WORDS FROM CEO ABOUT US

Transcription

1 Study Tour 2019

2 WORDS FROM CEO With neck-breaking pace of technological advancement and digital information so readily available at our finger tips, I see stronger and more pressing reasons to take our students out to see the world, to meet people and to experience what is real! In today s world, we can t help but be global citizens: countries are more inter-connected, cultures are more intercrossed, and human beings are more inter-dependent! Those who are more adaptable, more understanding and more open will be better positioned to lead, to prosper and to be successful. Most sincerely, Mrs. Dannie Hongchoy CEO & Executive Director That is why we believe in study tours, the kind that opens our students eyes, widens their horizons, cultivates understandings and genuinely harnesses their language skills. With that principle in mind, Headstart Group forges strategic partnerships with Stafford House from the UK and High Achievers from Singapore to provide the most impactful and relevant overseas learning experience. Quality and value of these learning experience are what we promise. Come and leverage on our expertise and let your students live, play and learn at a place outside Hong Kong and come back intrigued, inspired and invigorated. ABOUT US Headstart Group Headstart Group is Hong Kong s pre-eminent English educational institution. We are dynamic, driven and a market leader in the industry. We provide bespoke English curriculum development, in-class and after-school English programmes, study tours, teacher training and native-speaking English teacher (NET) recruitment services for our clients. We serve more than 250 schools and universities and are well-known for our superior quality of services all round.

3 Singapore UK Edinburgh Oakham Canterbury Malvern Cambridge Letchworth Woodcote Bloomsbury, London Brighton Contents Our Partners United Kingdom Why UK? Bloomsbury, London Brighton Cambridge Canterbury Edinburgh Letchworth Malvern Oakham Woodcote Singapore Why Singapore? Singapore S.T.E.M. Singapore Discovery Information The Process: From Start to Finish What did the students say? What did the teachers say? Headstart Travel & Learn Scholarship FAQ

4 OUR PARTNERS Overseas Partners Stafford House International, UK For more than 20 years Stafford House has been providing high quality English language and activity courses for young learners at a wide range of great locations throughout the UK and the USA. Stafford House provides exceptional student care and, with dedicated student welfare staff at every centre, it ensures that all students are looked after, safe and happy. Stafford House s English language courses in the UK are accredited by the British Council, and it is the founder members of Young Learners English UK, a group who are dedicated to ensuring excellence in all aspects of courses, especially in the welfare of younger students. EXCEPTIONAL STUDENT CARE High Achievers, Singapore Established in 1995, High Achievers is a pre-eminent, well-established student training consultancy in Singapore who specializes in equipping students aged 9-20 with relevant skill-sets and attitudes to achieve excellence at school and at work and to meet the challenges of a rapidlydeveloping world. Since its inception, it has been operating under the company s four corporate values: Customer-focused, Synergistic Partnerships, Passion for Excellence and Dynamic Relevance. The company was accredited ISO 9001:2000 on 6th June Today, the company has conducted courses and seminars for more than 300,000 students from over 150 primary and secondary schools, and tertiary institutions from countries and locations all over the world. Headstart Group and Partners Video 1

5 OUR PARTNERS Local Partner New Bright Travel International Company Limited (Travel Agent Licence No.: & TIC Membership No.: O) New Bright has been operating travel and ticketing services in Hong Kong for over 12 years. Like Headstart Group, it puts emphasis on quality service. It provides expertise in ticketing, online check-in, visa applications and all matters in relation to overseas travels. 2

6 UK Edinburgh Oakham Canterbury Malvern Cambridge Letchworth Woodcote Bloomsbury, London Brighton 3

7 UNITED KINGDOM Bloomsbury Cambridge Brighton Canterbury Edinburgh Oakham Malvern Woodcote 4

8 WHY UK? English is the international language of business, law, science and technology and is UK s official language. By studying and living in Britain, students will immerse in the language and have the opportunity to use it widely and to improve their English communication skills. UK is one of the most popular countries to travel to for the purpose of earning a high quality education and has a long history of welcoming international students. The British have a reputation for tolerance and fair play. The media are independent and frequently critical and outspoken, and there is a strong belief in justice, law and order. Generally, the British are polite and deferential. UK is full of historical landmarks and amazing museums and events to keep students entertained while learning at the same time. UK holds a long, rich and interesting history that makes it an ideal place for people of all backgrounds. London is home to many museums, galleries, music theatres, historic churches, monuments and landmarks, many of which are free of admission charges and are major tourist attractions as well as popular sites for arts and research. 5

9 It is believed that the UK has more English language courses than any other country. Come to the UK and you can learn English for educational purposes or for fun. In the UK, English language learning is about having fun and taking part. Instead of just listening to teachers, classes will involve games, problem-solving, discussions and excursions. SAFE COUNTRY By international standards, the UK is a safe country, with low levels of violence and street crime. In a recent survey (Creating Confidence International Student Safety Survey 2016) by the British Council, only a very small proportion of students had ever experienced a crime and the overwhelming majority felt that the UK is a very safe place to be. MULTICULTURAL, MULTI-FAITH COUNTRY UK is a multicultural, multi-faith country. Students will have the opportunity to experience a new culture and meet people from different backgrounds and countries who hold different views. 6

