The School for Life in Chiang Mai

The School for Life Chiang Mai was established in 2003 and is located in the mountains of the Doi Saket, which, by car, is about 45 minutes from Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. The School for Life was founded by Khun Thaneen "Joy" Worrawittayakun and Prof. Dr. Juergen Zimmer in 2003. It provides a home and education for children in difficult circumstances. 140 such children have found a new home here by May 2006 and many more would like to come from around Thailand.

The School for Life creates jobs for local people, providing employment in farming, civil works or child care activities. Following the community development approach, adults are included in project work which target local key issues such as recycling or organic farming. The visit of the Thai Crown Princess, HRH Sirindhorn in 2005, has intensified the growing positive relationship with the Thai Ministry of Education and the provincial Government.

UNESCO has assessed the concept of the School for Life to be a "…much needed world-class innovative effort in the field of education" and a "new standard of educational excellence for the world community of the 21st century".

In order to secure the wellbeing of the children we depend on the support of companies and individuals. We seek partners that not only help us cover the current monthly expenses but also join us in securing the open costs over a longer period of time. Only if we can achieve a stable support from sponsors can we open our doors for more children. Currently there are another 700 children that would like to join our school, not only to receive an education but to find a home as well.