Sunday, 23 October 2011
Saturday, 15 October 2011
Thursday, 13 October 2011
Day 15- home!
The sun rose over France.
We landed safely in Paris at 0820 Paris time. Assuming there was no delay in Nairobi, we would have had 3 hours 40 mins to wait in Paris but due to the delay this was shortened to about 1 hour. We managed to get through security and to the gate with time to spare to buy breakfast. We realised it cost about the same to get breakfast in Paris as it was for all of our meals for a day in Kenya.
Matthew then decided there would be time to quickly grab a packet of crisps before boarding the plane. Not realising the vastness of the airport and the slowness of the servers in the shop, he then had to sprint across the airport to find the desk was about to put in a final call! Luckily he arrived just in time to board the flight before it left him behind!
The flight to Edinburgh was smooth and enjoyable. We arrived at the time expected- 1105 UK time- to be greeted by all of our parents in the airport with special balloons made with "welcome home" and our Kenyan name written on the front. It was a happy, tearful moment when we were finally reunited with our families. We then proceeded home. And it was great to be back in our own beds and have hot showers.
The End.
Not really though. There is a meeting the first week back to discuss the trip with parents, the pupils will be presenting assemblies once the term starts, as well as staff talks during the November inservice days. The exchange will also continue of course with the reciprocal visit next August where four talented Meru School boys will come to stay with us for two weeks. So the partnership is very much to continue.
We will all post reflections on the trip in the coming weeks and a new blog for the "Meru-Grove Visit 2012" will be set up in the near future.
Long live the partnership.
We would all like to thank the two teachers, Marjorie Kerr and Fiona McIntosh with all our hearts for the kindness, company, laughs, love, and dedication shown to all of us throughout the once in a lifetime trip. They are the ones who made the whole thing happen and we have to give many thanks to them for the fantastic experiences they gave us.
Getting emotional myself now as I write this- so I must sign off! Sleepy again now despite snoozing for over 13 hours last night!
Kwaheri
Matthew xxx
Day 14
It was yet another early start on Tuesday.
We took our suitcases down to reception before our last breakfast at the Thiiri Centre. Margaret and Silas arrived for the last time and took us to Meru School.
The time in school was spent doing the final bits and bobs before we went. The pupils went around various classes to hand out badges, keyrings and pencils to Meru boys they felt were particularly friendly to them as well as giving out cards and gifts to teachers. A piggy bank with some Kenyan shillings and British Pounds was presented to Silas, so he can save up for his next visit to Scotland!
It was another emotional goodbye when we gave speeches in the school staffroom. The school presented Grove with a beautiful carved wooden shield with both Grove and Meru school emblems on the front. We then presented the school with a Global Citizenship shield, and the new laptop. We then said our spiel and gave thanks to teachers and the Principal, as well as making Mrs Mac and Mrs Kerr cry when thanking them. Hugs all around at this point. A prayer was made and everyone left to allow us to prepare to leave for Nairobi.
The matatu was supposed to be at the school for 11.30am but didn't make it until about 12.00 as it was being "washed". Anyway we were given more hugs by Margaret and Amalia and seen off by other staff by 12.15. It was sad to leave the wonderful school.
The journey to Nairobi was not nearly as bad as on the way up to Meru.
We had planned to stop in the town of Nanyuki, west of Mount Kenya, for lunch, and to observe the equator. Mrs Mac had a bit of a tummy upset, so there was no lunch for her -poor thing!- and the rest of us enjoyed omelettes, burgers, chips and soda. We then flew right past the Equator, as someone had forgotten we were supposed to stop there. After turning around and going back we got a photo at the equator and saw the plughole-matchstick-phenomenon-thingy, which was cool. The curio-shop owners then did what we expected and hassled us with the "come to my shop- looking is free!" type pleas. After spending literally every shilling of our money, we loaded our bags of Kenyan pottery and wooden animals into the matatu and headed along the rest of the road to Nairobi.