10 BLOOMSBURY, LONDON CATS College London CATS College London is a modern, well-equipped boarding school located in the heart of Central London in the district of Bloomsbury. The school was fully refurbished in 2011 and boasts some of the finest teaching facilities in the capital city, whilst being within easy reach of all of the exciting attractions London has to offer. About London London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, is a 21st-century city with history stretching back to Roman times. London is a leading global city in the arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, finance, healthcare, media, professional services, research and development, tourism and transportation. At its centre stand the imposing Houses of Parliament, the iconic Big Ben clock tower and Westminster Abbey, site of British monarch coronations. Across the Thames River, the London Eye observation wheel provides panoramic views of the South Bank cultural complex, and the entire city. Bloomsbury Age Range years old Available Date 30 Jun - 25 Aug (Premium Ensuite), 23 Jun - 25 Aug (Ensuite) Accommodation: Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: Residential, single or twin ensuite accommodation within walking distance at Premier House or at Piccadilly Court which is a short tube ride away from the school London Westminster, The British Museum, The West End, Piccadilly Circus & Leicester Square, London Science Museum, Oxford Street & Regent Street, Thames Walk, Tower of London & Tower Bridge, The Natural History Museum, Buckingham Palace & St James s Park, Trafalgar Square & the National Gallery, Covent Garden, Brighton & The Royal Pavilion, Cambridge & Kings College, Windsor & Windsor Castle Common room, Computer room, Self-access study centre, Wi-Fi access 7

11 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Welcome Evening & Ice Breaker Activities Monday Half Day Excursion: Group Leader-Led activities Westminster area Tuesday Half Day Excursion: British Culture Evening The British Museum Wednesday Half Day Excursion: The West End, Piccadilly Circus & Leicester Square Group Leader-Led activities Thursday Half Day Excursion: Riverboat Disco on the Thames London Science Museum Friday Half Day Excursion: Group Leader-Led activities Oxford Street & Regent Street Saturday Full day excursion: Cambridge, Walking Tour & Kings College Chill-out Evening including films, popcorn and board games Sunday Optional full day excursion (at extra cost) e.g Windsor & Windsor Castle or Group Leader Led Activities Group Leader-Led activities Monday Half Day Excursion: Thames Walk, Tower of London & Tower Bridge (no entrance) Group Leader-Led activities Tuesday Half Day Excursion: The Natural History Museum Quiz Night Wednesday Half Day Excursion: Buckingham Palace & St James s Park (no entrance) Group Leader-Led activities Thursday Half Day Excursion: Trafalgar Square & The National Gallery Riverboat Disco on the Thames Friday Half Day Excursion: Covent Garden Group Leader-Led activities Saturday Full day excursion: Brighton Walking Tour and The Royal Pavilion Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Departure 8

12 BRIGHTON Stafford House School of English Brighton Stafford House School of English Brighton is in a fantastic location just ten minutes walk from the city centre and 2 minutes from the beach. Brighton is a fashionable and cosmopolitan city, only an hour from London, located on England s south coast. This centre offer homestay accommodation with meals provided except lunches which are provided by the centre. About Brighton, East Sussex Brighton is an English seaside resort town. About an hour south of London by train, it s a popular day-trip destination. Its broad shingle beach is backed by amusement arcades and Regency-era buildings. Brighton Pier, in the central waterfront section, opened in 1899 and now has rides and food kiosks. The town is also known for its nightlife, arts scene, shopping and festivals. Brighton Age Range years old Available Date 16 Jun - 25 Aug Accommodation: Homestay, shared rooms Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: Brighton City, Brighton Royal Pavilion, Brighton Pier, Brighton Sealife Centre, Lewes and Lewes Castle, Newhaven Fort, Oxford Common room, Computer room, Interactive whiteboards, Library, Self-study room, outside courtyard, Wi-Fi access 9

13 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Evening with Host Family Monday Walking Tour of Brighton City Evening with Host Family Tuesday Sports or Arts & Crafts e.g Graffiti Design Welcome Party Wednesday Included Half Day Excursion: Lewes & Lewes Castle Evening with Host Family Thursday Local Visit: Brighton Royal Pavilion Movie & Pizza Night Friday Sports or Swimming at Brighton Outdoor Lido Evening with Host Family Saturday Full day excursion: London Walking Tour (no entrance included) Evening with Host Family Sunday Day with Host Family or Optional Excursion (at extra cost) e.g. Windsor & Windsor Castle Evening with Host Family Monday Half Day Excursion: Brighton Sealife Centre Evening with Host Family Tuesday Sports or Drama Workshop British Culture Night with Fish & Chips Wednesday Half Day Excursion: Newhaven Fort Evening with Host Family Thursday Half Day Excursion: Brighton Pier Disco or Arts & Crafts e.g. Jewellery Making Friday Sports or swimming at Brighton Outdoor Lido Evening with Host Family Saturday Full day excursion: Oxford Walking Tour (packed lunch; no entrance included) Evening with Host Family Sunday Departure 10

14 CAMBRIDGE CATS College Cambridge Found in 1952, CATs College has grown into one of the most innovative and successful independent education providers in the UK and USA. CATS College Cambridge is a leading sixth form college located in brand new facilities in the heart of the academic city of Cambridge. The world-famous Colleges of King s and Trinity is only a short walk away along the peaceful banks of the River Cam. About Cambridge, Cambridgeshire Cambridge is a university city, the county town of Cambridge shire and the home of the University of Cambridge, one of the top five universities in the world with over 800 years of history. Cambridge is a relatively small, but nevertheless bustling and vibrant urban location which is also located in close proximity to the countryside and a wide range of culturally significant locations; not only London. It is a very attractive place to visit and study the best of both worlds; city life and countryside diversity and serenity. Cambridge Age Range years old Available Date 30 Jun - 11 Aug Accommodation: Residential, single ensuite accommodation on campus at Elizabeth House (premium) or at Varsity House - 10 minutes walk from the campus Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: London, Oxford and Christ Church College, Cambridge and King s College, Stamford, Bury St Edmunds, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter Sports hall, Shared social areas, Library, Computer room, Learning resources centre, Wi-Fi access 11

