Sri Lanka - Teaching in Pilimathalawa

Volunteer Comments

Sam Massey from UK (Urapola Temple - Jul-Aug 2004)
"With the three illiterate students I worked for an hour a day, just with them on the alphabet and practised sounding out the spellings of basic words. What they seemed to like the most was teaching me the Sinhala at the same time, and they got really enthusiastic, turning up early, wanting more time and suggesting words they wanted to spell. Making friends with my students was definitely the best part of the trip for me"

Colin Tate and Lucy Murray from UK (Urapola Temple and Pilimathalawa Primary school - Jan-Apr 04)
"Working in countries such as Sri Lanka gives you the opportunity to gain a great understanding of the people, culture, lifestyle and problems faced in the developing world. Teaching is extremely rewarding - it is wonderful to see improvements in your students' ability and enthusiasm.

The people we came into contact with (not just students, but families and teachers) gain through contact with native English speakers. They gain an insight into western culture and problems and come to realise that life in the west comes complete with its own, different, sets of problems and challenges."

Douglas King from UK (Urapola Temple - Feb to June 2003)
"There cannot be a friendlier place in the world. The New Year festival is in full swing and lasts 4 days. My temple is hosting a big celebration. I have been asked to contribute some English music, song and dance! Only 2 more weeks and I shall be leaving. I can't quite believe it, however, I shall look forward to my return in November. It has been challenging, enjoyable and often fun working with different groups, and living with monks within a temple compound has given me a unique insight into the culture and life here."