Brighton College Vietnam has become the first school in Việt Nam to be included among the “Top Recommended Private Schools Globally” in the Spear’s Schools Index 2026.
The recognition places Brighton College Vietnam among private schools assessed against internationally recognised standards. It also highlights the growing profile of Việt Nam’s international education sector.
For parents, the recognition offers another reference point when considering the quality and breadth of an international school. For educators and school leaders, it demonstrates how a holistic model can contribute to a school’s international standing.
Published annually by Spear’s with educational consultancy Thuso Group, the index draws on an international panel of education experts.
It assesses schools across several areas, including academic outcomes, teaching quality, pastoral care, co-curricular opportunities and the learning environment.
The assessment also considers the long-term values pupils develop during their education. Therefore, strong academic results alone do not guarantee inclusion.
What the Spear’s Recognition Means for Brighton College Vietnam
The Top Recommended category recognises schools considered to be of exceptionally high calibre within the international private education sector.
Brighton College Vietnam’s inclusion reflects its broad approach to education. This combines academic ambition with pastoral support and opportunities beyond the classroom.
For families, this wider approach can be important when evaluating an international school. Academic achievement remains a key consideration, but pupils also need opportunities to develop confidence, communication skills and personal interests.
Brighton College Vietnam offers education for pupils aged 3 to 18. The school draws on the nearly 200-year educational heritage of Brighton College UK.
Its academic pathway moves from the British National Curriculum to IGCSEs and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
Meanwhile, teaching is designed to support pupils at different stages of their development. Lessons aim to challenge pupils while helping them build knowledge, confidence and independent thinking.
Brighton College Vietnam Combines Academics With Wider Development
Academic outcomes form one part of the school’s educational approach. Pupils are also encouraged to think critically, communicate clearly and take pride in their work.
Additionally, the school provides a broad co-curricular programme. Pupils can participate in sport, music, drama, service activities and academic societies.
These opportunities allow pupils to explore interests beyond their regular lessons. They can also help pupils build confidence and develop relationships with their peers.
Brighton College Vietnam places three core values at the centre of school life: curiosity, confidence and kindness.
Curiosity encourages pupils to ask questions and develop a genuine interest in learning. Meanwhile, confidence supports them as they try new activities and develop their individual strengths.
Kindness also plays an important role in the school’s pastoral approach. The College aims to create an environment where pupils feel known, valued and respected.
A Diverse International School Community
Brighton College Vietnam serves a diverse community, with pupils representing more than 20 nationalities.
This international setting gives pupils opportunities to encounter different perspectives. As a result, they can develop a broader understanding of cultures and their place in the wider world.
The school also maintains a close partnership with Brighton College UK. This connection supports consistency across the wider Brighton College family while allowing the Vietnam campus to serve its local community.
For parents, the combination of international exposure, academic pathways and pastoral support provides a broader picture of the school’s offering.
For educators and school leaders, the recognition also highlights the importance of looking beyond examination results when assessing school quality.
What the Recognition Means for International Education in Việt Nam
Brighton College Vietnam’s inclusion in the Spear’s Schools Index 2026 is significant for the country’s international education sector.
It marks the first time a school in Việt Nam has appeared in the index’s “Top Recommended Private Schools Globally” category.
Furthermore, the recognition places greater attention on the standards being achieved by international schools in the country.
For families considering international education, such recognition can provide useful context. However, parents should also consider a school’s curriculum, university pathways, pastoral provision, co-curricular opportunities, fees and suitability for their child’s needs.
Ultimately, Brighton College Vietnam’s recognition demonstrates how schools can build international reputations through a combination of academic provision, pupil wellbeing, co-curricular experiences and a strong school community.