15 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Welcome Evening & Ice Breaker Activities Monday Placement Test & Induction Lesson Half Day Excursion: punting in Cambridge & City Walking Tour Welcome Disco or Drama Workshop Tuesday Football Tournament, Who wants to be a Tennis or Drumming Workshop Millionnaire? Quiz Night Wednesday Half Day Excursion: International Night Bury St Edmunds (no entrance included) Thursday Volleyball, Badminton or Casino Night or English Arts & Crafts e.g. Conversation Club Jewellery Making Friday Mini Olympics Competition Beach Party Disco or Sports or Circus Skills Workshop Saturday Sunday Full Day Excursion: London, Walking Tour & Thames Sightseeing Boat Cruise Activities e.g. British Sports Day, or Sightseeing in Cambridge, or optional full day excursion (at extra cost) e.g Oxford, Walking Tour & Christ Church College Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games British Culture Evening Monday Half Day Excursion: Museum in Cambridge Fancy Dress Disco or Arts & Crafts e.g. Graffiti Design Tuesday Rugby, Basketball or Talent Show Preparation Cambridge s Got Talent! Talent Show Wednesday Half day excursion: Stamford (no entrance included) Gameshow Night Thursday Baseball, Table Tennis or Drama Workshop Murder Mystery Activity Friday Tribal Wars Competition or Arts & Crafts e.g. Mask Making Masked Ball Disco or Sports Saturday Full Day Excursion: Warwick, Walking Tour & Warwick Castle Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Departure 12

16 CANTERBURY Stafford House International Canterbury Stafford House International Canterbury is a modern, well-equipped centre just moments from the centre of Canterbury, the medieval city in the heart of Kent countryside. This centre offer both full-board residential and homestay option. About Canterbury, Kent Canterbury is an historic university city, close to the beaches of the south coast and within easy reach of London. The Canterbury area has been inhabited since prehistoric times which make the city a historic English cathedral city and UNESCO World Heritage Site l city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fun to explore and easy to walk around, Canterbury is a safe and comfortable place to study. Canterbury Age Range years old Available Date 9 Jun - 25 Aug (homestay), 16 Jun - 25 Aug (residence) Accommodation: Residential and homestay, 1 to 4 beds share or single ensuite accommodation within walking distance or homestay accommodation in shared rooms. Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: Canterbury City, Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury Heritage Museum London, Brighton, Cambridge, Oxford & Christ Church College, Leeds Castle Common room, Computer room, Self-access study centre, Wi-Fi access 13

17 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Welcome Evening / Evening with Host Family Monday Arrival Test and Induction Half Day Excursion: Games Night / Evening with Walking Tour of Canterbury City Host Family Tuesday Project Work Disco or Minions Night/ Evening with Host Family Wednesday Local Visit to Canterbury Cathedral Half Day Excursion: Leeds Castle Photo Scavenger Hunt/ Evening with Host Family Thursday Project Work Disco or Minions Night/ Evening with Host Family Friday Sports or Swimming Half Day Excursion: Canterbury s Got Talent! / Canterbury Cathedral Evening with Host Family Saturday Full day excursion: London Walking Tour (no entrance included) Quiz Night/ Evening with Host Family Sunday Optional full day excursion (at extra cost) e.g. Oxford & Christ ChurchCollege / Day with Host Family Monday Half Day Excursion: Games Night/ The Canterbury Tales Evening with Host Family Tuesday Project Work British Culture Evening/ Evening with Host Family Wednesday Half Day Excursion: Gameshow Night / Dover Castle Evening with Host Family Thursday Project Work Murder Mystery Activity / Evening with Host Family Friday Shopping in Canterbury Sport / Evening with Host Family Saturday Sunday Full Day Excursion: London, Brighton or Cambridge (no entrance included) Departure Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games/Evening with Host Family 14

18 EDINBURGH Napier University Edinburgh Napier University, originally Napier Technical College, was found in 1964 and gained university status in It has over 19,500 students, including those on-campuses in Scotland and others studying on transnational programmes abroad and online. Edinburgh Napier University is an internationally awardwinning institution that has been twice recognised by the Queen s Anniversary Prize for Higher and Further Education for its work in timber engineering, sustainable construction and wood science. About Edinburgh, capital city of Scotland Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland, is an ancient city with glorious views of the sea and hills and endless medieval alleyways and Georgian streets to explore. As the second most populous city in Scotland, Edinburgh is the annual venue of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland. Edinburgh is also the home of historic sites such as Edinburgh Castle and Arthur s Seat, one of the earliest known sites of human habitation in the area. Its many famous tourist attractions include the Royal Mile, the medieval Old Town, Holyrood Palace and many excellent museums. Edinburgh Age Range years old Available Date 2 Jun - 4 Aug Accommodation: Residential, single en-suite rooms arranged in apartments Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: Edinburgh city, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile & St Giles s Cathedral, Holyrood Park, Arthur s Seat, Edinburgh Waterfront, Ocean Terminal, Harry Potter Walking Tour & Grassmarket, Loch Lomond, Stirling National Galleries of Scotland, Royal Scottish Academy, Edinburgh Old Town & National Museum of Scotland, Scottish Parliament, Princes Street & the West End, Glasgow & Science Centre Sports hall, Common rooms, Modern classroom, Wi-Fi access 15

