Weekly Update #16, 13 December 2024

Announcements

ECA Bookings for Terms 2 and 3

Please find here a list of important dates regarding booking your child’s/children’s Extra Curricular Activities (ECAs) for Terms 2 and 3:

Also, we have updated the way in which display our Extra Curricular Activity (ECA) offer. You can view a full up-to-date list of all ECAs for the current term here:

ECA Options at Cherngtalay

Meetings & Presentations

Parent Committee Meeting on 07.11.24

On Thursday 7th November, the HeadStart Cherngtalay Parent Committee held its first meeting with representatives from the School board and Leadership, including Jazon Edouard, CEO. We are grateful for the contributions and time given by parents representing different sections of our ever-growing school community. Meeting Notes from this meeting can be found on our Parent Committee webpage, in the ‘Record Keeping’ section: https://headstartphuket.com/school-life/parent-committee

Phuket Sunshine Village Fundraiser

On Saturday 7th December, our Primary Student Leadership team made us proud as they visited Phuket Sunshine Village (PSV) to host a mini-sports day for the children there. With careful thought and collaboration, they planned an exciting rotation of eight sporty and engaging activities, thinking carefully about what the PSV children would enjoy. From organising equipment to preparing instructions in both English and Thai, our student leaders displayed exceptional planning and collaboration. On the day, they didn’t just run the activities — they led with enthusiasm, kindness, and boundless energy, cheering the children on and inspiring them to join in the fun. Our Primary Student Leaders were supported by a dedicated teaching team from both campuses, including Mr Lawler, Mr Whitham and Ms Davies.

These young leaders were outstanding role models for HeadStart, showcasing teamwork and compassion in action. A huge congratulations to them for their dedication and hard work. You’ve made us incredibly proud!

📸 A full set of photographs of the Primary Student Leadership visit to PSV can be found here: PSV Visit

House News

Red Phoenix’s Get Their Rightful Reward!

On Tuesday, 10th December 2024, the students of Phoenix House, winners of the most house points this term, enjoyed an exciting trip to Robinson Mall in Thalang as a reward for their hard work and dedication. The trip was an opportunity for students to relax and celebrate their achievements in a fun, engaging environment.

Movie Screening:

The day began with a screening of Moana 2 at SF Cinema, where students were treated to the latest adventure of Moana whilst munching on yummy popcorn. The movie was a hit, with students thoroughly enjoying the vibrant animation, engaging storyline, and memorable characters.

Lunch Arrangements:

After the movie, students had lunch at a few different restaurants. While our younger students from Years 1 and 2 dined at the Pizza Company, where they enjoyed delicious pizzas in a fun and relaxed atmosphere, our Year 3-6 students were treated to a hearty meal at Sizzler, where they enjoyed a variety of grilled dishes, salad bar options, and refreshing beverages. They really enjoyed the sweet treat dessert options too! Finally, our older students from Years 7-9 enjoyed lunch at BonChon, savoring crispy Korean fried chicken along with other tasty side dishes.

The trip was a fantastic reward for the students of Phoenix House, providing them with the opportunity to bond, relax, and celebrate their success in a memorable way. The students returned to school with big smiles and great memories of a well-deserved day out. A special thank you goes to all the teachers and staff who helped organise and supervise the event. Ms Thompson - House Coordinator

ECA News

Winter Knights Chess Tournament

Our inter-school “Winter Knights” Chess Tournament was held on Saturday 7th December featuring 60 chess officiandos from 10 schools and chess clubs across Phuket: HeadStart (Chaofah City and Cherngtalay campuses), UWC, KIS, ISP, BCIS, Kajonkiet, Oak Meadow, BISP, the Southside Knights and Ali’s BBQ Chess Club.

In the general classification of a very strong chess tournament, HeadStart’s very own Mark Kolesnikov (U14) got an amazing 3rd place and Bronze medal, finishing just slightly behind the winner and runner-up players who won trophies in the U16 and U18 categories. Another HeadStart student, Tigran Davtian (U14) also fought fiercely to finish in a highly respectable 4th place overall. When divided into age group categories, HeadStart students completely dominated the Under 10s, and also performed well in the U12, U14, U16 age groups as well as the Female category.

Under 10 years old:

• 🥇 1st: Georgiy (5 White Chaofah City)

• 🥈 2nd: Tigger (4 White Chaofah City)

• 🥉 3rd: Bogdan (5 Blue Chaofah City)

Under 12 years old:

• 🥉 3rd: Luka (6 Blue Cherngtalay)

Under 14 years old:

• 🥇 1st: Mark (9 Blue Cherngtalay)

• 🥈 2nd: Tigran (8 Blue Cherngtalay)

Under 16 years old:

• 🥈 2nd: Luka (11 Yellow Chaofah City)

Female

• 🥉 3rd: Amalia (9 Yellow Chaofah City)

Languages Department

Spanish Language Day

We would like to express our sincere thanks to all the families who joined us for the vibrant Spanish Language Morning on Saturday, December 7th! It was a truly special event, offering families the chance to participate in fun activities that celebrated the global importance of the Spanish language. The day was filled with excitement, as families connected with one another, engaged with the children, and immersed themselves in the warmth of the Spanish-speaking community here at Headstart International School. We also shared many unforgettable moments together, all while enjoying a delicious spread of food!

