Hackney in India...the adventure so far!

A huge well done to Keann, Jacqueline, Charlie, Jade, Deborah, Ryanne and Ruth, who have all completed their first week of teaching in a Rajasthani primary school! Each teaching pair taught between 7-10 pupils per grade. The numbers of children attending school at this time of year tends to decrease due to monsoon season; the roads are difficult to navigate and as a consequence pupils can struggle to get to school. 

'Day three of teaching was the best! They learnt everything and were always smiling!' Deborah (14). Deborah and Ruth teaching 3rd grade.

Many of the group members were initially uncertain about how their first ever teaching experience would fair. The young people found lesson planning and making teaching aids a challenge and time consuming without knowing the abilities and understanding of the children in their class. Keann (15) describes, 'at the start of the week I was very scared of how the teaching was going to go. Now I find it very exciting and I'm eager. I found it challenging but now I know the children and their abilities, I find it fun'. 

Keann teaching 2nd grade.

The children who attend Basti Ram's linked projects in Rajasthan never fail to engage those who come to spend time teaching them. 'The children are all so lovely, they appreciate things a lot more than us. But I think they've helped me more than I've helped them with their welcoming atmosphere and smiles' Charlie (17). Each teaching pair has spoken about experiencing the endearing enthusiasm of their pupils, and it is this which motivates each individual through the times when they may be feeling challenged. 

Charlie & Ryanne teaching 4th grade.

As a group the young women have developed in confidence and settled well into the differences of Indian culture to that of their own. They have found their footing with the routine and in living harmoniously with one another. Jennifer, a member of The London Borough of Hackney staff team describes this experience, 'I like to see the progression in the group. We came to India really nervous, not too sure and really concerned that we do the right thing. Even when there's moments the young people have not planned for, they still try. Their confidence has grown and I like that. And, them learning to take constructive criticism in their stride and putting it into positive action. The group has evolved and that's what I love'.

But it hasn't all been work and no play! The group have enjoyed early morning roof top yoga, restaurant dining by Lake Pichola and Bagore-ki-Haveli, a traditional Rajasthani cultural show. After a challenging, exciting and emotional first week the young women from Hackney move into their second week of teaching. Please continue to follow our blog and their progress...

Thank you for reading my blog and showing your support for Basti Ram. If you would like to find out more about the innovative work we do or how you can get involved please visit www.bastiram.org email bastiram.uk@gmail.com or call +44 (0) 7515 857 865

Katherine
Youth Development Officer