Bangkok Post – Magdalen College School Oxford Expands to Bangkok

The 550-year-old UK institution is set to open its first international campus in Bangkok, combining academic heritage with future-focused learning.

Magdalen College School Oxford (MCS Oxford), one of the United Kingdom’s most distinguished schools with more than 550 years of academic excellence, is preparing to open its first international campus in the world — in Bangkok — in partnership with Hong Kong-based CIEO, a leading education group with over 25 years of experience across Asia.

On 15 October 2025, the school marked a major milestone with its Stone Laying and Launch Ceremony, officially commencing the development of the Bangkok campus. The event brought together representatives from Magdalen College School Oxford, CIEO Group, and key partners — including leaders in education across Asia, as well as representatives from the British Embassy, British Chamber of Commerce, Spanish Chamber of Commerce, and the Scottish Society. The ceremony also welcomed major Thai, English, and Chinese media outlets, making it a truly international launch for MCS Oxford’s first global expansion.

MCS Oxford Bangkok Founding Team at the Stone Laying Ceremony

Thailand continues to record strong growth in international schools, particularly in Bangkok and the Eastern Economic Corridor. This momentum reflects rising industrial investment and a growing expatriate population seeking reputable, globally recognised education options.

MCS Oxford (UK) is renowned for outstanding A-Level and GCSE results, and its exceptional success in securing offers for students to leading universities — including over 400 cumulative admissions to Oxford and Cambridge since 2014. Its alumni include scholars, Olympians, military leaders, acclaimed musicians, a Hollywood film director, a Hollywood actor, two Nobel laureates, and even a saint.

MCS Oxford Pupils

“It is incredibly exciting to see Magdalen’s name take a meaningful step onto the global stage,” said Helen Pike, Master of Magdalen College School Oxford. “We are bringing not only our academic standards but also the transformative power of education to students in Thailand. With a strong foundation, you can grow boldly — and we want our students to enjoy learning while being fully prepared for their future.”

Ms Helen Pike in conversation with Bangkok Post journalists.

International pedigree behind the school

Unlike many other international schools in Thailand, the founders of MCS Oxford International School, Bangkok are international education institutions with a long-standing partnership. Dr. Winnie Chen, Chairwoman of the Hong Kong–based CIEO Group highlighted Thailand’s strong education infrastructure and its welcoming culture as key factors in choosing the country as a strategic location for global expansion.

“Thailand’s open-minded and gracious culture makes it an exceptional place for a global educational initiative,” she noted, drawing on insights from CIEO’s leadership of Lanna International School in Chiang Mai.

Ms Pike added that the UK executive team is working closely with experienced Thai educators — including leaders from established schools in Bangkok — to develop a curriculum that balances British academic rigour, future-ready skills and Thai cultural understanding.

MCS Oxford International, Bangkok will be a mission-driven school placing students at the centre of every decision, fostering a culture of curiosity, character and lifelong learning.

Ms Helen Pike, Master of Magdalen College School Oxford, and Dr Winnie Chen, Chairwoman of Hong Kong–based CIEO, pictured with Bangkok Post journalists.

MCS Oxford Bangkok Launch Ceremony on 15 October 2025

Opening in 2028

The new school expects to welcome its first cohort in 2028, offering a premium new option for families seeking a world-class education in Thailand — rooted in tradition, designed for the future.

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