Chaofah City
Chaofah City
Preparing for Global Destinations
The University Preparation (UPrep) programme provides structured, bespoke support from Year 9 through to graduation. By helping students select the most appropriate IGCSE subjects and build strong extracurricular profiles, our counsellors ensure students maximise their chances of university admission. This targeted approach consistently guides HeadStart alumni to leading institutions globally, while also fully supporting students who choose alternative pathways, such as a gap year or military service.
We recognise that securing the right university placement is a collaborative effort between the school, the student, and the family. To keep parents fully informed and involved, HeadStart regularly hosts comprehensive university presentations alongside informal drop-in sessions. These sessions offer parents the opportunity to discuss individual applications over coffee with our Sixth Form team, with all upcoming dates announced via the weekly update and our parent communication channels.
Contact our team if you would like more information regarding university applications, preparation or just to get in touch.
- Mr Neil Roscoe
[email protected] - Mr Simon Thomas
[email protected] - Kru Toom
[email protected] (Thai applications)
UPrep Talk Programme 2026-2027
Below is the schedule of UPrep presentations for the academic year. These sessions are designed to guide parents through every stage of the university application process across global destinations.
| Date | Event Title | What will the talk be about? | Who might be interested? |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd September 2026 | Introduction to UPrep and Unifrog | General information about the HeadStart UPrep programme and how HeadStart supports university progression. An overview for parents and discussion of how they can support children with applications. | Any interested parents. |
| 16th September 2026 | Your child’s 5 year plan | A general outline of what families can be doing to prepare for university applications and how to make use of your child’s Morrisby Report. | Designed for parents across Secondary. |
| 30th September 2026 | Choosing subjects and careers | Information about how to ensure your child makes effective subject choices at IGCSE and A Level. How to talk to your child about career options and support them in planning their future. | Parents of children in Years 8 - Year 11, especially those who are looking at IGCSE (Year 9) and A Level (Year 11) options this year. |
| 28th October 2026 | Comparing different university systems | Find out the basic differences between university/college study around the world - how studying in the UK, USA, Europe, Canada or Asia differs. | Any parents unfamiliar with international university systems or unsure about destinations. |
| 11th November 2026 | Applying to Thai universities | Important details and information about top universities in Thailand, their entry requirements and how to apply through TCAS. | Any families interested in Thai universities for their child’s university study. |
| 25th November 2026 | Application and standardised testing | Information about the different tests university applications require, including standardised tests like SAT, language tests like IELTS and TOEFL, and subject specialist tests like UCAT and LNAT. | Families with older children who are preparing for university study, Year 10 - Year 13. |
| 9th December 2026 | Applying to the UK and Europe | Important details and information about how applications to the UK and other European destinations work. | Any families interested in the UK or other European destinations for their child’s university study. |
| 13th January 2027 | Applying to the USA / Canada | Important details and information about how applications to the USA and Canada work. | Any families interested in the USA or Canada for their child’s university study. |
| 27th January 2027 | Applying to universities in Australia / New Zealand | How to talk to your child about their university options and simple tools to help prioritise factors in university or college choice. | Any interested parents, especially families with older children, Year 10 - Year 12. |
| 10th February 2027 | Applying to Asian Universities | Detail of how apply to Asian countries such as Hong Kong, Singapore or Malaysia. | Parents of students in Y10 - 13 wishing to apply to Asian universities. |
| 3rd March 2027 | Alternative pathways and gap years | This session will consider the advantages, disadvantages and processes involved with alternative pathways and/or gap years. | Parents of students in Y10 - 13 considering a gap year or alternative pathways such as foundation courses, employment and apprenticeships. |
| 17th March 2027 | Fees, funding and finances | This session will compare the costs of different universities, countries and systems. It will outline key terminology and talk through basic information about financial aid and scholarship procedures. | Anyone who wants more information about costs, fee status and finance. |
| 28th April 2027 | UPrep for Parents by Parents | An opportunity for a discussion on the process of supporting children to apply to university and making the transition from school. This is led by parents who have supported their children through this process. | Families with older children who are preparing for university study, Year 10 - Year 13. |
| 12th May 2027 | Applying to Oxbridge | A session that advises parents about the requirements and processes involved with studying at either Oxford or Cambridge in the UK. | Parents of students in Years 10 - 13 wishing to apply to Oxbridge. |
| 26th May 2027 | Applying to Ivy League and top US universities | A session that advises parents about the requirements and processes involved with studying at Ivy League and other top US universities. | Parents of students Years 10 - 13 wishing to apply to top universities in the US. |
Using Unifrog and Morrisby
Unifrog is an internationally recognised platform for researching university courses and managing applications, while Morrisby provides comprehensive career and subject profiling. This guide will help you understand how to navigate these platforms and support your child's university research journey.