19 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Welcome Evening & Ice Breaker Activities Monday Half Day Excursion: Welcome Disco or City Walking Tour and Drama Workshop Entry to Edinburgh Castle Tuesday Sports or Arts and Crafts Ceilidh (Traditional Scottish Dancing) Wednesday Half Day Excursion: International Night The Royal Mile and St GIles Cathedral Thursday Half Day Excursion: Casino Night or Holyrood Park and Climb Arthur s Seat Drama Workshop Friday Half day excursion: Beach Party Disco or Edinburgh Waterfront and Shopping at Ocean Terminal Conversation Club Saturday Full Day Excursion: Harry Potter Walking Tour and Grassmarket Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Full day excursion: Loch Lomond Boat Cruise and Walking Tour of Stirling British Culture Evening Monday Half Day Excursion: National Galleries of Scotland and/or Royal Scottish Academy Gameshow Night Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Sightseeing Tour: Edinburgh Old Town and National Museum of Scotland Ceilidh (Traditional Scottish Dancing) Wednesday Sports or Drama Workshop Edinburgh s Got Talent! Talent Show Thursday Half Day Excursion: the Scottish Parliament Murder Mystery Activity Friday Half Day Excursion: Princes Street and the West End Masked Ball Disco or Conversation Club Saturday Full Day Excursion: Glasgow and Science Centre Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Departure 16

20 LETCHWORTH This is a Headstart bespoke summer school site. St. Francis College, Letchworth Founded in 1933, St Francis College is a boarding and day school for girls in Letchworth, Hertfordshire providing a modern education based on Christian principles. The aim of St Francis College is to provide a stimulating education, based on Christian values, which enables young women to thrive in an ever-changing global environment. St Francis College is within the Letchworth Conservation Area managing by Letchworth Garden City Heritage Foundation. About Letchworth, Hertfordshire Letchworth, officially Letchworth Garden City, is a town in Hertfordshire. As one of the world s first planned community and the first garden city, Letchworth had great influence on future town planning and the new towns movement in post-world War II era. Letchworth was one of the ancient parishes of Hertfordshire with parish church of St Mary the Virgin built in 12th or 13th century. Letchworth is also the home to one of the UK s largest colonies of black squirrels and muntjac deer. Age Range 9 16 years old Available Date 1 Jul 31 Jul Accommodation: Residential, dormitory style shared rooms Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: London, Westminster, London Eye and Thames River Cruise, Buckingham Palace, King s College and Punting, Tower Bridge and Shakespeare s Globe, British Museum, Natural History Museum, the Musical The Lion King, Windsor, the Cambridge University and Cambridge Coding Academy, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter Sports field, tennis and netball courts, theatre and chapel, common rooms and adjacent grassed sports/playing area, Prep PE hall 17

21 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Monday Arrival and Local Orientation Half Day Excursion: Letchworth Garden City - Dinner and Welcome Party Treasure Hunt/ Scavenger Hunt Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Art and Craft Hitchin Lavender Wednesday Full Day Excursion: London 1 Bridge Construction Challenge Thursday Half Day Excursion: Cambridge: King's College, Pictionary / Team Games Punting Friday One day coding course at Cambridge Coding Academy Karaoke Saturday Full Day Excursion: Warner Bros Studio: the Making of Harry Potter Harry Porter Movie Night Sunday Sport Day - Mini Olympics and Free Time UK Spelling Bee Monday Half Day Excursion: Grammar Auction Game Standalone Farm Visit Tuesday Tennis and Football UK Culture Quiz Coaching sessions Wednesday Full Day Excursion: London 2 Drama - Talent Show Rehearsal Thursday Half Day Excursion: St. Francis s Got Talent! Knebworth House & Dino Trail Talent Show Friday Supervised Free Time/ Presentations and Closing Shopping Ceremony Saturday Full Day Excursion: Windsor Castle Farewell Party Sunday Departure 18

22 MALVERN Malvern St James Girl s School Malvern St James Girl s School is a leading private boarding school located in the centre of the historic spa town of Malvern in Worcestershire, near to Oxford and Bath. The school has received the highest rating of Excellent in the independent schools Inspectorate Educational Quality Inspection, published in May About Malvern, Worcestershire Surrounded by the Cotswolds and rolling Malvern Hills, famous for its healing waters, Malvern has been popular with visitors for hundreds of years. Visitors can experience a town of beautiful Georgian architecture with an array of shops, cafés, restaurants, cinemas and theatres, as well as a traditionally British atmosphere. Malvern Age Range 9 17 years old Available Date 7 Jul - 4 Aug Accommodation: Residential, single, twin and small dormitory with shared bathrooms onsite Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: Malvern Town, Gloucester, Stratford-upon-Avon, London, Bath, Cheltenham, Worcester, Oxford & Christ Church College Common room, Computer room, Astroturf sports pitches, Extensive sports fields, Two sports halls, Indoor swimming pool, Tennis and squash courts, Art & Dance Studios, Wi-Fi access 19

23 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Welcome Evening & Ice Breaker Activities Monday Half Day Excursion: Welcome Disco or Walking Tour of Malvern Drama Workshop Town & Treasure Hunt Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Who wants to be a Gloucester Walking Tour (no entrance) Millionnaire? Quiz Night Wednesday Football, Tennis or Arts & International Night Crafts e.g. Jewellery Making Thursday Half Day Excursion: Casino Night or English Stratford-upon-Avon Walking Tour (no entrance) Conversation Club Friday Mini Olympics Competition Beach Party Disco or Sports or Drama Workshop Saturday Full day excursion: London & Walking Tour (with late return) Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Onsite Activities e.g. British Sports Day, or Sightseeing in Malvern, or optional Full Day Excursion (at extra cost) e.g. Bath, Walking Tour & The Roman Baths British Culture Evening Monday Volleyball, Badminton or Drumming Workshop Fancy Dress Disco or Arts & Crafts e.g. Graffiti Design Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Cheltenham Walking Tour (no entrance) Gameshow Night Wednesday Rugby, Basketball or Talent Show Preparation Malvern s Got Talent! Talent Show Thursday Half Day Excursion: Worcester Walking Tour (no entrance) Murder Mystery Activity Friday Tribal Wars Competition or Arts & Crafts e.g. Mask Making Masked Ball Disco or Sports Saturday Full Day Excursion: Oxford, Walking Tour & Christ Church College Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Departure 20

