International Changemakers
Our Mission
The students of the Derby High School are working in partnership with a range of stakeholders to enhance the Science provision at FED Unified Learning Centre near Khao Lak in Southern Thailand. They will also support the UN Sustainable Development Goals through their work with endangered turtles, the local community as it recovers from the 2004 tsunami, and by supporting and promoting ecotourism as a sustainable development tool in Thailand.
Through this project they are developing as individuals, and working as members of a team to enhance their own skills, whilst learning about, and contributing to the sustainability of both Khao Lak and Bury. They will share their learning across the school and wider community.
This opportunity is open to every student in Year 10, irrespective of their economic situation, as we aim to fully fund each place. Students who apply are put through a rigorous interview process, with those who can demonstrate their commitment, skill and passion being successful.
What Do Students Gain?
In 2024 our International Changemakers were pioneers, and came back more engaged with their environment, aware of injustice and driven to make a difference. Individually, many showed great resilience to overcome personal challenges throughout the project.
Selected students develop strong communication skills as they work with the Burmese migrant children, who often do not speak English. With many showing real empathy with the plight of the Rohingya people, and forming lasting friendships.
Our students also work with the Thai Military to actively promote turtle conservation, including carrying out a beach clean. They will visit Khao Sok National Park to engage with a truly sustainable elephant sanctuary, where they support the planting of food for the elephants, as well as enjoying the change to feed them.
They will also immerse themselves in local culture, visiting Khuekkhak Temple and trying a variety of local food (including crocodile!)
Our students also work with the Thai Military to actively promote turtle conservation, including carrying out a beach clean. They will visit Khao Sok National Park to engage with a truly sustainable elephant sanctuary, where they support the planting of food for the elephants, as well as enjoying the change to feed them.
They will also immerse themselves in local culture, visiting Khuekkhak Temple and trying a variety of local food (including crocodile!)
Watch their story:
//www.youtube.com/embed/Jvy8D2kMixU#t=0.5
Latest News & Updates
Our amazing Year 9 DofE volunteers & International Changemakers took the lead in organising a fantastic Comic Relief fundraiser, packed with fun. From Wear It Red, to a delicious cake sale from our STEAM shed, to Name the Bear @DofE @comicrelief #ComicRelief #MakingADifference pic.twitter.com/fbtYSTAbab
— The Derby High, Bury (@derbyhighbury) March 22, 2025
Well done to our International Changemakers for displaying tremendous resilience 🚘 cleaning 22 cars in just 3 hours 🧽 Thank you to Friends of The Derby volunteers for your assistance! pic.twitter.com/Ggrz8ZtJFp
— The Derby High, Bury (@derbyhighbury) March 17, 2025
What a sensational day our International Changemakers have had. Invited by Prof’ Lynne Bianchi and The Great Science Share team we joined The Great Shout out for Science in London … let’s see if we have made a difference!@GreatSciShare @JamesFrith @GlassSellersCo pic.twitter.com/4kAbRzFsjY
— The Derby High, Bury (@derbyhighbury) March 11, 2025
International Changemakers Podcast
How Can You Help?
Sponsorship
We are looking for sponsors who are willing to support the students in reaching their target. A graded package of benefits is available, including through social media, branded clothing and advertising space.
Promotion
Please follow the students on their journey from appointment to Thailand, and beyond through our social media accounts, and the school website. Please share this far and wide to raise the profile of our work.
Guidance & Mentoring
Are you willing to offer some time to help guide some of our students through the challenges of the year? We are looking for professionals who have time to mentor and guide our team.
Fundraising
Please get involved in our fundraising events, which will be promoted through social media and the school. These include Afternoon Tea at Bury Town Hall, quizzes, bushtucker trials and car wash events.
For further details please contact:
lprovoost@thederbyhighschool.co.uk
shardicre@thederbyhighschool.co.uk
