Chaofah City
Chaofah City
Weekly Update #21, 31 January 2025
Upcoming Events
Community Beach Clean this Sunday @ Saphin Hin
We look forward to seeing you at our next beach clean event held at Saphan Hin, this Sunday 2nd February (meet 9:30 am @ Saphan Hin/San Chao Kiew Tien Keng Temple). Bring with you water, suncream, a hat and reusable gloves if you want to wear them. We will provide collection bags and of course House Points for every participant.
So come join us for a fun and rewarding community event where we give back to our local community.
Calling All Academy Players – 24 Hours to Make a Difference
It’s that time again when we rally all of our Academy Players, Coaches, and Parents together in order to raise much-needed funds for our chosen charities in the ‘24 Hours to make a Difference’ event. All academy students are expected to take part in this event, which will take place from 20.00 on Friday, 28th February to 20.00 on Saturday, 1st March 2025.
Our AquaPanthers Swim Academy students will lead off the event, swimming through the night from 20:00 on Friday to 08:00 on Saturday morning. At 08:00, our Panthers Football Academy players will take over, with matches taking place throughout Saturday until 20:00. Panthers Basketball Academy players will then join in the fun from 14:00 until 20:00 on both courts. For the final 3 hours (17:00 – 20:00), our Academy players will be joined by both parent and staff teams for some fun games to see out the event.
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Swim Academy Students: 20:00 on Friday 28th February – 08:00 on Saturday 1st March
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Football Academy Students: 08:00 – 20:00 on Saturday 1st March
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Basketball Academy Students: 14:00 – 20:00 on Saturday 1st March
To celebrate the achievements of our Academy students in their efforts to raise funds this year, there will be a community BBQ event from 18:00 – 20:00 with free food for players, parents and coaches. There will also be refreshments for sale courtesy of our BTEC Business students, with all proceeds going to the ‘24 Hours to Make a Difference’ funds. This event will take place between the lower Astro-pitch and outdoor Basketball court and along the running track. All academy students, parents, coaches and staff are welcome to attend and make this a memorable culmination to our sporting endeavours.
Nominated Foundations for 2025
We are delighted that the Head Coaches, along with our Secondary Student Leadership, have nominated the following two foundations this year for sponsorship:
All funds raised will be shared equally between these two foundations who each do important work in their respective fields.
Meetings & Presentations
A Special Free Parent Event – Let’s Co-Play! at Cherngtalay Campus
Inviting all parents from across Phuket to attend a unique parent event hosted by Greg Bottrill, renowned childhood advocate and best-selling author of ‘Can I Go & Play Now?’. This will be an engaging and insightful presentation for parents in which he will explore the power of play in building stronger connections with your child, offering tips and advice.
📆 Date: Tuesday 11th February 2025
⏰ Time: 12:45-13:45
📍 Venue: HeadStart International School, Phuket (Cherngtalay Campus)
The event is open to all parents, particularly those of Foundation and Year 1 & 2 parents. Registration is required. To register for you and up to 4 other adults, scan the QR code in the poster below or complete the GoogleForm: Let’s Co-Play Parent Event Registration
Thai Parent Workshop on Teenagers & Mental Health
Inviting all Thai-speaking parents of Secondary students to a workshop about teenagers and their mental health and wellbeing. Join us on Tuesday 4th February at 8:30am in the Primary Hall (second floor).
UPrep Parent Talk 11 – Show Me the Money!
We are excited to invite you to our upcoming UPrep Parent Talk 11: Show Me the Money!
🗓 Date: Wednesday, 5th February
📍 Location: Secondary Hall, Chaofah City Campus
⏰ Time: 8:30 AM – 9:20 AM
This session will provide essential insights into the costs of university education, including tuition, living expenses, and other considerations. We’ll discuss funding options and ways to support your child in making informed decisions about their future. Don’t miss this informative and practical talk to help prepare your family for the financial realities of university life. The UPrep Team
HeadStart Alumni
Class of 2022 – Esther Herbold
Since graduating from Headstart in 2022, I have experienced many sweet moments. I began by attending a one-year Bible school in Texas, where I deepened my religious knowledge through studying the Bible and its history. Following that, I had the incredible opportunity to travel for a semester, broadening my perspective and gaining valuable life experiences. My passion for working with diverse communities led me to a full-time position in the public schools of Grand Forks, North Dakota, where I support new immigrant and multilingual students as they learn English. Having once moved to a foreign country myself — Thailand — I deeply understand the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language. This experience has allowed me to connect with my students in a personal and meaningful way, helping to ease their transition to life in the United States, even amidst difficult circumstances. Additionally, I now serve full-time at my church as the Nursery and Preschool Coordinator, where I get to invest in the lives of young children —something I am incredibly passionate about. Through each of these experiences, I have been able to grow personally, serve others, and create many fun memories.
