Each year at Panyaden School, Wai Kru Day marks one of the most meaningful moments in the school calendar. Organised by students and led by class representatives and the student council, the ceremony offers a formal and heartfelt opportunity for students to express gratitude and respect for their teachers at the start of the academic year.
This year’s ceremony took place in Panyaden’s bamboo-vaulted assembly hall, a fitting setting for an event rooted in mindfulness, tradition, and respect. Students were already seated, waiting quietly as teachers arrived. Each teacher was welcomed with a flower garland before taking their place on the stage, while traditional Thai music performed by students created a calm and reflective atmosphere. The ceremony began with Buddhist chanting and bowing to the Triple Gem, grounding the event in the school’s spiritual and cultural foundations.
Wai Kru, which translates directly to “paying respect to teachers,” reflects deeply rooted Thai values. In Thai culture, teachers are seen not only as educators, but as moral guides. As Panyaden’s spiritual leader, Phra Ajahn Jayasaro, explains:
“The idea of the teacher in Buddhism is of the ‘good friend’ or kalayanamitr, someone who has the particular qualities that nourish the student and create the most conducive environment for learning to take place.”
This sense of warmth, respect, and mutual appreciation was clearly visible as students from middle to secondary school approached the stage one by one. Kneeling before their teachers, they offered small bouquets of flowers, candles, and incense, each item rich in symbolism. Flowers such as dok kem represent sharp intelligence, ya praek symbolises perseverance, and popped rice reminds students of the importance of discipline.
After presenting their offerings, students were given time to speak personally with their teachers. For many, these moments of conversation were just as meaningful as the ceremony itself. Middle School English and Social Studies Teacher Kru Joe reflected on this aspect of the day:
“It was nice to just sort of chat, just sort of natural. I had several different students come up, and I knew them all pretty well.”
He also described the experience as deeply affirming:
“It’s an honour to be your teacher. I feel like you guys are all wonderful kids and critical thinkers, and I’m really proud to work here.”
Kru Ying, Head of the Thai Department and organiser of the event, highlighted how important Wai Kru Day is from a teacher’s perspective:
“This event gives an opportunity for students to formally thank the teachers. It shows that in Thai culture, teachers are very respected, and how the students highly value them.”
She also noted the cooperative spirit of the students during rehearsals and the ceremony itself, adding that “the atmosphere was very delightful.”
A particularly moving moment came when Mathematics Teacher Kru Greg delivered a speech on behalf of the teachers, offering words of gratitude back to the students and emphasising the shared journey of learning at Panyaden.
The ceremony ended on a joyful note with a lively advisory group competition, where students had to guess teachers based on emoji clues projected on the screen. Laughter filled the hall before students and teachers returned to their regular lessons for the rest of the day.
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By April & Bill
The PYD Post 