A - Z Children's Charity

 

Rebecca (top left) with her teaching partner, Fiona, and pupils of Trust Future Future Academy in Nansana, Uganda.

Last Summer, Rebecca Fortune, a B. Ed student in St. Patrick's College, spent three weeks in Uganda. This is her account:

Hi Everyone!

I'm a final year student teacher in St. Patrick's College.  Last July 2010 I went on the A-Z Children’s Charity volunteer programme for 3 weeks.  It was an unforgettable experience!

As a student teacher it is extremely worthwhile.  I was nervous about the thoughts of teaching in Africa as I had never done something like it before. The good thing is that you team teach with a qualified teacher so not all the pressure is on you! Professionally, I learned so much like ideas for lessons from the other volunteer teachers and how to teach English to children who don't have English as their first language. Most of all, I gained so much confidence in myself and in my teaching, I did not feel as nervous throughout my September teaching practice.  Personally, I will never forget walking into the Ugandan children's classroom every day, the children jumping out of their seats cheering and clapping, their faces lighting up at the prospect of us teaching them.  The Ugandan staff accepted us into the school as part of the family, they were so grateful to have us there.

A-Z Children's Charity really looked after the volunteer team throughout the programme.  On our arrival weekend the charity staff eased us into our new surroundings and the different culture.  They gave us a great orientation including a tour of the village and even a musical performance of local song and dance.

Another advantage of this volunteer programme is that our days’ activities were varied.  As well as teaching, we did things like library outreaches to other schools, building a house for a vulnerable family and working in a home for abandoned babies.  It’s not all hard work though - we had the weekends off, so I got to go on a safari trip and I also went white water rafting on the River Nile!

I really recommend this programme.  I turned 21 in Uganda and let's just say my Ugandan 21st birthday party is something I will never forget!

Go for it! :)

Rebecca

Volunteering in Uganda: three-week placements in summer 2011

 

Do you have three weeks to spare in July / August 2011?

Would you like to teach in a Ugandan school, help build a house or work on community projects?

Would you like to gain an authentic experience of life in a developing country?

Would you like to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children?


A-Z Children's Charity is looking for enthusiastic, self-motivated and flexible people to travel to Uganda in summer 2011 to work on a three-week placement. Last year, three B Ed students volunteered their time to this charity. We need volunteers to help us achieve our mission:

To provide education and health care for AIDS orphans and vulnerable children in Uganda.

 

Through sustainable projects, we endeavour to empower people to work their way out of the cycle of poverty they have been born into.
This is an opportunity for you to develop new personal qualities and professional skills. A-Z volunteers can expect to experience authentic Ugandan culture, make new friends and gain a new perspective on the world.

We know no one can change the world in three weeks but your contribution can make a big impact in some of Uganda's poorest communities.

For further information contact Miriam Lewis, Volunteer Coordinator:

Call: 01 5424178
Call / text: 087 6445617
Email: miriam@azkids.ie
Web: www.azkids.ie

Registered Charity No: CHY 15459

 

Last Updated: Friday August 05 2011