Reflecting on my previous visit to Lovell International School, I was eager to return and witness the continued evolution of this remarkable institution. Nestled in the heart of Naklua, Lovell International School stands as a beacon of innovative education, guided by a vision that is as unique as its surroundings. At the heart of this institution is Khun Beau, the founder and driving force behind its philosophy.Her journey into education began during the challenges of COVID-19, a time when she became deeply concerned about the isolation many families experienced and the apparent lack of compassion that emerged from living in bubbles. This concern was not just a fleeting thought; it was a reflection of her deep care for the next generation and their impact on the world.

As a mother seeking the best educational environment for her young daughter, Khun Beau explored numerous options but struggled to find a school that resonated with her values. Drawing from her family’s background in development – specifically, owning the Cape Dara Resort – she recognised the importance of creating a nurturing space for children to thrive. After considering various educational philosophies, including Montessori, she ultimately fell in love with the Reggio Emilia approach, which emphasises exploration, creativity and child-centred learning. Khun Beau’s commitment extends beyond academic excellence; she aims to foster personal growth, confidence and self-esteem in every child. Central to her philosophy is the idea of collaboration with parents, ensuring they feel integrally involved in their children’s education. Lovell International School actively encourages parental participation, creating a strong community bond that enriches the educational experience for students.

The classrooms are filled with light, colours and warmth of natural materials, creating inviting spaces designed to stimulate creativity and collaboration. Each corner of the school reflects a commitment to creating a nurturing atmosphere where children feel safe to express themselves and explore new ideas. A particularly impressive aspect of Lovell International School is its architectural design, which serves as a ‘third teacher’. Khun Beau was impressed by the architects who designed the school, known for their work on prominent institutions like Bangkok Prep. The building and its natural surroundings play a crucial role in enhancing the learning experience, helping students develop essential executive functions – skills that are vital for success both in and out of the classroom.

Adding to this vision is the new Head of School, Mr. Michael Waters, an experienced educational leader from the UK. Michael has worked extensively in various international settings, most recently serving as Head of Primary at a large school in Vietnam. He turned down offers to join the leadership teams of larger schools, wishing to avoid the ‘big corporate’ environment and focus on where he knew he could make a real difference and where his own educational philosophy aligned with that of the school. Khun Beau was heavily involved in Michael’s recruitment, demonstrating her commitment to finding the right person for the job. She even flew out to Vietnam to meet him before offering the position. This level of personal investment underscores her dedication to building a strong team that shares her vision for the school.

Michael’s educational philosophy mirrors the principles of the Reggio Emilia approach, focusing on fostering curiosity, creativity and critical thinking among students. He understands the importance of a supportive and inclusive environment, where every child feels valued and empowered to take risks in their learning. Michael also places a strong emphasis on building relationships with parents and the community. He believes that education is a partnership and that involving families in the learning process enriches the experience for everyone involved. “We want parents to feel like they are part of our school community”, he remarked.Certainly, Lovell International School is a testament to the vision of Khun Beau and the fresh perspectives brought by Michael Waters. Together, they create a nurturing, child-centred environment where students can thrive, explore and become the best versions of themselves.A priority for Michael, and Lovell in general, is ensuring the students transition from the Early Years to primary seamlessly where they prepare them to meet the highest academic standards and excel at a global level.

As the school continues to grow, it remains dedicated to fostering responsible, empathetic citizens ready to make a positive impact on the world.

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By James Kemp Deputy Head of Mooltripakdee International School