Chaofah City
Chaofah City
Languages Department (Ages: 4-18)
Mastering Languages for a Global Future
Our comprehensive World Languages programme equips students aged 5 to 18 with the communication skills needed for global success. Whether mastering English as an Additional Language (EAL), preserving a native mother tongue or acquiring a new foreign language, students develop the cultural fluency and confidence to thrive internationally.
Connecting with the World
Step inside our dynamic language classrooms. Offering a rich selection of modern languages, our curriculum goes beyond rote memorisation to focus on active, real-world communication. Supported by specialist teachers, students develop high-level proficiency, cultural empathy, and the linguistic agility to thrive in an interconnected world.
Accelerated English Mastery
Non-native English speakers build rapid academic fluency through our intensive English as an Additional Language (EAL) programme. Expert teachers provide targeted small-group instruction and in-class support, ensuring they can confidently access the core British curriculum.
Nurturing Native Languages
Maintaining a mother tongue strengthens cognitive development, emotional security and family bonds. We offer rigorous first language pathways in Thai, Mandarin and Russian, taught by native specialists from Year 1 through to Sixth Form.
Immersive Language Instruction
Our modern foreign language programme immerses students in authentic linguistic environments. Led by native-speaking specialists, lessons in French, Mandarin and Thai utilise active role-play, engaging multimedia and collaborative projects to ensure language acquisition is practical and highly engaging.
A Message from the Director of Languages
Welcome to the Department of Languages at HeadStart International School. Our department brings together a vibrant team of specialist educators dedicated to nurturing linguistic confidence, cultural curiosity, and global citizenship across both our Chaofah and Cherngtalay campuses. We believe that language learning extends far beyond vocabulary acquisition. It is a critical gateway to understanding diverse peoples, places, and global perspectives.
Whether our students are developing their native fluency in our First Language programmes or discovering a completely new language, we maintain exceptionally high standards of teaching and assessment. Our curriculum offers a progressive pathway from Year 1 all the way through to A Level, encompassing French, Mandarin, Russian, and English as an Additional Language. Every lesson across our faculty is designed to move beyond passive learning, prioritising active communication and production from day one.
We take immense pride in our inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking environment. Through rich curriculum enrichment initiatives, including our vibrant language days, international certifications, and regional network events, we provide practical contexts for students to apply their skills in the real world. We are committed to inspiring a lifelong love for languages and equipping our students with the intercultural empathy required to thrive as true global citizens.
We invite you to explore our programmes and join us in celebrating the rich cultural diversity that defines our school community.
Benjamin Salmon
Benjamin Salmon
Director of Languages
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
We ensure every non-native English speaker gains the precise academic language required to excel. Our EAL specialists deliver a structured programme that equips students with the vocabulary, grammatical foundations and conversational confidence necessary to participate fully in mainstream lessons. Teachers use targeted interventions, collaborative peer activities and continuous assessment to guide students from initial language acquisition to complete fluency. By removing language barriers early, we empower children to demonstrate their true academic capabilities, form meaningful friendships and become active members of the school community.
Additional Educational Needs (AEN)
Students facing specific learning barriers receive dedicated guidance through our Additional Educational Needs (AEN) framework. Our Learning Support specialists provide small-group interventions, tailored learning plans and focused literacy assistance. This targeted approach ensures learners overcome processing challenges, build academic confidence and successfully navigate the core language curriculum.
Very Able Pupil Programmes (VAPPs)
Highly gifted linguists are challenged to exceed standard expectations through our Very Able Pupil Programmes (VAPPs). Students engage in advanced literary analysis, competitive public speaking and sophisticated research projects. This rigorous academic stretch ensures high-achieving learners remain continuously motivated, intellectually stimulated and prepared for elite university pathways.
Thai Language and Culture
First language Thai students engage in rigorous literary analysis, advanced composition and cultural studies. Foreign language Thai learners build practical conversational skills, read foundational texts and participate in traditional events to connect meaningfully with the local community.
Mandarin Chinese
Whether as First or Foreign Language Mandarin learners, students experience a vibrant, interactive curriculum designed to build rapid fluency. Teachers blend rigorous character recognition, active dialogue and engaging cultural practices. The programme ensures students are fully prepared for the demands of IGCSE and A-Level examinations.
Russian First Language
Native Russian speakers maintain deep ties to their heritage through an immersive first language programme. Students study classical literature, refine complex grammar and engage in collaborative projects. This rigorous academic structure ensures they retain sophisticated expression and complete first language literacy.
French Foreign Language
Our French programme brings European culture to life through dynamic, active communication. Students build strong phonetic skills, engage in interactive role-play and explore Francophone media. The curriculum challenges learners to become Open Minded global citizens capable of articulating their ideas clearly.
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.
