A hands-on, experiential learning that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, cultivating lifelong learners who approach challenges with confidence and adaptability.
Students are encouraged to explore the world around them and make their own discoveries, a more engaging and meaningful learning experience for them
Encourages curiosity and exploration
Students are encouraged to explore and tap into their natural curiosity. They ask questions that are meaningful to them, making learning fun and effortless
Enhances critical thinking skills
By allowing students to discover and learn on their own, they are encouraged to use their critical thinking skills to solve problems and find solutions
Increases engagement
Being much more engaging and exciting for our students compared to traditional methods of instruction, as it allows them to take an active role in their learning
Builds independence and self-confidence
Exploration means taking risks going outside their comfort zones. Students develop a sense of independence and confidence, which leads to greater success in future learning experiences
Promotes deeper understanding
Students are encouraged to make connections between what they already know and what they are learning, which can lead to a deeper understanding of the material
Fosters creativity and innovation
Encourages students to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to problems, which can be valuable skills in many areas of life
Elementary Subjects
NIVA's elementary curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong academic foundation that prepares them for the challenges of secondary school.
English: Reading
The foundation of all learning. Develops communication and comprehension skills that are essential for success in school and beyond
phonics
sight words
comprehension
vocabulary
reading strategies
story elements
prediction
retelling
summarizing
presentation skills
inspire love for reading
build confidence speaking in public
improve fluency and reading speed
English: Writing
Provides opportunities to explain ideas, be creative and express views and feelings that reflect on experiences
vocabulary
spelling
grammar
sentence structure
handwriting
narrative writing
creative writing
descriptive writing
proofreading
research skills
thought organization
formulate & express thoughts coherently
develop a love for writing & storytelling
Mathematics
Essential problem-solving skills, logical reasoning abilities, and a foundation for future academic and career success
addition
subtraction
multiplication
division
fractions
decimals and percentages
measurement
patterns
geometry
time
money
mathematical tools e.g. protractors
develop logical reasoning, skills
apply math to real life situation
Science
Increases understanding of the world around us and the mechanics and reasons of how and why things work.
observation, skills
classification
experimentation
hypothesis
data collection
scientific method
matter and energy
Solar system
Earth's systems
my body
faster a sense of wonder and curiosity
learn to appreciate the world around me
Social Studies
Gain a better understanding of history, geography and cultures. Learn about our society and beyond
geography
history
culture
government and citizenship
diversity
community identity
current events
globalization
human rights
empathy and understanding for others
importance of community and citizenship
IT
Essential skills for the digital age, preparing students for future academic and career opportunities
typing
word processing
spreadsheets
multimedia presentations
paint applications
coding
video editing basics
internet safety & ethics
explore new technologies and tools
build confidence in using technology
Thai
Preserve their cultural heritage, develop language fluency, promote national identity, and foster a sense of pride and belonging
Thai language skills
Thai culture
Thai history
Thai literature
Thai geography
respect and value Thai culture
build confidence for language learning
Chinese
Opens up opportunities for future opportunities with China in a globalized world
chinese characters
pinyin
Chinese culture
pronunciation
tones and intonation
grammar
reading
listening
writing
basic conversational skills
appreciation for cultural diversity
build confidence for language learning
PE
Promotes physical activity, healthy habits, teamwork, and social skills, which are essential for their physical and mental development
fundamental movement skills
hand-eye coordination
agility
spatial awareness
reaction time
balance
flexibility
teamwork
sportsmanship
have fun while being active
build confidence and self-esteem
Arts & Crafts
Develops their creativity, fine motor skills and problem-solving ability. Well also fostering a love the arts and encouraging self expression.
drawing
painting
coloring
paper mache
fine motor skills
color theory
using tools and materials safely
solving design challenges
encourages risk-taking
develop willingness to try new things
express emotions creatively
Music
develop their creativity, cognitive skills and emotional intelligence, while also promoting teamwork and self-expression
rhythm
pitch
dynamics
melody
harmony
singing
playing instruments
music notation
music history
ensemble playing
musicality
improve memory and spatial skills
confidence to perform in front of others
Extra-curricular Activities (ECA)
Learning doesn’t stop when the bell rings. Discover new talents and explore your interests through our diverse activity program. We have something for everyone.
NIVA uses an American curriculum based on the California common core standards.
What are the class sizes and student-to-teacher ratios? What is the average class size and how many students are there per class?
We typically have smaller class sizes and lower student-to-teacher ratios than Thai schools. Class sizes may range from 15 to 26 students, with student-to-teacher ratios ranging from 13:1 to 20:1.
What are the qualifications of the teachers and staff?
Teachers and staff at NIVA hold advanced degrees and have experience teaching in international or multicultural settings.
What facilities and resources are available for students, such as libraries, sports facilities, and technology?
Do we have a program to help students who cannot speak English?