24 OAKHAM Oakham School Founded in 1584, Oakham School has established a reputation for academic and sporting excellence. The school buildings are located in very attractive surroundings around the town centre. Oakham itself is a beautiful market town in the countryside, near Cambridge and close to a fantastic reservoir for watersports. About Oakham, Rutland Oakham is a pretty, traditional English market town, bustling with activity. Rutland County Museum is a great place to get to know the fascinating history of the county and explore the exciting archaeology discoveries. Oakham is also home of the Oakham Castle, the longestrunning seat of justice in England and was first recorded being used as a court in Oakham Age Range 9 17 years old Available Date 7 Jul - 4 Aug Accommodation: Residential, single, twin and small dormitory with shared bathrooms onsite Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: Oakham Town, Rutland Water, Stamford, London, Thames Boat Cruise, Oxford & Christ Church College, Nottingham, Leicester, Cambridge & Kings College Common room, Computer room, Astroturf sports pitches, Extensive sports fields, Two sports halls, Indoor swimming pool, Tennis and squash courts, Wi-Fi access 21

25 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Welcome Evening & Ice Breaker Activities Monday Walking Tour of Oakham Town Welcome Disco or Drama & Treasure Hunt based Games Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Who wants to be a Rutland Water (raft building activity) Millionnaire? Quiz Night Wednesday Football, Tennis or Drama International Night Worskhop Thursday Half Day Excursion: Casino Night or English Stamford Walking Tour (no entrance) Conversation Club Friday Mini Olympics Competition Beach Party Disco or Sports or Drumming Workshop Saturday Sunday Full Day Excursion: London Walking Tour & Thames Boat Cruise (with late return) Onsite activities e.g. British Sports Day, or optional Full Day Excursion (at extra cost) e.g. Oxford Walking Tour & Christ Church College Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games British Culture Evening Monday Volleyball, Badminton or Circus Skills Workshop Fancy Dress Disco or Arts & Crafts e.g. Graffiti Design Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Nottingham Walking Tour (no entrance) Gameshow Night Wednesday Rugby, Basketball or Talent Show Preparation Oakham s Got Talent! Talent Show Thursday Half Day Excursion: Leicester Walking Tour (no entrance) Murder Mystery Activity Friday Tribal Wars Competition or Arts & Crafts e.g. Mask Making Masked Ball Disco or Sports Saturday Full Day Excursion: Cambridge, Walking Tour & Kings College Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Departure 22

26 WOODCOTE The Oratory School Woodcote is a thriving village with a good range of local amenities. The very impressive Oratory School stands in extensive park-life grounds with manicured gardens to the east of the main village and has outstanding facilities. On site facilities include: an art centre, golf course, basketball, indoor swimming pool, tennis courts (grass and normal), real tennis and cricket pitch. About Woodcote, Oxfordshire Woodcote is a village South Oxfordshire locates in the Chiltern Hills, and the highest part of the village is 600 feet (180 m) above sea level. Woodcote is a historical village first documented in 1109, when it was a dependent settlement of South Stoke. The village has good road connections with easy access to Reading, Henley and Oxford and within easy traveling distance to London. Woodcote Age Range 9 17 years old Available Date 7 Jul - 4 Aug Accommodation: Residential, single, twin and small dormitory with shared bathrooms on campus. Key Excursion and Outing: Facility: Canterbury City, Canterbury Cathedral, Canterbury Heritage Museum London, Brighton, Cambridge, Oxford & Christ Church College, Leeds Castle Common room, Computer room, Art centre, Golf course, Two tennis courts (grass and normal), Indoor swimming pool, Real tennis and cricket pitch, Wi-Fi access 23

27 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Sunday Arrival and Local Orientation Welcome Evening & Ice Breaker Activities Monday Campus Tour & Treasure Hunt Welcome Disco or Drama based Games Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Who wants to be a Reading Walking Tour (no entrance) ) Millionnaire? Quiz Night Wednesday Football, Tennis or Drumming International Night Workshop Thursday Half Day Excursion: Casino Night or English Oxford Walking Tour (no entrance) Conversation Club Friday Mini Olympics Competition Beach Party Disco or Sports or Drama Workshop Saturday Full Day Excursion: London Walking Tour & Thames Boat Cruise Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Onsite activities e.g. British Sports Day, or optional Full Day Excursion (at extra cost) e.g. Brighton, Walking Tour & The Royal Pavilion British Culture Evening Monday Volleyball, Badminton or Circus Skills Workshop Fancy Dress Disco or Arts & Crafts e.g. Graffiti Design Tuesday Half Day Excursion: Windsor Walking Tour (no entrance) Gameshow Night Wednesday Rugby, Basketball or Talent Show Preparation Woodcote s Got Talent! Talent Show Thursday Half Day Excursion: Winchester Walking Tour (no entrance) Murder Mystery Activity Friday Tribal Wars Competition or Arts & Crafts e.g. Mask Making Masked Ball Disco or Sports Saturday Full Day Excursion: Cambridge, Walking Tour & Kings College Chill-out Evening including Films, Popcorn and Board Games Sunday Departure 24

