Basic education in Thailand is divided into 6 years of primary
schooling, (Prathom 1 to 6) followed by 3 years of lower secondary
(Mattayom 1 to 3) and 3 years of upper secondary schooling
(Mattayom 4 to 6). In 2003, compulsory education was extended
to 9 years, with all students expected to complete Mattayom 6.
Eight core subjects form the National Curriculum: Thai language,
mathematics, science, social studies, religion and culture, health
and physical education, arts, careers and technology, and
foreign languages. Flexibility is built into the curriculum in order
to integrate local wisdom and culture, so that it is consistent
with set learning standards in each of the core subject groups.
The promotion of thinking skills, self-learning strategies and
moral development is at the heart of teaching and learning in
the Thai National Curriculum.