British International School of the Year 2026

We are delighted to share the news that Rugby School Thailand has been named one of six global finalists for the 2026 Independent School of the Year (ISOTY) Awards, in the category of British International School of the Year.

This is the third consecutive year that our School has been selected as a finalist in the category, a wonderful recognition of the work of our students, staff and wider School community.

Celebrating the RST approach to outdoor education

While the award considers the School as a whole, this year’s submission placed a particular focus on something that is central to the RST experience: our unique approach to outdoor education.

From the age of 2 to 18, our students have opportunities to learn beyond the traditional classroom, making the most of our 80-acre campus and its natural environment. Through Forest School, AES, our Outdoor Education Centre, residential experiences, Duke of Edinburgh and our wider co-curricular programme, students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, try new things and learn how to navigate challenges.

These experiences are about much more than simply being outdoors. Over time, they help children develop resilience, independence, confidence, teamwork and practical life skills – qualities that remain with them long after an activity or adventure has finished.

It is particularly meaningful to see this aspect of an RST education recognised on an international stage, as it reflects our belief that education should prepare young people not only for academic success, but for life beyond School.

A year of continued growth

The ISOTY recognition comes during an exciting period of development for Rugby School Thailand. Alongside the continued growth of our academic, co-curricular and boarding programmes, our campus is also evolving.

This year, we are opening our new Golf Performance Centre, creating further opportunities for students to develop their skills and passions in sport. Our new 750-seat Teepsuwan Theatre will provide a state-of-the-art home for performances, productions and major School events, as well as becoming the home of the Thailand International Youth Orchestra (TIYO).

These developments add to the breadth of opportunities available to our students and reflect our continued ambition for what an RST education can offer.

Being named "British International School of the Year" finalist for a third year is something our whole School community can be proud of. Most importantly, it is a celebration of our students and the many ways in which they grow, challenge themselves and discover what they are capable of, supported by our dedicated staff and the families who make up our School community.

Stay up to date with the Independent School of the Year Awards here.