A Vision for Healthier Learning Environments

Since 2018, St. Andrews International School Bangkok has taken proactive steps to protect students and staff from the harmful effects of air pollution. By installing IQAir AirVisual air quality monitors, integrating air purifiers, and implementing clear air quality action plans, St. Andrews has created a healthier learning environment while setting an example for other schools in Thailand.

From Concern to Action: Why Air Quality Monitoring Matters

Bangkok’s air pollution is a well-known issue, particularly during the dry season when PM2.5 levels rise to hazardous levels. Before 2018, St. Andrews relied on external air quality data from various sources, but inconsistencies often led to confusion. Parents checking different monitoring stations would sometimes see conflicting air quality readings, creating concern and debate.

Recognizing the need for a more reliable and transparent system, the school decided to install its own monitors. IQAir’s AirVisual devices became their solution, providing real-time, on-campus air quality data that both school staff and parents could trust. “We wanted our students, staff, and parents to see the same data and trust it,” explains Roo Stenning, the school’s Head of High School.

Now, with two dedicated outdoor air quality monitors providing live readings, the school community can make informed decisions about outdoor activities.

The initiative has expanded beyond campus as well—portable monitors are even sent on school field trips, allowing students and staff to track air quality no matter where they are in Thailand. "Parents no longer have to guess or compare conflicting sources. They can check our data and know exactly what actions we are taking," said Stenning.

Turning Data into Action: A Structured Approach

Reliable air quality data is only useful if it leads to meaningful action, and St. Andrews has developed a clear, structured response to fluctuating air conditions. "We aim to be proactive, not reactive. Our students spend most of their day at school, so we want to ensure they are breathing the cleanest air possible," Stenning said.

The school follows the U.S. Air Quality Index (US AQI) guidelines, ensuring that all decisions are based on international best practices. When air quality remains in the healthy range, daily routines continue as usual. However, once the AQI surpasses 100, outdoor activities are moderated, and younger students, who are more sensitive to pollution, are advised to limit their exposure. At an AQI of 200, all outdoor activities are suspended to ensure the health and safety of students and staff.

Recent updates to US AQI standards have made pollution thresholds more stringent, meaning Bangkok now experiences fewer ‘green days’ than in past years. The school actively communicates these changes to parents to ensure a clear understanding of what the data reflects.

To ensure quick, informed decision-making, air quality levels are checked five times a day at key moments: before school, during morning break, and at lunch periods. If air pollution levels reach concerning thresholds, a color-coded flag system is updated on campus, signaling whether students should remain indoors. This proactive approach ensures that every member of the school community—students, teachers, and parents—can respond to changing air quality in real time.

Beyond the Classroom: Educating and Engaging the Community

Air quality monitoring at St. Andrews is not just about data—it’s about education, empowerment, and fostering environmental responsibility. The school actively involves students in air quality discussions, encouraging them to take an interest in environmental science and sustainable living.

Students and parents can access real-time air quality data via the school’s web portal. Younger students have taken their awareness a step further by leading sustainability initiatives, such as anti-idling campaigns in the school’s parking lot. These student-led efforts encourage parents and drivers to turn off their car engines while waiting, reducing unnecessary emissions near the school.

Classroom discussions also integrate air quality education, helping students understand the health impacts of pollution and the science behind air monitoring. By embedding these conversations into the curriculum, the school ensures that students are not just passive recipients of clean air policies but active participants in creating a healthier campus. "Our hope is that by the time our students reach high school, they don’t just understand air quality—they actively engage in solutions," Stenning said.

Innovating for the Future: Next Steps in Clean Air Commitment

While St. Andrews has made significant progress in air quality management, the school is always looking ahead. One of its key focus areas is expanding indoor air quality monitoring. Currently, air purifiers are installed in over 100 classrooms, complemented by Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) systems that improve airflow while maintaining energy efficiency. The school is now exploring ways to aggregate data from these devices to provide a comprehensive picture of indoor air conditions.

Another step forward is integrating real-time air quality displays on campus. While the school already uses a flag system to communicate air quality updates, adding live AQI readings on digital screens would enhance visibility and accessibility for students and staff.

The takeaway

St. Andrews International School Bangkok demonstrates how schools can take charge of air quality to protect their students and staff. Through real-time monitoring, clear action plans, and proactive community engagement, the school has set a benchmark for clean air in education.

Their leadership in air quality monitoring aligns with global initiatives like IQAir’s Schools4Earth program, which helps schools worldwide gain access to real-time air quality data. By joining a growing network of schools contributing to air monitoring, St. Andrews is not just improving air quality on campus—it’s helping shape a global movement for cleaner air.