There are a number of possibilities. Somphob & Associates, will be able to advise you on the best solution for your needs:

1. Leasehold: Thai law allows a maximum lease period of 30 years, with the possibility to extend for a further 30+30 years. At the end of each term, both parties must register the renewal with the Land Department and pay government fees, including stamp duty. This gives the lessee "ownership" of the land. The downside is that the Lessor may not wish to renew, or the law may change to your detriment in the future. Any capital you invest into leased property is therefore liable to be lost. In addition, leased land is not easy to trade.
2. Nominee: You can nominate a Thai to own the property for you. Definitely not recommended.
3. Nominee with a mortgage: You can lend the price of the property to a Thai under a legally executed mortgage or loan agreement. There is a small fee payable at the Land Office to register it. The advantage to this is that the nominee cannot sell the property until the mortgage or loan has been repaid in full. Your lawyers should also set up a Last Will & Testament when they set up this type of transaction so that if the foreigner dies first the mortgage or loan is discharged in full and the Thai can inherit the property. If the Thai nominee dies first the foreigner can inherit the land, but must sell it to a Thai within 12 months. Foreigners buying property in Thailand should always write a new will to avoid any future problems for the Executors and Beneficiaries.
4. Freehold: Foreigners can buy and own condominiums Freehold, giving you full ownership rights to buy, sell, trade and bequeath your condominium. However, the law states that foreigners may only own up to 49% of any condominium building. So make sure your lawyer checks this before buying a property. The seller must also provide a document from the Juristic management office stating that the condominium is free from all debts.
5. Company Ownership: A highly recommended way to buy and own property is by setting up a company when buying a house, land, or other property that is not a condominium. An experienced real estate lawyer can help you do this and ensure that you control the property without interference from your nominee Thai partners.

Thailand boasts some of the best international schools in the region in all the most highly populated centers like Bangkok, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. Fees are high, but so are their teaching standards. In addition, there are some excellent private Thai schools. Your agent will tell you which schools are located in the area you would like to live.