28 Singapore 25

29 SINGAPORE 26

30 WHY SINGAPORE? Singapore is in close proximity compared to other English-speaking countries. It is 4 flight hours away from Hong Kong. Singapore is in the same time zone as Hong Kong, therefore, no time adaptation is needed. SAFE PLACE Singapore is known for its strict laws which have made the country one of the safest places in the world. Such strict laws have also created a clean and well-behaving city. English is Singapore s primary medium of education. 75% of its population speaks English. 27

31 The education system of Singapore adopts the western ideologies as well as methodologies to encourage the independent learning among students. MULTICULTURAL Singapore is multicultural. Religion, culture, language and ethnicity are extensively diverse. TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT As a very small island with very few natural resources, Singapore has successfully developed into a well-planned city with admirable technological advancement and a strong and well-educated workforce favourably recognised by the world. 28

32 SINGAPORE S.T.E.W. S.T.E.M. Singapore is positioned as a center for technology, design and innovation. The tour is designed to let students see and experience how Singapore leverages on technology to solve national issues relating to water and land constraints. The tour will showcase Singapore s forward urban development concepts and demonstrate how careful planning is required to preserve cultural diversity and to integrate nature into the urban landscape. During the tour, students will be encouraged to look at the world from different perspectives and their thoughts will be challenged. There will be many opportunities for hands-on experience with the latest technology. Age Range 9 16 years old Available Date 6 Jul 13 Aug Accommodation residential in Shelton College International 29

33 CENTER FOR TECHNOLOGY, DESIGN & INNOVATION Learning Themes STEM How Singapore applies Science and Technology in shaping the nation s environment City Planning and Design: Water Technology: Urban Farming: Digital Media and Story Telling: Drone Technology: Prototyping: Students will learn how Singapore is able to integrate nature and technology with rapid urban development to achieve a high standard of modern living Understand the different methods Singapore uses, in particular the use of new technology to overcome challenges posed by water demand Discover how Singapore adopts new urban farming techniques to provide future methods of urban food production Students will produce their own video presentation detailing their learning journey and through the process develop creativity and storytelling skills Students will be taught the science behind drones and have opportunity to pilot them Students will learn how technologies like 3D printing are used in new product design and rapid prototyping 30

34 Main Outing and Activities Understanding Singapore s urban landscape, urban planning philosophy and heritage preservation at the Urban Redevelopment Authority Learn the heritage and the architects behind Singapore s development, view art and design thinking concepts at the Singapore National Design Centre. Bask in the emanating youthful vibes at Bugis Street, provide students with a glimpse of the leisure life of an average Singaporean teen Exchange programme with tertiary students at Ngee Ann Polytechnic University with hands on 3D modeling and design using Autodesk Tinker CAD, campus and S.T.E.M. departments tour. Learn about Desalination Technology at NEWater Treatment Plant and NEWater Visitor Centre Kallang Water Way kayaking and waterway survey experience Journey through the Gardens by the Bay and learn how to balance city and nature with technology, with Night Trek and picnic at Super Tree Grove Explore urban farming technology with food Science and Technology lesson and cooking workshop at Citizen Farm Explore ocean technology at S.E.A. Aquarium in Sentosa with Crane Dance night show Drone design and piloting class with group drone video footage to be shot at strategic drone approved fly zones. Learn application on media creation and editing, video presentation and broadcasting on preferred social media channels. 31

35 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Monday Arrival in Singapore Transfrer to Shelton Orientation and Goal Setting International College Tuesday Urban Redevelopment Authority Guided Tour Red Dot Design Museum and Bugis Street Heritage Tour Group Reflection and Learning Video Taking Tutorial Wednesday Tertiary Exchange at Ngee Ann Polytechnic: 3D Modeling and Design Challenge Introduction to Drones and Drone Flight Challenge Group Reflection and Learning Thursday Visit To NEWater Treatment Facility with NEWater Tour and Kallang Waterway Kayaking Experience Panoramic Video Capture on President Sheers Bridge Picnic at the Gardens By The Bay Supertrees Friday Visit to Citizen Farm and Project Cookout Resorts World Sentosa and S.E.A. Aquarium Tour Night Show at Sentosa: Crane Dance Saturday Tertiary Exchange and School Tour at Ngee Ann Polytechnic S.T.E.M. Departments Application on Media Creation and Team Video Presentation Broadcast onto Youtube Channel Sunday Closing Ceremony Departure 32

36 SINGAPORE DISCOVERY This programme provide students the opportunity to discover and gain insights into Singapore s local culture and heritage. Students will experience skills training that Singapore schools use to develop leadership, teamwork and communication effectiveness. The focus is experiential outdoor activities. Students will explore Singapore s unique urban design and heritage sites, and engage in local adventure programmes. EXPERIENTIAL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Age Range 7 12 years old Available Date 6 Jul 13 Aug 33 Accommodation Dormitories at Shelton College International

37 HERITAGE OF SINGAPORE Learning Themes Discovery: Explore the heritage of Singapore and achieve whole person development Culture Exploration: Experience the Nature: Personal Development: Ethics of Teamwork: Discover Singapore s local culture and heritage Experience and explore the nature and adventure in the city Develop independence and responsibility to self and the surrounding Understanding the importance and value of working as a team 34

