Edarabia had the opportunity to interview Mr. Andrew Parry, the Principal of Amnuay Silpa School. Mr. Parry is a passionate advocate for bilingual and intercultural learning. Under his leadership, Amnuay Silpa School has gained recognition for its innovative teaching methodologies, holistic approach to student development, and commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment. In this exclusive interview, Mr. Parry shared his insights on the school’s plans for the future, challenges in education, and the importance of student well-being.

1. What are your plans for 2025?

In 2025, we will continue strengthening our bilingual and intercultural learning approach, ensuring our students receive the best of both worlds—Thai and international education. Academically, we’re focused on enhancing our curriculum, expanding our extracurricular offerings, and deepening student leadership opportunities. Additionally, we are preparing to co-host our first FOBISIA Swimming event, which will be a major highlight for our school community.

2. How do you decide what to focus on academically each year, and which new ideas are you pursuing?

We take a research-driven, student-centered approach, reviewing student performance data, gathering input from teachers and parents, and considering global educational trends. Currently, we are refining our Thinking Curriculum as part of the re-accreditation process, ensuring students develop critical and creative thinking skills across all subjects. By integrating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into student projects, we provide both purpose and flexibility in content while keeping skill development at the forefront.

3. What challenges do you anticipate in the field of education over the next five years?

The rapid evolution of technology and AI will challenge (or positively, provide a spectrum of opportunities for) how we teach and assess learning. We must also continue addressing student well-being as natural academic pressures and social challenges increase. Another key issue will be ensuring that education remains inclusive and adaptable to diverse learning needs.

4. How do you keep students interested in learning, especially those who struggle or seem unmotivated?

Engagement is key. We use inquiry-based learning, hands-on projects, and real-world applications (SDGs) to make learning meaningful. We also ensure that students have a voice in their learning journey, offering choice and flexibility where possible. For those who struggle, we provide far reaching intervention programmes for SEN, EAL and Thai, through mentoring, tutoring, small-group instruction, and an established whole school pastoral care system, ranging from LSA, counsellors, DSLs and external agency support.

5. How does the school ensure all students feel welcome and have the same chances to succeed?

Inclusion is at the heart of our ethos. Our curriculum is designed to be both accessible and challenging, ensuring that every student is supported to reach their full potential. From the moment students join us, our entrance testing process helps identify any necessary support, allowing us to tailor interventions and resources to meet their needs. Our comprehensive onboarding program ensures a smooth transition, helping students and families feel welcomed and integrated into the school community. We have strong academic, social, and emotional support systems in place, creating an environment where all students can thrive. Beyond this, we actively cultivate a culture of respect, where every student feels valued, heard, and empowered. Student leadership opportunities further reinforce this by giving students a voice in shaping their learning experience and contributing to a school community that champions equality and success for all.

6. How proactive is the school in matters of student stress and bullying?

We are highly proactive in addressing student stress and bullying. Our Pastoral Leadership Team oversees initiatives that promote mental health, resilience, and positive relationships. To further enhance support, we have introduced the Komodo platform in secondary (with intentions to roll out to the whole school, Nursery to Year 13 in the upcoming academic year), which provides staff with valuable insights into the emotional wellness of our students. Our team of six Designated Safeguarding Leads (DSLs), two PSHE counselors, and two guidance counselors collaborate closely with students, offering tailored support to meet their individual needs. We also maintain regular communication with parents to ensure a unified, proactive approach. Our anti-bullying policies focus on prevention, early intervention, restorative practices, and education, ensuring that any instance of bullying is swiftly and effectively addressed. Above all, we foster a culture of open communication, making sure that students know where to turn for help and feel consistently supported.

7. How do you help students build the skills they need for life after graduation?

Beyond academics, we focus on leadership, critical thinking, adaptability, and global awareness, helping students build the skills they need for life after graduation. We have introduced a new programme, the Future Leaders Accelerator with Coachology, designed to foster essential communication and collaboration skills. We also embed values such as respect, responsibility, and resilience into everyday learning. Additionally, our active alumni body plays a key role in this process. Many alumni return to share their experiences and inspire current students, offering valuable insights into life after school. This ongoing connection with our alumni creates opportunities for continued community, providing students with mentorship and a network that extends well beyond graduation.

