Duke of Edinburgh Programme (Ages: 14-18)

Empowering Students Through the DoE Award

At HeadStart, the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award challenges students to step outside their comfort zones, build genuine resilience, and serve their local community. Guided by experienced leaders, teenagers aged 14 to 18 master new skills, navigate outdoor expeditions, and earn a prestigious accolade that strengthens global university applications.

Confidence and Collaboration

Students develop essential life skills by committing to physical challenges, learning new abilities, and giving back to the community. They learn to navigate adversity, collaborate with peers, and lead with confidence during demanding outdoor expeditions.

A Competitive University Edge

Universities and global employers actively seek the dedication, independence, and self-discipline demonstrated by award holders. Completing the Bronze, Silver, or Gold levels provides a prestigious, globally recognised accolade that makes university applications stand out.

Part of the Core Journey

We build this character-defining experience directly into the Secondary journey. All Year 10 students complete the Bronze Award as part of the core curriculum, providing a strong foundation before they choose to pursue the advanced Silver and Gold levels in Sixth Form.

Rated
Outstanding
In all eight areas
by Education Development Trust
ISQM Gold · Education Development Trust

Independently assessed and rated Outstanding in all eight areas, from teaching and curriculum to care, community and leadership.

Teaching and learning

“High-quality teaching enables pupils to acquire excellent knowledge, skills and understanding to make outstanding rates of progress.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026
1600+
Students

A Truly Global Community

A culturally diverse learning environment across 2 campuses with over 1600 students representing families from all over the world.

How well the school cares for and supports its students

“Pupils enjoy being part of a caring learning community. They believe that their views are listened to and acted upon.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026

100% IGCSE Pass Rate

Reflecting our unwavering commitment to foundational academic success, an outstanding 42% of our IGCSE students received A* or A Grades.

Students’ personal development

“Pupils are very proud that the school is an inclusive environment where everyone is welcomed and supported with their learning.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026

Globally Recognised & Accredited

ISQM GoldCambridge InternationalFOBISIA MemberWhite Rose Maths Champion SchoolPearson Edexcel ApprovedDuke of Edinburgh’s Award
Leadership and management

“Staff, pupils and parents consistently describe the school as a family and an inclusive community.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026
47%
A or A* Grades

A-Level Excellence

Academic rigour proven by students consistently achieving Cambridge ‘Top in Thailand’ and ‘Top in the World’ awards.

The curriculum

“Almost all children begin the day excited about something new to learn or revisiting prior learning.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026

Pathways to the World’s Best Universities

Stanford UniversityYale UniversityIvy League UniversitiesUniversity of CambridgeUniversity of EdinburghDurham UniversityUniversity of BristolUniversity of ManchesterUniversity of YorkUniversity of AmsterdamUniversity of TwenteESSEC Business SchoolUniversity of WarwickUniversity of St AndrewsNewcastle UniversityCardiff UniversityUniversity of GlasgowLancaster UniversityLoughborough UniversityUtrecht UniversityUniversity of GroningenEindhoven University of TechnologyRoyal Veterinary CollegeCurtin UniversityChulalongkorn UniversityMahidol UniversityThammasat UniversityPrince of Songkla UniversitySrinakharinwirot University
The quality and quantity of the school’s accommodation and resources

“The high-class facilities at both sites support and enhance pupils’ experience and learning.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026

Environmental & Social Responsibility

Zero-single-use-plastic policiesIntegrated sustainability curriculumRegular coastal & beach cleanupsActive student-led Eco-Committees80% solar-powered operationsDedicated local community outreach
The standards reached by students in their work and the progress they make in the core subjects of English, mathematics and science

“Pupils achieve exceptionally high standards in creative and performing arts, in physical and athletic pursuits, in computing, and in humanities.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026
60%

BTEC Vocational Success

In our specialized career pathways, an impressive 60% earned a Distinction Star or Distinction in their Year 13 BTEC grades.

The school’s partnership with parents and the community

“The school’s leaders succeed in their aim to value families as essential collaborators in the life of the school.”

Education Development Trust ISQM Accreditation Report, 2026
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Supervision & Safety

We believe that outdoor education should be challenging, but never unsafe. Our expeditions are backed by detailed risk assessments and managed by experienced professionals. With strict supervision checkpoints and robust emergency protocols in place, parents can feel completely confident as their children explore, learn, and grow.

Real-World Problem Solving

Students tackle unpredictable, real-time challenges during outdoor expeditions. By navigating changing conditions and group dynamics without immediate adult intervention, they build critical problem-solving skills and learn to trust their own judgment.

Volunteering

Students dedicate their time to support local charities, environmental projects, or community initiatives. By engaging in consistent community service, they drive positive change and build genuine empathy for the world around them.

Physical

Participants set measurable targets to improve their health and fitness. Whether they choose team sports, dance routines, or personal conditioning, students learn the value of physical wellbeing and long-term athletic commitment.

Skills

Young adults broaden their horizons by mastering a new practical, social, or creative skill. From coding and photography to cooking and public speaking, this section requires sustained focus and a willingness to learn.

Expedition

Teams plan, train for, and execute a multi-day adventurous journey in Thailand or abroad. They navigate unfamiliar terrain, manage camp logistics, and rely entirely on teamwork to succeed in the wild.

Life at HeadStart

From academic breakthroughs to championship wins, there is always an inspiring story unfolding at HeadStart. Browse the latest articles below to catch up on the news, events, and daily life across our Chaofah and Cherngtalay campuses.

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