38 Main Outing and Activities Understanding Singapore s urban landscape, urban planning philosophy and heritage preservation at Singapore s Urban Redevelopment Authority Centre. Design thinking concepts and showcase of top designs at the National Design Centre Explore the historical and cultural significance of Singapore Botanic Gardens Opportunity to explore, taste and replicate local culinary creations that have been borne out of the amalgamation of local cultures with Heritage Taste at Toa Payoh (one of Singapore s first townships) Experience the daily life of Singaporean s from acquiring local ingredients engaging in a project cook out session with local students. Explore the Kallang Basin waterway expedition from Sport Hub Waterway Walk through the park connector networks through to the Marina Barrage Excursion to Gardens by the Bay and learn how to balance city and nature with technology, with Night trek and picnic at Super Tree Grove Trek up Mount Faber (Singapore s highest peak) through to Henderson Wave, the highest pedestrian bridge in Singapore Bask in the emanating youthful vibes at Bugis Street, provide students with a glimpse of the leisure life of an average Singaporean teen Explore Sentosa and S.E.A. Aquarium with guided tour to gain understanding of the importance of environmental and animal preservation 35 Develop independence and understand the importance of teamwork with Pipe Bow Archery and I am a conqueror race

39 Sample Itinerary Morning Afternoon Evening Monday Arrival in Singapore Transfrer to Shelton Orientation and Goal Setting International College Tuesday Urban Redevelopment Authority Guided Tour National Design Centre and Singapore Botanical Garderns Group Reflection and Learning Wednesday Singapore Heritage Taste at Toa Payoh, Immersion with Local Students Project Cookout and Activity Immersion with Local Students Group Reflection and Learning Thursday Waterway Expedition from Sport Hub Waterway, Kallang Basin Walk through Park Connector Networks through to the Marina Barrage Picnic at the Gardens By The Bay Supertrees Friday Mount Faber and Henderson Wave Pipe Bow Archery Programme and Bugis Street Heritage Tour Free and Easy at National Library Board / City University Campus Saturday Land and Sea Expedition: I am a Conqueror Race Sentosa Exploration Race Resorts World Sentosa and S.E.A. Aquarium Tour Night show at Sentosa: Crane Dance Sunday Closing Ceremony Departure 36

40 INFORMATION City vs Countryside UK and Singapore have a lot to offer. No matter whether students are staying in a city location or at the countryside, they will be awed by the scenery, history and architecture of their surroundings. Well organised transportation can ensure students reap the benefits of a fruitful experience disregarding where they are based. City Countryside Benefits Proximity to major landmarks, museums and attractions, convenient and easy to get to them. Students experience the quiet and tranquil country landscape and lifestyle. Experience the dynamic city life. Visit local landmarks and understand local history which students may not do if living afar. More urban-centric which reflects students own lives and experiences. Gives students a chance to experience something different. Exposure to a broad range of cultures, accents and Englishes. Exposes students to regional accents and culture that they would not normally have access to. 37

41 Homestay vs Residential Homestay (UK only) Homestay accommodation is selected carefully. Each of our schools has a dedicated member of staff to manage our network of homestay hosts and our students in accommodation. Residential We have been operating summer centres at multiple sites for many years. In the UK, these sites are university or college campuses and traditional boarding schools; For Singapore, the accommodation chosen is residential at Shelton International College, a well-equipped and functional campus. Homestay Residential Benefits Gives students an opportunity to interact with their host and family and practice their English. There is arguably greater motivation to speak English because the students must use the language to make friends with others who share common interests. Gain a better understanding of local life and culture. Students from many different countries and cultures mix together and benefit by becoming more international : arguably more useful than knowledge about English life and culture in today s world. Students will be able to travel to school with their roommate / housemate and also have the chance to share information on each other s culture. A wide range of facilities onsite. The students have considerably more freedom than in a residential situation, which encourages independence. A more controlled and supervised setting, with 24 hours onsite Staff who live at the residence, alongside centre manager, academic manager and activities manager available at any time to provide assistance and guidance. Students will have exposure to more authentic English with natural models of pronunciation along with idiomatic and colloquial language. Students will have a chance to experience a more global English which may be more relevant in today s world. 38

42 Homestay vs Residential Homestay Residential Students will have A single room or a shared room. Single bedrooms or shared dormitory-style bedrooms. Breakfast and an evening meal, and a packed lunch will be provided for days when they will be at schools or on a full-day excursion. Breakfast, lunch and evening meal, or a packed lunch will be provided when students are off-site taking part in an excursion. To share the bathroom with their roommate / housemate and the family. Private bathroom or shared bathroom depending on room type. Local family as their host, who will treat students as if they were part of the family. Dedicated members of staff based onsite. In their room, a bed, wardrobe / storage space, a desk and lamp, among other things. Their bedroom on a corridor with other students of a similar age and of the same gender, locked at night for their safety and security. 39

43 Closed vs Open Group UK and Singapore are popular and well-visited locations in the world for study tours. Well-run centres are in particularly high demand. Students have the option to come as a closed group or to join groups of international students to enhance their experience. Closed (Students form into an exclusive cohort) Open (Students join an existing group of students) Benefits Students know each other and are comfortable interacting with each other Give students the opportunity to interact with people from a variety of cultural backgrounds and make international friends Schedule is more customized with more customized contents Pre-designed schedule and content with maximizing benefits for all in mind Students come from the same cultural background, little adaptation needed Rapport within the group will be strong, facilitating more conducive learning. Students from diverse background come to learn together, ability to adapt will be strengthened Maximise students chance of using English Students will be exposed to many varieties of English and a wide range of accents More introspective learning environment More authentic learning environment 40

