My name is Ashley and I joined HeadStart International School in 2018. I studied English Language & Linguistics at The University of Manchester and completed my teacher training course at Edge Hill University in Liverpool shortly after. I teach English Language and Literature at HeadStart, and I am also the Coordinator for Year 9. As an English teacher, I always try to make English an exciting journey for all of my students. Competent reading and writing skills are so essential – with a strong foundation, doors can be instantly opened to the many wonders the world has to offer. I also love that I get to play such an instrumental part in shaping the pastoral care at HeadStart International School. Of course, it goes without saying - for students to thrive academically, they have to be happy and healthy. For me, teaching is all about those eureka moments – when a student suddenly ‘gets it’, and the jigsaw puzzle finally slots together - seeing my students brimming with pride and happiness is always a fantastic feeling. As for teaching itself, there is something undeniably magical about it; I really couldn’t imagine myself doing anything else. Knowing that I get to shape the lives of so many young people every year makes me feel incredibly lucky. High School can be a tough five years for a whole host of reasons, and being able to help students navigate their way to the end – there’s really no better feeling! Outside of the classroom, I try to live quite an active life. I enjoy working out (although I often have to force myself!) However, my biggest passion in life is running; I feel so grateful to be living on such a beautiful island – and what’s better than exploring Phuket by going on a nice long run? I am excited to be starting my fifth year here at HeadStart International School. It’s been truly wonderful seeing the school develop, and I feel blessed to be a part of such an amazing community.