
Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST)
CISTFounded 2017
Updated July 2026
Curriculum
Accreditations
Languages
The Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) is an international day and boarding school located on a 9.2-acre riverside campus in Bangkok, serving students from ages 2 to 18. Established in 2017, the school combines the Ontario Curriculum with the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework to provide a multilingual, future-ready education.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
The school's philosophy is built on pairing the warmth of Thai heritage with the student-centered, innovative approach of a Canadian education. It emphasizes a personalized approach to learning that supports each child's intellectual, emotional, creative, and physical needs. CIST aims to cultivate curious, compassionate, and courageous learners who are prepared to contribute positively to both local and global communities.
Programmes
CIST offers an educational pathway from Early Years (ages 2 to 5) through Primary (ages 6 to 11) and Secondary (ages 12 to 18). As an IB World School, it delivers the Ontario Curriculum through the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Grades 6 to 10, culminating in the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) for Grades 11 and 12. The academic program is supported by diverse language opportunities, including French, Thai, and Mandarin language and culture courses, a Mandarin-Immersion Programme, and an Intensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme.
Outcomes
CIST prepares its graduates for success in higher education, with its IB and Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) pathways globally recognized for academic rigor. The school hosts visits from prestigious Canadian institutions, such as Toronto and Queen's University, to guide students toward tertiary study opportunities. Graduates benefit from advanced standing, course credits, scholarships, and enhanced university admissions opportunities worldwide.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides tailored academic and emotional support to meet the diverse needs of its student body. This includes dedicated Learning Support Assistants (LSAs) who assist students in their daily learning journeys, alongside an Intensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) Programme to help non-native speakers build language proficiency.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) offer?
- Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) offers Ontario Curriculum, IB PYP and IB MYP.
- What ages does Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) teach?
- Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) enrolls students aged 2 to 18.
- Is Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) a day or boarding school?
- Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) is a day and boarding school.
- What accreditations does Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) hold?
- Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) holds accreditations including IB.
- Where is Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) located?
- Canadian International School of Thailand (CIST) is an international school in Bangkok, Thailand.
Tuition & fees
No published fee schedule was found for this school.
Admissions
The admissions process at CIST begins with an online application, and the school provides dedicated student visa support for families relocating to Thailand. To accommodate diverse international families, the admissions team offers interview translation options in English, Thai, Chinese, and French by appointment. Families are also encouraged to register for open days and book campus tours through the admissions office.
Calendar
The school operates on an annual academic calendar, with schedules published for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 academic years. Campus opening hours for administrative and admissions inquiries are Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, excluding public holidays.
Facilities
About the campus
Situated on a 9.2-acre campus along the Chao Phraya River, the school features specialist classrooms, science laboratories, and lush tropical gardens. Recreational spaces include the newly redesigned "Maple Park" playground, while dining options feature the Montreal Café and an expansive cafeteria serving Thai and Western cuisine. On-site boarding is available, with a secure girls' residence located directly on campus and a newly developed boys' boarding facility situated in an adjacent riverside soi.
Co-curriculars
CIST offers a rich variety of extracurricular activities and field trips designed to foster well-rounded and resilient individuals. The school hosts numerous community and cultural events throughout the year, including Chinese New Year, the Winter Show, Loy Krathong, Trunk or Treat, Songkran, Book Week, and a Science Fair.



- Mr Ian RysdaleHead of School
Mr. Ian Rysdale serves as the Head of School, emphasizing a safe, nurturing, and challenging environment for students. He focuses on personalized learning, strong partnerships with parents, and the integration of Thai culture with global perspectives.
- Mrs Ally GallowayEarly Years & Primary Principal
Mrs. Ally Galloway is the Early Years and Primary Principal, holding an M.Ed. in Leadership & Management and a B.Ed. in Early Childhood. She is dedicated to fostering a sense of belonging and inquiry-based learning for students in the Early Years and Elementary (PYP) community.
- Mr Dana BlouinVice Principal Secondary
Mr. Dana Blouin serves as the Vice Principal of Secondary, focusing on strengthening learning pathways and student wellbeing. He brings a hands-on, learning-by-doing approach to leadership, aiming to help students develop competence, character, and a sense of purpose.
- Vice Principal Academics and PYP CoordinatorVice Principal Academics and PYP Coordinator
This individual serves as the Vice Principal of Academics and PYP Coordinator, with over 15 years of experience in inquiry-driven learning. They are an Ontario Certified Teacher (OCT) who supports the delivery of the Ontario Curriculum and IB Primary Years Programme (PYP) through transdisciplinary planning and collaborative leadership.
- Vice Principal OperationsVice Principal Operations
The Vice Principal of Operations has 22 years of experience in teaching and leadership. They are committed to nurturing student confidence, curiosity, and resilience, with a focus on guiding students to discover their passions and fulfill their potential.
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Ontario Curriculum
IB PYP