We arrived at Jomo Kenyatta airport in plenty time. It was yet another emotion-filled farewell to Peter and Silas. We checked in our cases after changing into more comfortable clothes, but were told that, possibly due to the French air traffic control strike, our 2230 flight to Paris would be delayed. By how long, however, was a mystery at that point.
The airline then told us we could eat in their restaurant because of the delay. The food was not excellent, shall we say!
To try and kill some time before the announcement at 2200 we wandered round the shops in the roasting airport, but everything was about four times as expensive as the already pricey curio shops at the Equator, that none of us were too keen to buy much. By this point we were also nearly collapsing with tiredness so we decided to settle down on some seats. Mrs Mac cleverly positioned two sets of seats so she could lie down!
Eventually they announced the flight would leave at 0030. Later on we checked in at the gate and went through another metal detector to another lounge to wait in. A person came through and asked for Neal. Mrs Mac and Mrs Kerr were then asked to sign a disclaimer about his nut allergy. Of course they refused and went into a full-blown argument with a stubborn man until it was settled that Neal's terms and conditions written on the back of the disclaimer were that they weren't to serve nuts and that we should get seats at the back of the plane again. What annoyed us was the ignorance and lack of consideration showed by the staff, despite us trying to make sure hassle would be avoided on the way back by speaking to someone upon arrival. Then on the flight they served nuts in the muesli for breakfast. Mrs Kerr now has a packet of the muesli and is planning to complain to the airline. Thank goodness Neal was not affected.
After that ordeal the journey to Paris seemed to go fairly quickly as we all slept for most of the eight hours.
The sun set over the Sahara.
We took our suitcases down to reception before our last breakfast at the Thiiri Centre. Margaret and Silas arrived for the last time and took us to Meru School.
The time in school was spent doing the final bits and bobs before we went. The pupils went around various classes to hand out badges, keyrings and pencils to Meru boys they felt were particularly friendly to them as well as giving out cards and gifts to teachers. A piggy bank with some Kenyan shillings and British Pounds was presented to Silas, so he can save up for his next visit to Scotland!
It was another emotional goodbye when we gave speeches in the school staffroom. The school presented Grove with a beautiful carved wooden shield with both Grove and Meru school emblems on the front. We then presented the school with a Global Citizenship shield, and the new laptop. We then said our spiel and gave thanks to teachers and the Principal, as well as making Mrs Mac and Mrs Kerr cry when thanking them. Hugs all around at this point. A prayer was made and everyone left to allow us to prepare to leave for Nairobi.
The matatu was supposed to be at the school for 11.30am but didn't make it until about 12.00 as it was being "washed". Anyway we were given more hugs by Margaret and Amalia and seen off by other staff by 12.15. It was sad to leave the wonderful school.
The journey to Nairobi was not nearly as bad as on the way up to Meru.
We had planned to stop in the town of Nanyuki, west of Mount Kenya, for lunch, and to observe the equator. Mrs Mac had a bit of a tummy upset, so there was no lunch for her -poor thing!- and the rest of us enjoyed omelettes, burgers, chips and soda. We then flew right past the Equator, as someone had forgotten we were supposed to stop there. After turning around and going back we got a photo at the equator and saw the plughole-matchstick-phenomenon-thingy, which was cool. The curio-shop owners then did what we expected and hassled us with the "come to my shop- looking is free!" type pleas. After spending literally every shilling of our money, we loaded our bags of Kenyan pottery and wooden animals into the matatu and headed along the rest of the road to Nairobi.
We arrived at Jomo Kenyatta airport in plenty time. It was yet another emotion-filled farewell to Peter and Silas. We checked in our cases after changing into more comfortable clothes, but were told that, possibly due to the French air traffic control strike, our 2230 flight to Paris would be delayed. By how long, however, was a mystery at that point.
The airline then told us we could eat in their restaurant because of the delay. The food was not excellent, shall we say!
