India - Teaching in Kalimpong - Darjeeling

Volunteer Comments

Iain Reynolds (New Rise Academy)
So far everything has been perfect and very enjoyable. Driving up the Himalayas was breath taking and far more beautiful than anything I had imagined. I have not felt homesick because everyone has been so friendly. Sunitas cooking is delicious. The kids and school are great. There are a few trouble makers but once I got to know them I saw how friendly and sweet they actually are. Lesson plans are going fine but I think the football is my forte.

Rob Anstey (RIBS)
Everything I have is now covered in chalk dust so I reckon I'm a proper teacher now :-) My accommodation arrangements are fine and Pramod and his family have been very welcoming. The area is really very nice and when the sun is out the views can be stunning. I'm enjoying my placement very much although lesson planning is proving to be hard work. When the kids beg you to continue the lesson after the period is over it's very rewarding.

Gavin Milne (New Rise Academy)
Things are going really well in India. Learning lots and really enjoying teaching the little-uns - they are a delight. The place is stunning as well - Kanchenjunga in the background - wow!

Graham Parkinson (Lotus Academy)
Volunteers are totally involved in the village life so you learn about other worlds. The schools really need volunteers. It gives the children a link with a bigger world as well as giving them the opportunity to learn good English.

Elizabeth James (UK), Alpha Nursery June 2005
We stayed at the school with NB and his family. He and his wife were unbelievably welcoming and made us feel at home immediately. I had an incredible time with your programme. Financially it was more agreeable than other organisations, and more personal I think which I like. It was an amazing experience for me, I learnt so much and felt very privileged to be there, and at the same time I hope I gave something to them too, and helped them in some way.

Jessie Chandler and Molly Bird (Alpha Nursery School) June 2004
"We organised an afternoon of sports and games once a week, when the children and teachers would all go to the sports ground. Both children and teachers loved this, and we felt it very important to encouraging learning outside of the classroom. The children's interaction with each other and the teachers outside of the classroom was very important, and had great results. You charge your volunteers a minimal fee, unlike many other Gap Year organisations. We really felt we were sent where help was needed. The small size of the company gives it a personal feel.