Chiang Mai, Thailand – A groundbreaking online program, IELTS LIVE ONLINE, has officially launched to help students in Thailand prepare for the IELTS Academic and General Training exams. Led by Dr. Ryan James Whitehouse, known as Kru Jaem, at Thinkin Cafe, this course aims to provide high-quality instruction at an affordable price, making it accessible to learners from various backgrounds. Previously, students studied only online but a recent development has allowed for onsite learning in a hybrid mode to begin taking place. The current promotion is 3,990 Thai Baht from the normal school fees of 29,990 Thai Baht and students study up-to 12 months with unlimited learning and feedback.
Get to Know Kru Jaem
Dr. Ryan James Whitehouse was born in Auckland in 1987 and grew up in the Te Atatu South area, where he attended Edmonton Primary School. His educational journey continued at Rangeview Intermediate School, where he participated in an enriching two-week student exchange program to Singapore and Japan with classmates. “It was an unforgettable experience,” he recalls, emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding for young learners. “When I was at Edmonton, I made friends with Japanese international students who travelled from Osaka. They were really kind and gave me lots of Japanese stationary, and that I think also impressed upon me,” he says.
During his time at Rutherford High School from 2000, Kru Jaem formed friendships with many international students, especially from Brazil, China, and Taiwan. “My cultural sensitivity made my friends feel welcome,” he explains, highlighting how empathy fosters connections in education. During his high school years, he studied Japanese as an optional subject “which was fun and interesting”, he remarks. “Our teacher was a New Zealander, but she lived in Japan for many years, which made me feel like I could do the same,” Kru. Jaem said.
Aiming for Global Reach
The IELTS LIVE ONLINE course is currently available in Australia, New Zealand, and Thailand, with plans to expand to Japan and South Korea soon. “We are excited to empower Thai learners to enhance their leadership skills and opportunities,” he says.
Since starting his teaching career in 2008, Kru Jaem has developed a strong reputation for his engaging teaching methods. He has received training in IELTS instruction from IDP Australia and holds a TEFL certification from the London Teacher’s Training College. His multicultural background and ability to speak Thai enable him to connect deeply with students from diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Having lived in Chiang Mai, Thailand, for the past 20 years, he pursued a Master’s in Educational Administration at Assumption University, where he recognized the need for effective English language support. The purpose of the program is to introduce learners to IELTS affordably so that they can succeed at university.
Course Highlights
The IELTS LIVE ONLINE program covers all four essential skills required for the IELTS exam: Writing, Speaking, Reading, and Listening. It features live online sessions as well as recorded materials for flexible learning. A placement test ensures that students are grouped according to their proficiency levels. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see students achieve their aspirations,” he adds.
The Story Behind Thinkin Cafe
Dr. Ryan James Whitehouse (Kru Jaem) founded Thinkin Cafe in Khon Kaen, Thailand, in response to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, initially focusing on English language classes. Reflecting on that time, he says, “It was a tough period for many, but we persevered, and it has truly paid off.”
For those in Thailand ready to embark on an exciting journey to IELTS success, IELTS LIVE ONLINE offers a unique and engaging learning experience!
Contact: Dr. Ryan James Whitehouse (Kru. Jaem)
Message: m.me/thinkincafeielts
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/thinkincafe-ielts
Thai Website: https://www.nzche.ac.nz/thinkincafekk