To try and kill some time before the announcement at 2200 we wandered round the shops in the roasting airport, but everything was about four times as expensive as the already pricey curio shops at the Equator, that none of us were too keen to buy much. By this point we were also nearly collapsing with tiredness so we decided to settle down on some seats. Mrs Mac cleverly positioned two sets of seats so she could lie down!
Eventually they announced the flight would leave at 0030. Later on we checked in at the gate and went through another metal detector to another lounge to wait in. A person came through and asked for Neal. Mrs Mac and Mrs Kerr were then asked to sign a disclaimer about his nut allergy. Of course they refused and went into a full-blown argument with a stubborn man until it was settled that Neal's terms and conditions written on the back of the disclaimer were that they weren't to serve nuts and that we should get seats at the back of the plane again. What annoyed us was the ignorance and lack of consideration showed by the staff, despite us trying to make sure hassle would be avoided on the way back by speaking to someone upon arrival. Then on the flight they served nuts in the muesli for breakfast. Mrs Kerr now has a packet of the muesli and is planning to complain to the airline. Thank goodness Neal was not affected.
After that ordeal the journey to Paris seemed to go fairly quickly as we all slept for most of the eight hours.
The sun set over the Sahara.
Home cold and sweet home
I loved my own bed with no mosie net. I loved a hot shower. I hate the dreich weather already - only 11 degrees. I miss the Kenyan sunshine and the warmth of the friends we made. I miss the morning banter of our brilliant brilliant pupils. I DO NOT miss the paparazzi photographer!
Posted by Mrs Lionhair.
Posted by Mrs Lionhair.
Wednesday, 12 October 2011
Welcome home!
We have arrived home safe and sound after a long time travelling. Thankyou to all of our parents for coming to meet us at Edinburgh Airport with balloons and for driving us all home. It's great to have a hot shower, toast, proper tea etc etc etc!
The flights were okay, apart from a delay of 2 hours in Nairobi. However we still managed to catch our connecting flight in Paris to make it to Scotland on time.
The flights were okay, apart from a delay of 2 hours in Nairobi. However we still managed to catch our connecting flight in Paris to make it to Scotland on time.
Monday, 10 October 2011
Last Full Day :( (Day 13)
Last night was let's say...eventful. We were all in Mummy Kerr and Mummy Mac's room when suddenly a swarm of pterodactyl like moths/dragonflies started appearing and flapping around causing CHAOS. It resulted in all four ladies huddling under one mosquito net with the boys running around the room like ninjas brandishing flip-flops until there was a pile of about a dozen dead creatures oozing over the floor. Mrs Mac also found that they would be a good substitute for glue when she accidentally stood on the graveyard later that evening.
Us children had a nice relaxing couple of hours by the pool this morning whilst Mummy Mac and Mummy Kerr had a rather longggg meeting about the partnership. We had a quick visit to a 'Curio' shop which sold lost of nice Africanny goodies and NONE of us came away empty handed. We then drove through the market which is one of the biggest in Eastern Africa. Time restrictions meant that we couldn't get out of the car to have a look around but the sights and smells were something to behold even from a bit of a distance!
In the afternoon we had a visit to Limbine Primary School. We received an incredibly warm welcome from both staff and pupils. The pupils had prepared some cultural singing, dancing and poetry. We were dragged up to join in which caused much hilarity amongst the pupils. Mrs Mac especially was a major crowd pleaser, not just because of her dancing.... There was a bit of a commotion half way through one of the dances and as we all looked over to where she HAD been standing, the dust cloud cleared to reveal Mrs Mac in a heap on the floor, covered in dust. We all found this SO hilarious that we all nearly joined her rolling about on the floor laughing but she redeemed herself pretty well!
We then had a flying visit to Elijah and Priscilla's for some scrumptious cake, African tea and final farewells which were, of course, emotional! Dinner at The White Star hotel then home for some last minute packing and then bed as we are up early (surprise surprise) tomorrow.
Tomorrow will consist of saying goodbye to all the boys, the staff and the people who have looked after us over the past couple of weeks then a bumpy- no doubt chaotic- ride back to Nairobi passing into the southern hemisphere again then boarding the plane in the evening to leave Kenya.