8. How involved are parents and the community in making the school better?

Parents and the wider community play a crucial role in shaping the school. Our PTSA (Parent, Teacher, and Student Association) is a key partner, and we encourage parents to be actively involved in discussions about school improvements – all feedback is welcomed. We regularly conduct surveys to gather feedback from parents and students, as well as staff, ensuring their voices are heard and considered in decision-making. Additionally, we maintain open communication channels, making it easy for parents to share their thoughts and stay informed. We also build strong partnerships with external organisations to bring in guest speakers, mentorship opportunities, and community service projects, creating a collaborative environment that enhances the overall school experience. Most of whom are recommendations made by our amazing parents.

9. How do you develop a school culture that attracts and keeps great teachers?

We focus on professional growth, a supportive work environment, and a shared vision to develop a school culture that attracts and retains great teachers. Our teachers are valued as experts, and we provide ongoing professional development through networks like FOBISIA, CIS, and COBIS. We foster a collaborative culture that encourages innovation and the sharing of best practices.

To ensure transparency and trust, we have introduced regular staff surveys and maintain an open-door policy so staff feel heard and supported. Our structured and transparent retention and recruitment process proactively informs staff about contract changes, salary scales, and the school’s direction, empowering them to make truly informed decisions. We provide clear adverts and comprehensive materials before and after interviews, ensuring that prospective staff fully understand our ethos, expectations, and opportunities.

Additionally, we partnered with T4 Education for the ‘Best School to Work’ survey, which provided invaluable staff feedback. This data has helped reshape key areas such as school leadership, collaboration, and contracts, ensuring that we continue to evolve in ways that meet the needs of our teachers and foster a thriving professional community.

10. Do teachers at your school have growth opportunities for leadership roles?

Yes, absolutely. We actively encourage career progression through leadership pathways, mentorship programmes, and opportunities to take on additional responsibilities. Teachers can lead initiatives, develop curriculum innovations, or step into roles such as Year Leaders, Heads of Department, or coordinators of key school programmes.

I can personally attest to the opportunities for growth at our school, having been part of this journey for 14 years. I started as a Year 2 teacher, moved across different year groups, took on leadership roles, became Deputy Head of two phases, then Head of two phases, and am now the Principal of the whole school. This experience reflects our commitment to recognising talent and providing a clear pathway for career progression.

To further support professional development, we offer CPD sponsorships, including part-funding for NPQs (National Professional Qualifications) and other leadership training. Our commitment to continuous learning ensures that staff have access to high-quality training and clear pathways to leadership roles within the school. By fostering a culture of growth and professional advancement, we empower our teachers to develop their careers while making a meaningful impact on our students.

11. Which after-school activity would you say has the biggest positive impact on a student’s future?

While it depends on the student’s interests and goals, leadership and service-oriented activities have the most long-term impact. Programmes like Model United Nations, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and community service projects teach critical life skills – teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience – that benefit students beyond school.

12. As a Principal, what is your definition of success?

Success is not just about academic results; it’s about shaping a community where both students and staff thrive. True success is when our students and teachers become respectful and mindful individuals – active in their learning, open to new ideas, and willing to learn from their mistakes.

For students, this means leaving school with a strong sense of purpose, the confidence to pursue their passions, and the ability to adapt to an ever-changing world while treating others with respect and kindness. For staff, success is about continuous professional growth, collaboration, and making a meaningful impact on students’ lives. If we foster an environment where everyone – students and staff alike – feels valued, empowered, and inspired to grow, then we have truly succeeded.

13. If you had the opportunity to inspire the world in one sentence, what would that sentence be?

“Education equips our learners with a set of keys – skills they can use to unlock the doors to their chosen future.”