A big thank you as well to Casa Boho in Kamala and La Salada in Rawai for their generous sponsorship and support of this memorable event. Gracias y !Feliz Navidad¡ Thank you! and ¡FELIZ NAVIDAD!

Learning About Celebrations and Culture in Russian Language Lessons

In Russian language lessons, we study not only the rules, but also familiarize ourselves with celebrations and the features of Russian culture. We pay attention to interactive games, which make the lessons exciting and dynamic. The use of visual materials - pictures, cards, diagrams - helps to perceive and memorize the material more deeply. The teacher creates an atmosphere in which each student can be active and interested. This approach helps to develop not only knowledge, but also communication skills. Lessons become bright and memorable, turning learning into a fascinating and multifaceted journey through the world of language. Ms Kuzina - Russian Language Teacher

Foundation

Christmas Stay & Play in Early Years

Our Early Years Christmas Stay & Play provided a warm and welcoming environment for children and parents alike, making it a delightful way for our school community to share in the joy of the holiday festivities. It was heart-warming to see so many families come together, spending quality time whilst strengthening the bond between teachers, parents and their children. With a wide variety of engaging activities, all themed around the festive season, our little learners were immersed in a world of creativity and fun!

After an entertaining festive performance from each of our Early Years classes, families were invited to visit Santa and his little helpers in their secret grotto, bringing joy to our Christmas Stay & Play event. What a fantastic way to get everyone ready for the ho-ho-ho-holiday season!

📸 A full album of photos can be found here: Early Years Christmas Stay & Play 2024

Preschool Christmas Stay & Play

A big thank-you to all the parents and carers who joined us for our festive Preschool Stay & Play session! This year was extra special as youngest learners took to the stage for the first time. The children were so proud to perform and share the Christmas spirit with everyone. One of the biggest hits of the day was the snow paper activity, which brought joy to both children and parents alike. It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoying it together!

Thank you for making this such a magical day. We wish you and your families a joyful and festive holiday season!

📸 A full album of photos can be found here: Preschool Christmas Stay & Play 2024

Christmas Stay & Play in Reception

A heartfelt thank-you to all the parents and carers who joined us for our festive Reception Stay & Play session! The highlight of the event was undoubtedly the Reception children’s lively rendition of The Twelve Days of Christmas; their wholehearted singing of “Five Gold Rings!” had everyone smiling and filled the room with holiday cheer!

To make the day even more magical, Santa himself paid us a special visit! The children were delighted to meet him and share their Christmas wishes. We hope you enjoyed the festive activities and these special moments with us. Wishing you and your families a joyful and magical holiday season!

📸 A full album of photos can be found here: Reception Christmas Stay & Play 2024

Primary

Going on a Bug Hunt in Year 4

The Year 4s had an exciting time on their invertebrate hunt in the school gardens! They discovered many weird and wonderful creatures, including insects, arachnids, and annelids. To their surprise, they also observed some reptiles visiting the trees! Using their observations, the students made detailed scientific diagrams and descriptions of their findings — a fantastic way to connect with nature and practice scientific skills. They also collaboratively created awareness posters on how we can protect and sustain our beautiful oceans. Well done Year 4! Mrs Cotterell - Year 4 Teacher

Success Outside School

• 🥇 Congratulations to Kristina (4 Yellow) for achieving first place and receiving a gold medal and gold trophy 🏆 for her rhythmic gymnastics routine at the International Dynasty Gymnastic Cup in Dubai and Singapore.

• 🥉 Congratulations to Kira (2 Blue) for winning two bronze medals for 3rd place finishes at the International Christmas Cup in Singapore with Karpenko Rhythmic Gymnastics Academy.

• 🏆 Congratulations to Gosha (4 Blue) who was the winner of the U10 Boys tournament at Siam Sports Pro Tennis Academy Phuket as well as the 8 and Under Boys tournament at the 36th Tecnifibre Schools Tennis at Oceanic Sports School.

• 🏆 Congratulations to Kai (4 Blue) who was the winner of the U8 Boys tournament at Siam Sports Pro Tennis Academy Phuket.

• 👏 Well done to Liam (4 Blue) and Ruslan (4 Yellow) who were both semi-finalists in the 8 and Under Boys tournament at the 36th Tecnifibre Schools Thai Tennis League tournament held at the Oceanic Sports School.

• 🏆 Congratulations to Jaxon (2 Yellow) who won his first Taekwondo competition (Class D) at the Robinson Lifestyle Chalong Phuket Taekwondo Championships.

• 👏 Well done to Hana (3 Yellow) for taking part in the Spartan Kids 2024 at Blue Tree.

Promotions From Around the Island