Central Pattana plc, Thailand's no.1 real estate developer of Central shopping centers, residential, office buildings and hotels nationwide under the business model of 'The Ecosystem for All', is pioneering a new approach to Thai education with the launch of First Class Preschool, a bilingual early childhood development center designed for children aged 1-6 years, emphasizing EF skills, positive discipline, and holistic development across physical, social, emotional, and bilingual communication skills-essential foundations for happiness and success in the future. The first branch of First Class Preschool, which is located at Central Westville, helps to strengthen Central Pattana's ecosystem to truly become a Centre of Life, with a space that meets every need and helps elevate every aspect of life, Shop-Work-Stay-Play-Live, creating true value for everyone in the community.
The opening event was honored by Mr. Pichai Chirathivat, Executive Director of Central Group; Ms. Wallaya Chirathivat, President and Chief Executive Officer of Central Pattana plc; Dr. Kobsak Pootrakool, an expert for national development, macroeconomic policy, finance, and capital markets and former Minister of the Office of the Prime Minister; and Asst. Prof. Panadda Thanasetkorn, Ph.D, School Advisor, who participated at the opening event.
Ms.Nantiya Witwutisak, Head of Corporate Strategy, Innovation and Digital Technology, shared with us the vision behind First Class Preschool: "As we strive to create a Centre of Life, our mission extends beyond physical spaces. We aim to enhance every aspect of life by delivering true value to communities. Recognizing that education is the key foundation for sustainable social and human development, we established First Class Preschool to provide Thai children with a strong foundation for holistic growth. Our goal is to support modern parents seeking high-quality, accessible, and value-for-money education in a safe and joyful environment that prepares children for the future. Since our soft launch in September 2024, the preschool has received outstanding feedback. We focus on nurturing decision-making, collaboration, and social skills while partnering with esteemed institutions such as St Andrews Dusit International School, ICSN International School, and Daroonpat School. This year, we plan to open three additional branches and expand nationwide to further elevate Thailand's educational landscape."
Dr.Kobsak Pootrakool, an economist and expert in national development and macroeconomic policy and former Minister of the Office of the Prime Minister said: "The developmental stage from ages 1 to 6 is critical as the frontal lobe, which governs intelligence and emotional intelligence (EQ), rapidly matures. Quality childhood development centers should offer engaging activities that stimulate focus, learning, and self-expression while instilling discipline and social awareness. I commend Central Pattana for pioneering First Class Preschool, which integrates bilingual education, an internationally recognized curriculum, and a strong focus on hygiene and safe environment. Establishing a solid early foundation will ensure children thrive academically and contribute meaningfully to Thailand's future."
First Class Preschool is a groundbreaking early childhood development center that blends modern play-based learning with expert-backed curriculum design. Under the guidance of Asst. Prof. Panadda Thanasetkorn, Ph.D, a faculty member at the National Institute for Child and Family Development, Mahidol University, the school integrates insights from the leading specialist in child psychology, brain, mind, relationships in children, adolescence and family. The curriculum incorporates bilingual education led by native-speaking teachers, prioritizing EF skills to develop cognitive flexibility, emotional regulation, and goal-setting abilities. A key component of First Class Preschool is the implementation of the EYFS (Early Years Foundation Stage) curriculum from the UK, which fosters balanced development through interactive learning and meaningful child-teacher-parent engagement. This approach ensures that children build a strong educational foundation while cultivating a lifelong love for learning.
Mr.Chairat Sanmahachaipar, a parent of one of the First Class Preschool students, shared his opinion on how he selected the school for his child: "Selecting the right school is not an easy decision. A preschool must provide an environment that nurtures children at each developmental stage while ensuring safety, joy, and effective learning. First Class Preschool excels in all these areas?it prioritizes EF development, fosters emotional resilience, and equips children with skills to adapt to a rapidly changing world. More importantly, their teachers are truly caring and understand young children in all of their behaviors and emotions. It also supports parents in understanding and growing alongside their children."
Ms.Pakrada Suvanasuthi, another parent, highlighted the impact of First Class Preschool's approach: "We've seen remarkable growth in our child's social skills, confidence, and communication. The school emphasizes self-reliance, responsibility, and positive parenting, fostering a nurturing atmosphere where children can be themselves. From safety measures and structured learning to a caring team and emphasis on nutrition and hygiene, First Class Preschool truly provides a comprehensive foundation for young learners."
First Class Preschool is a bilingual early childhood development center focusing on fundamental skills development for children 1-6 years of age, starting from building a sense of self, Executive Functions (EF), positive discipline and physical, social and emotional development, and bilingual communication. Under the leadership of Mr. Wisarut Winyu-ekasit, Director of First Class Preschool, the school follows the philosophy: 'Be Happy in Your Way'-empowering children to grow confidently, express themselves, and develop lifelong learning habits in a warm and stimulating environment.