It's incredibly hard to explain just what an amazing experience we have all shared together over the past couple of weeks and I think that we are all very sad for it to be coming to an end.
Us children had a nice relaxing couple of hours by the pool this morning whilst Mummy Mac and Mummy Kerr had a rather longggg meeting about the partnership. We had a quick visit to a 'Curio' shop which sold lost of nice Africanny goodies and NONE of us came away empty handed. We then drove through the market which is one of the biggest in Eastern Africa. Time restrictions meant that we couldn't get out of the car to have a look around but the sights and smells were something to behold even from a bit of a distance!
In the afternoon we had a visit to Limbine Primary School. We received an incredibly warm welcome from both staff and pupils. The pupils had prepared some cultural singing, dancing and poetry. We were dragged up to join in which caused much hilarity amongst the pupils. Mrs Mac especially was a major crowd pleaser, not just because of her dancing.... There was a bit of a commotion half way through one of the dances and as we all looked over to where she HAD been standing, the dust cloud cleared to reveal Mrs Mac in a heap on the floor, covered in dust. We all found this SO hilarious that we all nearly joined her rolling about on the floor laughing but she redeemed herself pretty well!
We then had a flying visit to Elijah and Priscilla's for some scrumptious cake, African tea and final farewells which were, of course, emotional! Dinner at The White Star hotel then home for some last minute packing and then bed as we are up early (surprise surprise) tomorrow.
Tomorrow will consist of saying goodbye to all the boys, the staff and the people who have looked after us over the past couple of weeks then a bumpy- no doubt chaotic- ride back to Nairobi passing into the southern hemisphere again then boarding the plane in the evening to leave Kenya.
It's incredibly hard to explain just what an amazing experience we have all shared together over the past couple of weeks and I think that we are all very sad for it to be coming to an end.
Sunday, 9 October 2011
2nd last day :( (Day 12)
SAFARI!
Today we went on an exciting tour of Buffalo Springs Game Reserve then through Samburu National Park in our old friend, the matatu.
Today we went on an exciting tour of Buffalo Springs Game Reserve then through Samburu National Park in our old friend, the matatu.
We woke at the almost normal time of 6am today to head off early so we could see the best of the animals!
After slowly scraping our way past the what felt like millions of people selling us various traditional Kenyan items, we managed to escape with a few too many wooden giraffes and almost no money.
It was quite hot today even for the locals and the van had a few sticky people in it with wet bums!
This is a long list of animals that we saw today:
Zebras (grevys and common ones)
Gerunuk (long neck antelopes)
Dik-diks
Giraffes
Elephants
Warthogs
Monkeys (who enjoyed our lunch)
Baboons
Gazelles and loads more.
We ended up being absolutely covered in orange dust by the time we reached Samburu. The matatu got so hot in the 33 degree midday sun that it was impossible to survive without a window open- but this meant you often got a faceful of dust!
We ended up being absolutely covered in orange dust by the time we reached Samburu. The matatu got so hot in the 33 degree midday sun that it was impossible to survive without a window open- but this meant you often got a faceful of dust!
We also passed a very tempting swimming pool which Mrs Mac, Matthew and I very nearly "accidently" fell in!
After leaving the safari park and having nyama choma (goat meat) in a restaurant on the way back, we had a naming ceremony. Mrs Kerr was named Nkathe, which means responsible one. Matthew was named Mwenda which means well behaved and likeable. I was named Makena which means jolly or happy. Danielle was named Kaari which means feminine. Neal was named Muthomi which means intelligent. Mrs Mac was named Kiende, which means sociable.
Overall it was an enthralling day which we won't forget in a hurry.
Overall it was an enthralling day which we won't forget in a hurry.
Saturday, 8 October 2011
Day 11
Today was tea day.
We got up for an 8am breakfast of crepes and jam. yum.