PE & Sports News
U13 Boys VAP Keep on Developing
Last Monday, a team from our U13 Boys VAP Center of Excellence traveled to Kajonietsuksa to compete in a developmental game. This was an excellent opportunity for our VAP players to demonstrate what they had learned in training and apply it to the competitive game. We are very pleased with the boys’ professionalism, as well as their enthusiasm and attitude toward the game.
The boys finished the game with big smiles on their faces after scoring some fantastic goals and working together to defend as a team. We look forward to many more matches with Kajonkietsuksa and thank you for having us! Well Done boys! Coach Frost – Head Football Coach
Over-15 Basketball Game Recap
HeadStart’s Over-15 boys and girls basketball teams put on an impressive display in their recent games, securing dominant victories. Beyond the scoreboard, the matches were a testament to the strength of our basketball community—players showed resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
A huge thank you to everyone who came out to cheer, as well as to our opponents for a spirited game. The development of the team is paramount to the coaching staff. Our games are not just about the points but about the growth of our athletes and the bonds we build with each other through sport. Coach Grant – Basketball Coach
Languages Department
Being Interactive in Russian First Language Lessons
All teachers strive to make lessons not only informative but also engaging. It is important that students don’t just “sit through” the allotted time but actively participate in the learning process, show interest, and take initiative. Many Russian language lessons are held on the Miro interactive board. I would like to share my experience of using Miro in a Russian language lesson for the 8th grade. The topic was quite difficult — “o and yo after hissing sounds.” As we know, grammar is not the most beloved subject among schoolchildren. But with the help of Miro, I was able to turn learning this topic into an exciting journey!
We started by having the students create a mind map on the topic directly on the board. They wrote examples, drew diagrams, and shared their thoughts. Miro allows several students to work on the task simultaneously, which creates an atmosphere of collaboration and engagement. Then we moved on to practical exercises. Texts with tasks were placed on the board, and the students gladly completed them, using Miro’s interactive tools and commenting on each other’s answers. Pictures, videos, and stickers make the lesson more lively and interesting. The students enjoyed looking at the illustrations and discussing their connection to the topic of the lesson. On the board, it’s possible to monitor each student’s work in real-time, comment on their answers, and provide feedback. And, of course, if someone tries to get distracted by other tabs, Miro allows that too!
At the end of the lesson, we played the traditional game “Battleship,” but instead of ships, there were words related to our topic. The students enjoyed “sinking” words while reviewing the material. The lesson turned out to be very interesting and productive. The students were engaged in the work, actively participated in the discussion, and weren’t afraid to express their opinions. And most importantly, they mastered the difficult topic easily and with pleasure!
Foundation
Lunar New Year Stay & Play
Our Lunar New Year Stay & Play was a wonderful celebration, bringing together families and our parent community in a joyful and festive atmosphere. It was lovely to see the children’s excitement as they proudly shared their classroom with their parents, their learning environment and friendships. Together, we embraced the spirit of the celebration, immersing ourselves in incredible activities that made the experience even more special.
A huge thank you to all the parents and carers for joining us and making this event so memorable. We truly appreciate your support and involvement in creating such a meaningful experience for the children! The Foundation Team
📸 Please find a full album of photos here: Foundation Lunar Year Year Stay & Play 2025
Secondary
An Unforgettable Adventure: Year 8’s Khao Sok Expedition
From the moment we set off on our three-day journey to Khao Sok, it was clear that this would be an experience like no other. The sheer excitement and anticipation among our students were palpable, and as the days unfolded, we were treated to an adventure that will be etched in our memories forever. This trip was more than just an excursion; it was a transformative experience filled with discovery, friendship, and awe-inspiring moments that we will cherish for a lifetime.
