Jayden, Adriel, Chapter and Arin.
Senior
Announcements
100% SUCCESS RATE FOR LSE NUMBERS
We are proud to announce that every single one of our students who applied to the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) this year received an offer — a 100% acceptance rate. Congratulations to Lilly, Perth and Pleng on their outstanding achievement. At Rugby School Thailand we have strong links to LSE, with many alumni staff and a highly experienced Higher Education team who are able to tailor their support for each student's application process. Our students had access to the invaluable application refinement skills of Mrs Cecil and leaned on enrichment advice, interview preparation and essay writing coaching from our passionate ‘in-house’ Economists, Dr Field, Mrs Rees and Mr Threlfall. Mr Groves (Head of Senior) and Alumni coordinator, Mr Markes recently visited LSE and we look forward to continuing building our relationship in the future.
MASTERING U.S. COLLEGE ADMISSIONS
Students are invited to join an upcoming virtual masterclass where current Harvard Student Mentors will guide them through the U.S. College Admissions process.
- Date: Saturday 17th May
- Time: 9am-10.30am EST
- Platform: Zoom
To register, please click here.
VIRTUAL WORKSHOPS FROM MACALESTER
For students interested in applying for colleges in the U.S. please take a look at these free online Workshop Wednesdays, taking place in July and August. This series gives you access to the admissions team at Macalester, who will share strategies and advice around topics such as:
- Writing a College Essay
- Unpacking The Liberal Arts
- Filling out the Common Application
- Navigating Financial Aid
Click here view all Workshop Wednesdays.
Reminders
CAMBRIDGE PRESENTATION
Last month we welcomed back Dr Kaman Yunis from Downing College, University of Cambridge. For those who were unable to attend his talk, a copy of the presentation can now be found here.
SAVE THE DATE: ERUC FAIR 2025
Back by popular demand, the Eastern Region University Counsellors (ERUC) Global University Fair returns to Pattaya to connect students with over 100 global universities - all under one roof. Whether you're exploring options or ready to take the next step, this is your chance to discover what’s possible.
Sunday, 21 September 2025
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Central Pattaya (venue TBC)
HIGHER EDUCATION EVENTS
Our Higher Education team has compiled a list of the most relevant university events for the coming months, including open days and webinars, which you can view here.
Dates for your Diary
23rd MAY:
Senior RSTPA Meeting
30th MAY:
Half term
Highlights
WHARTON HIGH SCHOOL DATA SCIENCE COMPETITION
Our Data Minors team recently took part in a strategic challenge focusing on basketball tournament predictions. The teams were tasked to clean and explore data, build predictive models and communicate their findings. Out of 362 entries, spanning 34 different countries, our incredibly talented students achieved a spot in the Top 25. Well done Leon, Oscar, Joey and Pat - A truly fantastic result and we look forward to taking part again in the future.
F BLOCK REVIEW: DRAMA AND ENRICHMENT
Our recent F Block Review marked the culmination of a year of curiosity, creativity and growth. Families were invited to this special event showcasing students’ work from their Enrichment activities and Drama, where they have explored new interests and engaged with diverse creative mediums. Students have taken bold steps in their learning, which was evident through their writing, photography, podcasts, music and film making. Each piece on display was accompanied by a personal reflection, offering insight into their process, progress and pride in what they have achieved.
Prep
Announcements
SCIENCE FAIR FINALS
Adriel (Year 3), Chapter (Year 5) and Arin (Year 5) were among a group of four students from our School who recently attended the Science Fair finals in Bangkok. We are incredibly proud to announce that Adriel won 3rd place for Year 3 and 4, with Chapter and Arin also winning 3rd place for Year 5 and 6. This was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with others and share their exciting projects. Well done, Adriel, Chapter and Arin.
RST CHRONICLES
In the latest edition of the RST Chronicles, our student reporters interviewed Mr Howell. Click here to find out what he was like as a student, the importance of sports education and some interesting information about The Philippines.
Reminders
MUSIC ON THE MOVE
Music on the Move is a 5-day music camp for musicians of all ages and abilities presented by PGVIM. The camp takes place in Khao Yai from 16th to 20th July, where students will focus on developing skills in chamber music, taught by international instructors. Additionally, the camp aims to enhance public performance skills in a creative context suitable for the 21st Century.
Applications for students who are interested in participating in this project will be accepted from now until 31st May and a limited number of scholarships are also available.
Click here for more information.
Please note that this camp is a separate entity and not associated in any way with Rugby School Thailand.
BATTLE OF THE BANDS
Calling all rockstars, pop sensations and musical maestros: get ready to unleash your sound at Battle of the Bands 2025. This is your chance to electrify the Blackbox Theatre on Wednesday, 25th June during activity time - whether your band is a well-oiled machine or a new jam session, this is the stage you've been waiting for. Don't miss out on this opportunity to perform live and connect with other musicians. It only takes one band member to sign up using this registration link which will close on Friday, 6th June.