BTEC and A Levels
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the BTEC and A Level qualification pathways at HeadStart. It outlines course structures, grading systems, and how each qualification translates into university entry requirements across global higher education destinations.
Understanding Home Fee Status
Navigating university tuition fees can be complex for expatriate families. This guide explains the regulations, residency requirements, and eligibility criteria governing 'Home Fee' status for UK nationals living overseas, helping families plan university finances effectively.
Education Visas After August Results
For many students, university offers are only finalised once official exam results are released in August. This parent guide outlines key preparation steps, documentation timelines, TB and medical checks, and visa application procedures to ensure a seamless transition to university.
Useful Links
A curated selection of platforms and directories to assist students and parents in researching higher education destinations, application procedures, and financial planning.
Recommended Reading
Navigating the university admissions process can be a complex and demanding journey. To help guide you, we have curated a selection of recommended reading. These books offer valuable insights, practical advice, and peace of mind as both parents and students prepare for the transition to higher education.
For Parents
| Title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be | Frank Bruni | This book aims to reduce the anxiety surrounding college admissions by reminding readers that the university attended doesn’t define career success. |
| The Truth About College Admission: A Family Guide | Brennan Barnard and Rick Clark | This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the application process, including advice on navigating the process as a family. |
| How to Raise an Adult | Julie Lythcott-Haims | Offers insights into raising resilient children who can handle challenges and setbacks, potentially impacting their success in the application process and beyond. |
| The College Conversation | Amy Stein | Provides practical guidance and support for parents as they navigate the college application process. |
| Getting Ready for College | Polly Berent and The Princeton Review | Practical advice on preparing for college, from choosing a university to packing for the first year. |
| Study Abroad Made Simple | Neil Roscoe | Written by our own University Guidance Counsellor, this book provides a clear and practical roadmap for students and families navigating the complexities of the international university application process. |
For Students
| Title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|
| The College Bound Organizer | Anna Costaras | A step-by-step guide to help students navigate the college application process, from building a list to submitting applications. |
| Fiske Real College Essays That Work | Edward Fiske | A collection of successful essays with analysis and advice to help students write compelling personal statements. |
| Conquering the College Admissions Essay in 10 Steps | Alan Gelb | A practical, structured guide to crafting a standout application essay. |
| College Essay Essentials | Ethan Sawyer | A practical guide with step-by-step instructions on writing a compelling personal statement, complete with examples. |
| Brave New World: How to Build a Standout College Application | Jenny Umhofer | Offers advice on showcasing unique strengths, extracurricular achievements, and personal voice in college applications. |
| College Match: A Blueprint for Choosing the Best School for You | Steven Antonoff | Worksheets and exercises to help students discover who they are and identify the best-fit colleges for their profile. |
Talks & Downloads
Download our latest talk presentations and informational guides for university preparation.
Our commitment to your child
A vibrant global community
At HeadStart, your child joins a welcoming family of over 50 nationalities. We foster a supportive, inclusive environment where students build lifelong friendships and develop a true understanding of the world.
Proven academic excellence
Your child’s future is our focus. Our students consistently achieve outstanding IGCSE and A-Level results, earning 'Top in Thailand' and 'Top in the World' awards. This academic rigor opens doors to the world's leading universities, including Yale, Stanford, and Cambridge.
Nurturing individual potential
We believe true growth happens when learning is personal. Our passionate, professional teachers take the time to understand your child's unique talents and learning style, providing tailored support and challenges that build confidence and inspire a love of learning.
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.