Immersed in Nature’s Majesty
The adventure began with a breathtaking introduction to the natural wonders of Khao Sok. Kayaking along the tranquil waters of Cheow Lan Lake was a highlight, as students paddled through towering limestone cliffs and lush rainforest, marveling at the serene beauty around them. For many, this was a first-time experience, one that fostered confidence, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for nature.
Hiking through the dense jungle was another unforgettable challenge. Led by experienced guides, students navigated winding trails, encountering fascinating wildlife and learning about the delicate ecosystem of Khao Sok. As the sun set, the magic of the rainforest transformed our experience during the night safari. The thrill of spotting nocturnal creatures and listening to the symphony of nature left everyone in awe.
Unparalleled Moments of Joy
Of all the unique encounters on our trip, none was as unexpected or amusing as the sight of a man dressed as Spider-Man selling ice creams to people on their boats. This quirky, spontaneous moment became an instant favorite among students and staff alike, adding a touch of humor and lightheartedness to our adventure.
Sleeping in raft houses was another highlight that left a lasting impression. The peacefulness of the lake at night, the gentle lapping of water beneath our floating accommodations, and the sight of the stars reflected in the still waters created an atmosphere of absolute tranquility. This experience deepened friendships, as students bonded over shared stories and laughter, reinforcing the importance of connection and camaraderie.
Building Bridges Beyond Borders
A particularly meaningful part of our trip was our visit to Ratchapraphawittayakom School in Surat Thani. Here, our students had the incredible opportunity to interact with their peers, engaging in cultural exchanges that transcended language barriers. The warmth and hospitality extended to us were overwhelming, and the friendships formed during this visit will undoubtedly endure. It was a powerful reminder of the universal nature of human connection and the impact that meaningful interactions can have on our global perspective.
A Journey That Will Never Be Forgotten
As we returned to Phuket, it was evident that this was more than just a school trip—it was a journey of growth, exploration, and profound connection. The experiences we shared in Khao Sok have left an indelible mark on each of us, fostering resilience, appreciation for the natural world, and friendships that will last a lifetime. The children loved every moment, and many declared it the best trip of their lives.
This adventure will be talked about for years to come, not just as an extraordinary school excursion, but as a defining moment in our students’ lives. It was truly the trip of a lifetime—one that we will never forget.
📸 Please find a full album of photos here: Year 8 Khao Sok
Year 12 Students Sharpen Their Skills in Biology Practical Preparation
The Secondary Science Lab has been a hive of activity as Year 12 Biology students immerse themselves in practical work to prepare for their upcoming Paper 3 practical exam. Guided by their teachers, the practical sessions are designed to reflect the rigor and structure of the Cambridge International Biology syllabus, which emphasises the importance of hands-on learning. Students have been working with microscopes, perfecting their ability to prepare and analyse slides, as well as conducting experiments that test their precision, observation, and problem-solving skills. These activities build a strong foundation for tackling the compulsory practical exam, which is a hallmark of the Cambridge curriculum and recognises the critical role of practical work in understanding science.
Through these sessions, students are not only preparing for their exams but also developing valuable real-world skills. Their focus, curiosity, and dedication are a testament to Headstart’s commitment to providing a robust and engaging science education. With a firm belief that science is best learned by doing, these practical sessions embody the essence of discovery and inquiry that lies at the heart of the subject. The Science team
(A)Mazing Woodwork in Year 8 D&T Class
Year 8 students have been busy in Design & Technology crafting unique wooden mazes inspired by cultural celebrations! Drawing inspiration from Thailand’s Songkran Festival, Easter traditions, or a Spring festival of their choosing, students developed their woodworking skills while exploring global festivities.
Using traditional hand tools and woodworking techniques, they created intricate mazes featuring lap joints and themed designs. Each student’s maze incorporates cultural symbols and challenges players to guide ball-bearings through carefully planned pathways. This project combined precision carpentry with creative expression, teaching valuable skills like measuring, marking, cutting, and assembly.