Dates for your Diary
17th MAY:
U11 T Ball v BPS (away)
U11 Volleyball v BPS (away)
U13 Touch Rugby BISA Tournament at Harrow
U13 Badminton BISA Tournament at SHR
18th MAY:
RSTMAD hosting Tamar at the Outdoor Education Centre (RSTMAD Reps Invited)
20th MAY:
9:25 - 12:10 - Year 3 and 4 Swimming Gala (CGA Swimming Pool)
21st MAY:
13:30 - 15:55 - Year 7 and 8 Swimming Gala (CGA Swimming Pool)
22nd MAY:
8:00 - 9:00 - Parent Presentation - Raising your Bilingual Child (Veraphan Theatre)
8:10 - 9:10 - RSTPA Book Club (Prep Library)
13:30 - 15:55 - Year 5 and 6 Swimming Gala (CGA Swimming Pool)
23rd MAY:
8:00 - 9:00 - RSTPA Prep Reps Meeting (Boardroom)
9:00 - 10:00 - Parent Presentation - AI and Protecting your Child (Veraphan Theatre)
24th MAY:
U11 Touch Rugby BISA Tournament (at Harrow)
U13 Touch Rugby BISA Tournament (at Harrow)
U13 Football Invitational (at RST)
25th MAY:
8:30 - 17:30 - RST Rock Climbing Trip to Bangkok
Highlights
PREP MUSIC RECITALS
This week's music recitals were a vibrant celebration of talent, featuring 43 students across three performances. We enjoyed a wonderful range of styles and abilities, from first-time performers to those further developing their performance skills. It was lovely to see so many supportive families and their music teachers in attendance. A special invitation goes out to our next recital on Wednesday, 21st May taking place in the Veraphan Theatre. This recital will showcase a smaller group with extended repertoire and will be a fantastic opportunity to see some more inspiring performances from our talented students.
HOUSE BAKE OFF COMPETITION
The RST Bake Off was a fantastic display of teamwork, creativity and baking ambition, where House teams were challenged to create custard tartlets. Webb Ellis showed some great technical skills; Beauclerc impressed with creative presentations and a consistent team effort; Hardy had moments of both order and chaos; and Arnold displayed some excellent improvisation. All teams gave it their best and the spirit of friendly competition was inspiring to watch. The winners will be revealed at the End of Term Assembly, may the best baker win.
Pre-Prep
Announcements
SCIENCE FAIR FINALS
Jayden (Year 2) was among a group of four students from our School who recently attended the Science Fair finals in Bangkok. We are incredibly proud to announce that Jayden was awarded 1st place in the Year 1 and 2 category. This was a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with others and share his exciting project. Well done, Jayden.
Reminders
UNWELL CHILDREN
If your child has a fever or is unwell, we kindly ask that parents keep them at home to help prevent the spread of germs. Giving children medicine and then sending them to School only masks their symptoms which then come out again later in the day when the medicine has worn off. Nurse Koy is very careful to ensure she checks children with symptoms and if they are deemed to be unwell then they must go home. We understand that this may not always be convenient for parents but it is important that children who are unwell get the rest they need at home. We ask for your support by not sending in unwell children and to collect them from School should the Nurse request this. Your cooperation is truly appreciated.
Dates for Your Diary
21st MAY:
Year 1 Class Assembly - Sharks and Ducks
23rd MAY:
Performing Arts Show (Music and Dance) - 9am in the Pre-Prep Assembly Hall (open to parents of those participating)
27th MAY:
Computing Big Talk - oversharing and staying safe online - 8:30am
28th MAY:
Year 1 class Assembly - Flamingos and Turtles
30th MAY - 3rd JUNE:
Half Term
4th JUNE - 5th JUNE:
Reception visit the OEC
4th JUNE:
Hand to Hand visit Pre-Prep for PE and Swimming
4th JUNE:
Reception to Year 1 transition meeting - 8:30am Assembly hall with Miss Sarah (open to current Reception parents)
6th JUNE:
Year 2 Swimming Gala - CGA pool 1:30-3:00pm
Highlights
MUSIC SHARING MAGIC
Our Year 1 and 2 musicians shone brightly in our Music Sharing sessions this week. With Go-for-it Gorillas and Persevering Penguins bravely stepping up to perform, they have shown courage and commitment in sharing their talents. Our Proud Peacocks beamed with confidence after each performance, while our Caring Koalas showed true kindness by listening attentively and cheering on their friends. Music lessons truly nurture not only skills, but also young hearts.
FOREST SCHOOL WORKSHOP
Miss Sarah and Mr Chris led a fantastic, interactive workshop for parents ahead of our official Forest School launch in August. Despite the weather forcing them inside, the session was a brilliant mix of creativity, laughter, communication and teamwork. Attendees were challenged to build something strong enough to hold a grown adult, using a small selection of resources provided to them. Thankfully, our forest school parents were up to the task and produced some solid structures using only wooden sticks, ropes and scissors. They rolled up their sleeves and became “Teamwork Tigers” just like their children - demonstrating leadership, communication, perseverance and had plenty of fun along the way. It was wonderful to see our parents stepping into their children’s shoes —experiencing the same hands-on learning, problem-solving and reflection that Forest School inspires every day.
