Day Two at School

Hi all,

It's good to see so many people joining the blog, thank you for your lovely messages!

After another early start (yes I am tired already!), we set off in our rickety van to school. We were greeted by lots of happy, smiley faces. We stepped off the bus and started teaching at 8.30am. The children had already done one hour of cleaning in school - I like the idea of Poppy and David sweeping the floor before I arrive to school!

Our first lesson was to design a t-shirt. The children were reluctant at first, but when they got started, they produced some beautiful work. We gave them felt tips and crayons to use, this seemed to be something new and excited the children a lot.

In the next lesson, we introduced traditional tales to the class. We read 'Three Billy Goats Gruff', which they loved. We all designed our own trolls and made 'Wanted' posters. Again, the children found this a challenge but enjoyed using their imaginations.

We then repeated these lessons with the second P5 class. This was much more difficult. There were children of the age of 15 who found it a chhallenge to share their ideas.

The teachers are really beginning to relax with us. I am absolutelyblown away by the children's happiness when they are arriving to school with no shoes, ripped clothes and pencils that are only a few centimetres long. They have to walk several miles to school and have no lunch provided for them. Most children play netball and football at lunchtime rather than walking home for dinner. The school canteen is a little hut with very little food in it!

I have had lots of amazing experiences already, the only downside is the toilets. The school toilets really need a sprinkle of Mrs Nolan and possibly even a toilet pan! Squatting is not for me! Too much information?!

This evening, we have had a lovely walk in Jinja town centre where we have seen birds that are bigger than people! Beans and rice are also delicious!

Off to bed soon.

Thanks for reading.

Love to all

Claire.x