Education

Because of its large school-age population, Bangkok's schools are grossly overcrowded. With too few teachers and schools, education in the city varies greatly, with the standard of education often depending on a student's social class. Children of upper-class parents usually attend private schools, many of which focus on English-language instruction. Poorer students often attend schools associated with Buddhist temples. Education is compulsory for children from the ages of seven to 14. However, in Thailand a Western education is highly prized, and students who can afford to study abroad usually do. The overall literacy rate of the country approaches 95 percent.