Teaching, in India!

Arriving in India from England on Saturday 19^th May 2012 was a massive but exciting culture shock.  Firstly I was the only English person in the airport of Kerala, which was a strange experience!  The journey to Fort Cochin was fascinating; there were so many things to see including several cows walking aimlessly through the traffic.  My ears were filled with the hustle and bustle of traffic and engine horns.  Honking your horn in India is a staple part of any journey no matter the distance.  A honk of the horn acts as a warning to others WITHOUT aggression unlike in England!  The sun had set by the time I reached the house, which was going to be my home for the next two weeks.  Everybody kindly made me feel welcome that I instantly felt settled.  The next couple of days were spent exploring Fort Cochin and being trained by the GVI staff to prepare us for our first day of teaching.¨

Tuesday 22^nd May 2012 felt like my first day at school all over again, I was prepared but nervous!  Now looking back how could I have been nervous to teach these beautiful, energetic and eager children who want to learn so much and have a never ending urge to please you (their teacher)?!  To know a child is learning and growing as a person because of the impact of your teaching and presence is extremely rewarding.  It is a feeling that I cannot explain but that you will have to come and experience for yourself. 

/ Nicola

Teaching, in India!