Chaofah City
Chaofah City
Thai Language & Culture
Connecting Students with Thai Culture
Through traditional ceremonies, language learning, and community service, our students develop a practical and grounded understanding of Thailand’s rich heritage and values. By taking part in meaningful cultural practices and local charity work, students across HeadStart International School build mutual respect and forge strong ties with the wider Phuket community.
Saturday Thai Culture Club
Once per term, the Thai department organises a selection of activities that are designed to help our Thai community learn more about their own culture, way of life, food, agriculture as well as topics such as respect for elders and religious awareness. Students are also encouraged to participate in charity work so that they learn how to become a good member of the community. A highlight of the Saturday Thai Culture Club has been going to visit children in the Pediatrics ward of the local hospital. HeadStart students, parents and teachers have brought cheer to the patients by talking and reading to the children in order to get their mind off their discomfort.
Songkran
As part of the Thai new year celebrations, parents and HeadStart staff join in the Thai Buddhist tradition of giving alms to monks. This tradition is about showing kindness to others and doing good deeds, values that are irrespective of religion. As part of our Songkran celebrations at the end of term 2, students will observe the ‘Song Nam Phra’ tradition of pouring scented water on a Buddha statue.
The all school Songkran assembly is not only culturally rich with Thai tradition but also a lot of fun. The HeadStart support staff begin the event with a procession of drums and a lively Thai dance. After traditional Thai performances students are then invited to perform the traditional ‘water blessing’ for their teachers after which they were sprinkled with scented water. This is always a wonderful way to end a very busy but productive term 2.
Wai Kru Ceremony
Wai Kru translates directly to ‘Teacher Appreciation Day’ and represents a highly significant tradition in Thai educational culture. At HeadStart, we organise an annual formal ceremony to honour this practice and recognise the dedication of our academic staff. During the event, students deliver thoughtful speeches of appreciation outlining how their teachers have guided them and helped them succeed both socially and academically. Students then take turns presenting traditional floral offerings and giving a respectful ‘wai’ to their teachers. This meaningful event fosters mutual respect, strengthens the student-teacher bond, and allows our diverse community to actively participate in local heritage.
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.