Sport and Enrichment
Sport
SPORTS UPDATE
Over the last week, more than 150 students from our School have been participating in various sporting events both at our incredible RST facilities and across other Bangkok schools. The students showcased their dedication and enthusiasm in multiple competitions, achieving notable results and gaining valuable sporting experiences.
BPS International 7s Football Tournament
Six teams travelled to the BPS International 7s, a two-day football tournament, competing across the U11, U13 and U15 age groups. The event was filled with outstanding performances and more importantly, a strong sense of community as the students supported each other both on and off the field. Highlights include:
- U11 Boys: Plate Champions - A huge congratulations to our U11 boys who powered their way to victory and brought home the plate trophy.
- U11 Girls: Plate Runners-Up - Our U11 girls also put in an amazing effort, finishing as plate runners-up.
- U13 Boys: Reaching the Semi-Finals Our U13 boys battled hard and made it to the semi-finals. They narrowly missed out on a place in the final after a tough loss on penalties – we're so proud of their determination.
- U15 Girls: Plate Runners-Up Fantastic work from our U15 girls who also secured the plate runners-up position.
U12 Badminton
More than 25 opponents from Ruamrudee International School (RIS) travelled to our School to meet 15 of our U12 badminton players for a friendly fixture. Each player managed a minimum of five matches, gaining essential match practice ahead of upcoming tournaments. The fixture proved to be a valuable and enjoyable experience for all involved.
U14 Badminton
A team of 16 students travelled to Bangkok to compete against RIS. Facing tough opposition, our students displayed resilience and a strong work ethic, battling for every point. Despite the challenge, the players enjoyed the competition and came away with worthy match experience.
U14 Boys Rugby and Girls Touch
In our first major schools rugby tournament, both the U14 boys and girls teams displayed great sportsmanship and determination across the two-day event. The boys team performed admirably, finishing 4th out of seven teams, while the girls team gained invaluable experience in touch rugby, further developing their skills for future matches.
U11 Mini Volleyball Festival
Twelve U11 students represented our School at the mini volleyball festival hosted by RIS, competing as three separate teams. Each player participated in multiple games, gaining practical experience that will serve them well in the upcoming tournament at Bangkok Patana School. The festival was an excellent opportunity to develop team coordination and volleyball skills.
International Schools' Golf Tour
Our golf team is celebrating a landmark achievement, having secured the Nett Order of Merit title for the 2024/25 season on the International Schools’ Golf Tour. Along the way, the team claimed multiple Nett wins and celebrated a series of individual Gross victories, showcasing both depth and talent throughout the squad. As we look ahead to next year, our School is hosting a three day tournament with WAGR approval for U16 ages and above in early December. This should be a fantastic event and we look forward to seeing schools from across South-East Asia compete.
Boarding Life
Boarding
TAKE CARE KIDS
On Tuesday evening, Saki, Julie, TaKe, Meeya and Sophie from Marshall House visited Take Care Kids with Miss Lurica to donate the money that was raised from our recent charity events. In total, 15.2k THB was raised from our Marshall House Market Day and 5.7k THB was raised from our movie nights. Everyone was really excited to meet each other and our boarders did a fantastic job of asking the Take Care Kids children and staff lots of questions. They also saw how tidy the bedrooms were and said it inspired them to take better care of their own rooms. Thank you to everyone involved in raising this money - especially Miss Lurica who models what it means to be kind and globally minded to all around her.
Community Events
FREE KIDZOONA VOUCHERS
Kidzoona have kindly given our School a limited number of free vouchers to use at their Central Pattaya branch. Vouchers can be collected from either the Pre-Prep, Prep or Admin offices, and are valid until the 31st May.
Kidzoona also offer birthday party packages, with group discounts. For more information please contact them directly on 061-4170183.
FOREST SCHOOL TRAINING
We are pleased to announce that we will be hosting Forest School training (Levels 1, 2 and 3) this August, led by the esteemed Sarah Blackwell and her expert team. This training will offer invaluable insights and practical skills whether you are just beginning to explore the enriching principles of Forest School or are a seasoned practitioner seeking to deepen your expertise. Level 1 is a one-day introductory course, while Levels 2 and 3 are in-depth five-day programmes. Participants will gain practical skills and knowledge essential for establishing and leading successful Forest School initiatives. For full details and registration information, please contact napattra@rugbyschool.ac.th or scan the QR code on the below poster.
YOGA AT CENTRAL MARINA
The RST community has an offer to join a free yoga class by Balance Yoga Pattaya at Central Marina Shopping Mall until 21st June, every Saturday from 1:30-2:30 PM. This offer is open to students, staff and parents. Attendees must register in advance using the QR code below and bring their own yoga mat.
Social Media and More
Keep up to date with all that's happening at RST via our social media channels and our website blog section.
