Highgate International School Thailand has announced the appointment of Ben Keeling as its Founding Head of School, following the unveiling of plans to open in August 2026.
Ben Keeling will join Highgate International School Thailand from Shrewsbury International School Hong Kong following an eight-year tenure. He brings almost 20 years of school leadership experience and a reputation for the development of high standards and the cultivation of respectful and productive relationships. His contributions to the educational community in Hong Kong have earned him widespread recognition and respect as a leader of exceptional calibre.
“I am enormously excited about the prospect of leading the foundation of Highgate International School Thailand,” said Ben. “The strength of our host school and the commitment of our local team to the provision of transformative learning experiences, provide an excellent framework for success. I look forward to meeting with our founding families and to working in partnership to deliver a uniquely ambitious, enriching and affirming programme of study and a wide-reaching legacy for education in the Chonburi province and surrounding area.”
During his tenure at Shrewsbury, Ben played a pivotal role in the development of an award-winning, purpose-built campus, and was instrumental in securing memberships with prestigious organisations such as the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Federation of British International Schools in Asia (FOBISIA). His approach to leadership has been described as ‘outstanding,’ ‘energising’ and ‘compelling.’
The Head of Highgate UK, Adam Pettitt, said: “It is a pleasure to welcome Ben and entrust to him the founding of Highgate’s first international school. His impressive, transformational leadership record speaks for itself, and Highgate School International Thailand can look forward to dynamic, responsive and collaborative leadership in partnership with Highgate UK. I am very excited about working with Ben and can’t wait to get started!”
Highgate International School, Thailand will be co-educational, with plans to accommodate up to 1,400 day and boarding pupils aged 2-18 years. Mirroring Highgate’s three-school format, the school will open initially as a Pre-Prep and Junior School, with the Senior School opening the following year. Pupils will follow the English National Curriculum, culminating in IGCSE and A levels.
The opening of Highgate International School Thailand by the Siam Motors Group marks a significant milestone in the educational landscape of Chonburi. Drawing upon Highgate’s nearly 460years of educational expertise and a commitment to pastoral care and personal development, this partnership represents an exciting opportunity for families seeking world-class international education.
For further details about Highgate International School Thailand, please visit www.highgateschoolthailand.com.