Students learned about sustainable material choices, while developing problem-solving abilities and an appreciation for different cultural celebrations. The finished mazes aren’t just games but have taught our Year 8 students understanding and appreciation of the many cultures represented at HeadStart – they’re a testament to our students’ technical skills, creativity, and cultural awareness. Mr Wells and the D&T Team
Teacher and Student Adapting to Changes in the Syllabus
The recent changes to the A Level syllabus in Literature has meant that I have had to brush up on Evelyn Waugh’s ‘A Handful of Dust’ for Year 12 and Toni Morrison’s ‘Beloved’ in Year 13. On the one hand, this is a pain as it means I cannot recycle the model essays of VIMAs I have written in previous years. On the other, it is a boon both for me and – more importantly – the students.
For the teacher, it forces one to understand the task from a student’s perspective and engage in the very difficult task of adequately addressing all of the demands of both the text and the assessment objectives. For me, the act of writing an essay helps one better understand both the texts and how to teach them. For the students, I have tried to go to the ‘next level’ with feedback and ‘feed-forward’. The essays act not only as models to emulate, but also offer opportunity for discussion and dissection in feedback sessions. This allows students a better understanding of why certain decisions were made throughout the response and then apply these learnings to their own next efforts. In addition to this, I have augmented the models this year by including vocabulary glossaries and asking AI to give feedback so students can clearly see what makes them effective.
Admittedly, it was rather chastening to read Chat GPT’s ‘areas for improvement’ in my essay, but I suppose, as Tony Last from A Handful of Dust would attest, humility is a virtue. Nonetheless, as you can see in the photos, the students themselves were experiencing the full gamut of emotions after today’s VIMA 4! Mr. Pollicutt – Head of English & EAL
VIMA 3 A Handful of Dust
VIMA 4 Beloved DAPO Model
HeadStart Eco School Term 2 Focus
Sustainable Water Management
SDG 6 is focused upon seeking to ‘Ensure Availability and Sustainable Management of Water and Sanitation For All’
As a community here on Phuket, our main concern is ensuring that water is managed effectively to ensure we can get through the Hot Hot season with minimal impact upon our water supply. Every year, the wells run dry and communities go without access to water on the island. Year on year, the point at which the island ‘runs out’ of water and has to pump it in from the mainland arrives earlier and earlier and lasts longer and longer. Last year, on Koh Samui, communities and businesses endured weeks without access to water. Without access to water, issues around sanitation and health begin to emerge and the cost of drinking water can go up for the most vulnerable in our communities.
The Eco Committee begins its new focus on educating the school community on how we can do our bit to reduce water consumption and with that help alleviate some of the risks associated with a lack of water. Last term students of Humanities in Year 8 studied and measured the Risk associated with the Hazard of water shortage. They will build upon that knowledge after the mid term break while exploring how we can make urban living, such as life here in Phuket, more sustainable.
Join is in being more mindful about your water consumption and check out the Top Tips in the links below.
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Our Reception sessions within the Growing Gardens, every other Tuesday, are going well with students starting to show a real understanding about and care for how we maintain healthy plants.
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Lower and Upper Primary have been collaborating on their new Campaign, ‘In-School Plastic Reduction’ and in working together to collect and recycle paper across the Primary classrooms.
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Lower and Upper Secondary will soon launch their new campaign linked to their successful Community Beach Clean efforts. The plan is to design and launch two ways of raising awareness; an informative T-Shirt and a webpage filled with Top Tips.
| Did You Know? | We touched on this earlier in the year but it is worth reminding the community of steps we could take with regards to the air we breathe. Climate is not just about longer dry seasons and more intense wet seasons here on Phuket but also about the quality of our air. Last year air quality on Phuket on a number of occasions was measured to be more toxic and potentially harmful than that of Bangkok and Chiang Mai. So far this year Bangkok has already ranked as some of the worst air in the world – lest not have that happen here. Switch off your engines at pick up. Consider car sharing. Reduce your car journeys as much as you can. |
| Interesting Links | Water Saving Top Tips |
| Clean Water |
Promotions From Around the Island
Introducing Natontity – All Natural, Coral-safe, and Waterproof Sunscreen in Six Colours!
Important Dates
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