Lucy and Silas arrived, and after a bit of confusion about where the tea plantation was, we set off north past Ruiri and on the dirt track to the tea plantation that Mrs Kerr visited in 2008. Since we had travelled higher and higher into the Nyambene hills near Meru, it was far colder at the factory than in Meru, so we all stood, wrapped up in coats and fleeces and shivering, as the guide spoke about the place.
The factory is set in beautiful vast fields of bright green tea bushes on the hills, with pickers scattered between them doing their job. We were shown round the three storey building, which is filled with noisy machinery. The highest two floors are giant containers of tea leaves, being allowed to wither over time, before being put on a conveyer belt leading to the ground floor.
The next stage is to macerate, crush and dry the leaves. Huge rollers and crushing machines break up the leaves before hot air is blasted through the leaves, making them behave like a liquid. After this stage the leaves are sorted into four grades. We were surprised to learn that teabags partly contain the fibres and dust left when the real tea grains are separated. The tea is then packaged into 68kg sacks and sent by lorry to auction.
It was very interesting for all of us but it was particularly good to see for real what we learnt about tea farms in S2 Geography.
We then had a very pleasant lunch in the arboretum garden nearby.
After this we set off back to the Thiiri Centre. An afternoon of swimming, sunbathing, eating food and writing thankyou cards to the teachers. Oh and starting to pack our cases :(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(
Very sleepy now!
Samburu tomorrow.
Matthew x
We got up for an 8am breakfast of crepes and jam. yum.
Lucy and Silas arrived, and after a bit of confusion about where the tea plantation was, we set off north past Ruiri and on the dirt track to the tea plantation that Mrs Kerr visited in 2008. Since we had travelled higher and higher into the Nyambene hills near Meru, it was far colder at the factory than in Meru, so we all stood, wrapped up in coats and fleeces and shivering, as the guide spoke about the place.
The factory is set in beautiful vast fields of bright green tea bushes on the hills, with pickers scattered between them doing their job. We were shown round the three storey building, which is filled with noisy machinery. The highest two floors are giant containers of tea leaves, being allowed to wither over time, before being put on a conveyer belt leading to the ground floor.
The next stage is to macerate, crush and dry the leaves. Huge rollers and crushing machines break up the leaves before hot air is blasted through the leaves, making them behave like a liquid. After this stage the leaves are sorted into four grades. We were surprised to learn that teabags partly contain the fibres and dust left when the real tea grains are separated. The tea is then packaged into 68kg sacks and sent by lorry to auction.
It was very interesting for all of us but it was particularly good to see for real what we learnt about tea farms in S2 Geography.
We then had a very pleasant lunch in the arboretum garden nearby.
After this we set off back to the Thiiri Centre. An afternoon of swimming, sunbathing, eating food and writing thankyou cards to the teachers. Oh and starting to pack our cases :(:(:(:(:(:(:(:(
Very sleepy now!
Samburu tomorrow.
Matthew x
Friday, 7 October 2011
Better late than never!
This will not be along post because I'm running out of time. It's taken yonks for me to get this far.
Danielle, Katie, Matthew and Neal have been brilliant young ambassadors for Grove. I've watched them grow in confidence all week. Today they were all able to stand up and speak confidently and with compassion when visiting a primary school. They show genuine interest in all around them. It is a pleasure to be with them.
Danielle, Katie, Matthew and Neal have been brilliant young ambassadors for Grove. I've watched them grow in confidence all week. Today they were all able to stand up and speak confidently and with compassion when visiting a primary school. They show genuine interest in all around them. It is a pleasure to be with them.
Day 10
Today was eye-opening.
Very wet this morning. Katie and Danielle decided to get up an hour earlier than they wanted, so had to go back to bed in their school uniform!
We didn't need to get up at the crack of dawn today since the boys are all off on midterm break. Originally the form fours were to stay and revise but the Principal decided to let them have a well-deserved rest. This meant that we only needed to go into school to meet the parents of the four pupils coming to Scotland next year (well, the three that were able to make it). After a lengthy discussion involving the Vice Principal, Mr Ngeera, who is also coming in August 2012, led by Silas, we had tea and then the boys opened their surprise gifts. We feel they were overjoyed with their new hoodies, t-shirts, stationary and shortbread. The parents seemed concerned at first but quickly warmed to the partnership idea. They are all very pleasant and care for their sons. The boys are lovely- we are all fighting over them!