44 THE PROCESS: FROM START TO FINISH September Information Day School Visits School Enquiries October - November Tender Writing and Submission School Enquiries School Visits December Confirmation of Tour Student Enrolment Parents Meetings Confirmation of student list and details on dietary requirement and health concerns Booking of tickets to secure preferred time and flight January Confirmation and Finalisation of Itinerary Feburary - April Regular update on accomodation, pairing of students and travel logistics May Pre-departure Meeting Placement Test Submission of Writings June Pre-departure School Preparation Setting up of Instagram July - August Tour August Student Survey and Analysis Collection of performance feedback from school Submission of report on the tour 41

45 What did the students say? I really like the activities such as Windsor Castle, Changing of Guards and quiz night... I love the food and the lessons with the teachers. The SAOs (social activities officers) are really kind and helpful. I truly learnt about the culture, history and education there. We went to a lot of places and saw some famous colleges in the U.K. My host family was very nice to us. I would like to join again! I love all of the sightseeing parts in the trip; it really helped me to learn more about England/ London s culture. Also, the staff from Headstart Group was really helpful. Overall, all the activities were worth joining and they really helped me develop my confidence in speaking in English. Moreover, learning the culture of the UK was one of main reasons why I really like the trip. The school chosen by the Headstart Group was fantastic. The teachers and students were kind and the food was tasty. I like the activities and attractions. They were all very interesting and fantastic. The teachers and the hosts were very kind to us. 42

46 What did the students say? It was so great that I can social with different students from different countries. Also, the Lion King musical was stunning with their costumes and stage designs. The activities gave me knowledge about the UK and lifestlye of local people such as what they will do in the holiday. I think that the activities we did in the school were really interesting. The people there were very kind and they made the lesson very fun. I learned more about the culture of Cambridge, England through this trip and this was the best 14 days I have ever experienced in my life. I missed Cambridge a lot and I would really like to go there again for my future studies! This trip is unforgettable and every activity or excursions made me fall in love with the lifestyle there. It made me feel so relaxed and I love how they teach. I EXPERIENCED A LOT TOO! 43

47 What did the teachers say? Dannie is caring and good at problem-solving. She was assertive enough to seek clarifications when there were uncertainties and asked the staff to do their best to fulfill our needs. I really appreciate Ricky s effort in organising the tour. He is very helpful in meeting our needs and solving the problems arose in the tour. He always takes the initiative to handle the matters in relation to the tour. Thanks for his tremendous help indeed. Phoebe is a responsible leader. She tried her best to solve problems, such as contacting the boss of the cleaners to change the bedsheets, arranging to see the doctors when our students were sick, ensuring laundry services were provided for our students. She also helped our teachers move the heavy suitcases downstairs. She is caring and kind to both teachers and students. 44

48 HEADSTART TRAVEL & LEARN SCHOLARSHIP EVERY STUDENT SHOULD HAVE THE CHANCE TO GO OUT About the Scholarship Headstart Group believes knowledge does not only come from textbook. In this modern age, every student should have the opportunity to go out, see the world and explore. To make this possible for students, we are pleased to invite qualified students to apply for the Travel & Learn Scholarship. For school year , we will offer up to TEN scholarships worth $150,000 to selected students so they can participate in our study tours and benefit from them. Distribution of the scholarships is as follows: Study tour to UK: Study tour to Singapore: 5 recipients, HK$20,000 each 5 recipients, HK$10,000 each Eligibility 1. Students must be enrolled in a study tour from the Headstart Group 2. Nominated by the attending school Each school can nominate ONE applicant only 3. Outstanding academic and discipline record 4. Continuous active participation in extracurricular activities or community service 5. Two recommendations, one must be from the attending school 45

49 How to Apply The following documents need to be submitted as an application package. Applications can be downloaded from the Headstart Group website ( Complete the application form, only typed applications will be accepted and considered. Two (2) recommendations, one must be from the attending school. An English essay of no more than 500 words for secondary school applicants and 300 words for primary school applicants that clearly describes your expectation from joining the study tour, and how the Headstart Travel & Learn Scholarship will assist you in reaching your goals. (Essays exceeding word limits will not be considered.) Applications that are incomplete or late due to postal delays, transmittal by third parties, or other circumstances will not be considered. Applications are accepted by mail only. Use of Scholarship The scholarship may only be used on the study tour organised by Headstart Group and the attending school in the school year of Awardees are not permitted to defer the Scholarship. Headstart Group will consider new applications the following year, no preferential consideration will be given to the second application. Awardees may accept additional grants and scholarships from other sources. Timetable Deadline of application: Official Announcement of Result: 30 th November, th January,

50 FAQ 1. What guarantees do I have as a client? The study tour is fully endorsed by Headstart Group, a leading name in the education industry in Hong Kong and Macau. Headstart Group is renowned for its excellent quality English educational services provided to kindergartens, primary and secondary schools, and universities. 2. Do I receive any information in advance about the accommodation? Yes, Headstart Group will send a homestay profile or details of the residence as part of the confirmation information approximately two weeks prior to departure. 3. How does Headstart Group ensure my child will be happy in their host family? Headstart Group will endeavour to match students with suitable host where applicable, based on their background and age and any special requests that are submitted. 4. What if my child is not happy with their host family or residence? In the unlikely event that a student is not happy with the homestay host or residence, we will speak to the student and group leader to try and understand the reasons behind it. We will then take the appropriate course of action depending on the circumstances. 5. Is it safe for my child to visit central London? Headstart Group strives to ensure that all students are in the safest possible hands. We have been delivering study tour to young people in HK for many years now, and we ensure that full risk assessments are carried out prior to all excursions and activities. 47