Yes, we do. Our English Language Learner (ELL) program is designed to lay foundations for student who don't speak English with the goal of getting them ready to join our mainstream program. This program is available to all students, including those coming from Thai schools and Chinese-speaking families.
What extracurricular activities (ECAs) does the school offer?
NIVA offers a wide range of extracurricular activities including sports, arts, music, drama, and community service. Click on the following links to see a sample of ECAs we offer for elementary school and secondary school. Please note that the ECAs listed here are examples of what we typically offer. This list may change according to student interest.
What is the school's policy on student safety and security?
NIVA has policies and procedures in place to ensure student safety and security, including protocols for emergency situations, visitor management, and student supervision. You can read more about our Child Protection Policy here.
What are the admission requirements and criteria for the school?
Can I reserve a seat for my child two or more years in advance?
Yes, you can reserve for two or more years through a non-refundable deposit. Please give our admissions team a call at 02-948-4605 or 095-264-9445 for more details. Please note that the availabilty of this option will depend on the seats available for that class as well as the size of our waiting list.
This is the first time my child is going to school. How should I prepare my child for the start of the year?
Congratulations for another big step for your child! To prepare your child for the start of nursery or kindergarten, we recommend:
Creating a routine using the school's schedule as a model. This will help the child ease into waking up at the right time, getting hungry during designated snack and meal times, and so on.
Talking to your child about what to expected at school
Reading fun stories about going to school
Practicing separation if your child has never been away from you before. This will help ease their seperation anxiety on the first few days of school!
Apart from regular classes, does NIVA provide any special subjects?
Yes, swimming, and the choice between tae kwon do and ballet are built-in to our program.
How long does it take for students to be able to communicate in English?
There are no magic numbers here. This varies from child to child depending on various factors, such as age, personality, and parent participation with English practice at home. But don't worry, at NIVA, we continuously assess your child's progress and personalize our program to best suit for their needs and pace.
How does NIVA assess a child's development?
NIVA Kindergarten uses an assessment method called skills-based grading. For more details about its benefits over traditional grading methods as well as how it works, please feel free to contact our Kindergarten Department.
How should I prepare my child for the start of the year?
To help prepare your child for the start of the school year, it's a good idea to:
Establish a routine a few weeks before the first day of school. This can include gradually adjusting their sleep schedule, practicing self-care skills such as dressing and hygiene, and setting up a designated homework space.
Talk to your child about what to expect during the school day, including routines, procedures, and any changes due to COVID-19.
Attend any orientation or back-to-school events offered by the school to help your child feel more comfortable and excited for the upcoming year
What can I do to help my child succeed?
To help your child succeed in elementary school,
establish a consistent routine
encourage regular attendance
communicate with your child's teacher
provide a supportive home environment
encourage a love for learning
How often should my child read? What reading programs do you use at school?
It is recommended that elementary students read for at least 20 minutes per day outside of school. However, the frequency of reading can depend on your child's age and reading level. We have assisted apps, such as RazKids, for students to use to help them get in the habit of reading.
How can I get feedback about my child’s academics and behavior?
All teachers communicate through Google Chat for each of their classes. Parents are invited into these group chats and are able to send private messages to each teacher. This is a great way to get updates regarding your child's performance at school.
Do you have any after-school programs?
Yes, we have academic support for students who need help with their school subjects. We are also planning to include other skills-based after-school classes for students soon.
What AP courses does NIVA offer?
Please click here to see AP courses we offer. Please keep in mind that each class must have met the required minimum number of students registered it to take place.
How does the AP program benefit the students when they go to university?
The Advanced Placement (AP) program can benefit students when they go to university by providing them with college-level coursework in high school, which can help prepare them for the rigor and expectations of university-level courses.
Students who take AP courses may be eligible to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both, which can help reduce the cost of college tuition and allow students to graduate earlier.
Additionally, having AP courses on a student's transcript can demonstrate to universities that they are willing to challenge themselves academically and may improve their chances of being accepted into competitive programs.
Do students receive a diploma for AP?
There are two types of AP diploma:
AP Capstone Diploma: The requirements for receiving this diploma is as follows: AP Capstone 1 (Seminar), AP Capstone 2 (Research), four other AP exam scores (all scores have to be at least 3 out of 5).
AP International Diploma (APID): A globally recognized certificate awarded to students who display exceptional achievement across a variety of disciplines. Five AP exams with scores of 3 or above is required (different subjects have different requirements).
How does the school help students with scholarships abroad?
Our guidance counselor works tirelessly to help our grade 11 and 12 students apply for scholarships abroad. We help students prepare and send their applications, guide them with the student interview questions, and assist with all the documents needed for their choice universities.
What happens when a student changes from IB curriculum (or others) to an American Curriculum?
When a student transfers to NIVA, our guidance counselor and registrar will assess and determine subjects that can be matched and transfered to our system. We will then guide the student through the process of developing a plan to acquire the remaining necessary credits and classes for graduation.
