This was our first day of teaching at our pre-school in Hithathiya. We were welcomed by 15 excitable children, of whom a few were a little overwhelmed by the six giant strangers entering the room! However as we began our arts and crafts activities the children soon relaxed and became at ease in our company. We were surprised by how quickly the kids picked up English phrases and songs such as ‘row row row your boat’! All in all a very successful first morning and we were excited to get to know all the characters in the group.Lunchtime brought yet more food at the Sarvodaya society Secretary’s house and more laughs at our expense as we struggled with the spicy curries on offer! Once again we were overwhelmed by the tremendous hospitality of all at the village.

After lunch we began our after school club and we were astounded by the volume of kids that attended. We ended up with around fifty children aged from 4 – 16. Outside we set up various sporting activities such as volleyball, cricket and rugby. Although it was a challenge to teach and entertain given the age range and differing English abilities, between us we managed to make sure the afternoon was enjoyed by one and all.

Overall the day was a great success and we felt as though we made the first steps in becoming part of the Hithathiya community.