The global education industry is facing a dramatic realignment. According to The PIE News, nearly 80% of UK universities failed to meet their international student recruitment targets in 2024, signalling growing uncertainty in traditional English-speaking destinations. With stricter visa requirements, increased tuition fees, and geopolitical tensions, families and agents are actively looking for reliable, affordable, and culturally rich alternatives.
In an article published on The PIE News in April 2024, recruitment expert Simon Emmett noted, “There is a real challenge in the UK to hit international student targets… The market is fragmenting as students look to alternative destinations.”
Thailand, long admired for its tourism and hospitality, is now entering the spotlight as a viable junior study abroad destination. With visa-free entry for many nationalities, including Chinese passport holders, and significantly lower costs than Western destinations, it is becoming increasingly attractive to families seeking English immersion with value.
Why Dragon Study Tours Stands Out
Located in Hua Hin, Dragon Study Tours is one of Thailand’s leading junior study travel providers. The programme is built specifically for closed groups of students aged 7 to 17 and blends international-quality English instruction with cultural adventure.
Key highlights include:
- 30 hours of English tuition (General English, GESE, or Communication Skills)
- Cultural excursions to heritage sites, markets, and local attractions
- En-suite accommodation with 24/7 supervision at The Palm residence
- Optional Trinity College London or IELTS exams on-site
- Daily updates through our dedicated mobile app
All classrooms and rooms are under the same roof, ensuring a safe and cohesive experience.
As The PIE News reports, education agencies are actively seeking “fresh, dependable markets that offer both experience and safety.” Thailand checks every box. With its combination of warm climate, structured English study, and experiential learning, it appeals strongly to today’s international parents.
A New Opportunity for Education Agents
For education consultants responding to this global shift, partnering with Thailand-based providers offers a powerful differentiator. Dragon Study Tours supports agencies with year-round availability, free leader places, and fully accredited academic options. Bilingual staff and seamless logistics make it ideal for short-term junior language programmes.
In the same PIE article, recruitment professionals stressed the importance of “diversifying destination portfolios” and moving beyond reliance on Western markets. Thailand’s rise is not just a trend—it’s a response to the industry’s real needs.
