Years 5 to 8 (Ages 9 to 13)

From Year 5 (age 9), all students have specialist teachers for all subjects, with 'setting' in English and maths.

This means that teachers are trained, experienced and, importantly, passionate about the subjects they teach. They also work in specially designed classrooms and teaching areas tailored to each subject. For example, teaching art in a dedicated art room with a specialist art teacher simply makes sense if you want students to enjoy the subject and truly progress.

'Setting' refers to grouping students by their ability level in a specific subject, rather than keeping the whole year group together for every lesson. For example, in maths classes, the year group are divided into different 'sets' based on current attainment or progress. Students in each set are then taught at a pace and level that suits them. Theses sets then change for English classes. How it helps students:

• Better pace of learning: Students are neither held back nor rushed. Teaching can match their current level more closely.
• More targeted teaching: Teachers can pitch lessons, questions and support appropriately, which improves understanding.
• Increased confidence: Students are more likely to contribute and engage when the work feels accessible and achievable.
• Greater challenge where needed: Higher-attaining students can be stretched without waiting for others to catch up.
• Support where needed: Students who need more time or reinforcement can receive it without pressure.

Rugby School Thailand treats setting as flexible, meaning students can move between sets as they progress. The goal is not to label students, but to help each one achieve their best within their year group.

In Years 7 and 8 students move away from learning humanities, and instead are taught history and geography separately. Year 7 and 8 students also join our 'Bring your own Device' (BYOD) scheme in preparation for their transition into the Senior School.