Lovely sun- I think we haven't been out in it for long enough though to get a tan- bring on Samburu!
After this exchange we had lunch in the boardroom before being picked up by Reverend Elijah to be taken to MCK Buuri E Kingori Primary School in the district next to Meru town. We were given another lunch at the school - we are nearly full to bursting at this point!!!- and some lovely gifts from the school. We were surprised by the generosity of the teachers and staff.
We got to see all the classes of the little children- they got cuter and smaller as we moved down the years. They all waved, clapped and cheered when we came into their classrooms. It was an uplifting experience. A bell rang and the pupils, some in red hats and bare feet, went onto the grass bank above the school and sang a beautiful song about us before we all shook hands with the tiny boys and girls. They then were dismissed and we drove past, waving to them as they walked home on the dusty tracks by themselves.
The main reason why Rev. Mwirigi brought us to the wonderful school was to witness the vast improvements made since money was given to them through the MSTF. Mrs Kerr will explain more on her post. However we were taken aback by their generosity despite their relative poverty and the fact that we have had nothing to do with the renovation. The school is now blessed with plastered walls and concrete paths and floors in all the classrooms. They are also in the process of constructing two new classrooms. We were amazed at their dedication.
Upon returning from the primary school, we visited the shopping mall Nakumatt in Meru where we stocked up on resources (sweets and Fanta!). Elijah seems to know everyone, so we bumped into the man responsible for the 300 schools in the same district as the MCK primary school. He has many contacts across Kenya. A remarkable man.
Dinner at Thiiri Centre before a blogging session. Tomorrow is the tea plantation visit- a drive of about 90 minutes. We are to take packed lunches on the day trip.
Kenya is just awe-inspiring. We really can't face coming back. Loving life here.
Speak soon!
Matthew x
Very wet this morning. Katie and Danielle decided to get up an hour earlier than they wanted, so had to go back to bed in their school uniform!
We didn't need to get up at the crack of dawn today since the boys are all off on midterm break. Originally the form fours were to stay and revise but the Principal decided to let them have a well-deserved rest. This meant that we only needed to go into school to meet the parents of the four pupils coming to Scotland next year (well, the three that were able to make it). After a lengthy discussion involving the Vice Principal, Mr Ngeera, who is also coming in August 2012, led by Silas, we had tea and then the boys opened their surprise gifts. We feel they were overjoyed with their new hoodies, t-shirts, stationary and shortbread. The parents seemed concerned at first but quickly warmed to the partnership idea. They are all very pleasant and care for their sons. The boys are lovely- we are all fighting over them!
Lovely sun- I think we haven't been out in it for long enough though to get a tan- bring on Samburu!
After this exchange we had lunch in the boardroom before being picked up by Reverend Elijah to be taken to MCK Buuri E Kingori Primary School in the district next to Meru town. We were given another lunch at the school - we are nearly full to bursting at this point!!!- and some lovely gifts from the school. We were surprised by the generosity of the teachers and staff.
We got to see all the classes of the little children- they got cuter and smaller as we moved down the years. They all waved, clapped and cheered when we came into their classrooms. It was an uplifting experience. A bell rang and the pupils, some in red hats and bare feet, went onto the grass bank above the school and sang a beautiful song about us before we all shook hands with the tiny boys and girls. They then were dismissed and we drove past, waving to them as they walked home on the dusty tracks by themselves.
The main reason why Rev. Mwirigi brought us to the wonderful school was to witness the vast improvements made since money was given to them through the MSTF. Mrs Kerr will explain more on her post. However we were taken aback by their generosity despite their relative poverty and the fact that we have had nothing to do with the renovation. The school is now blessed with plastered walls and concrete paths and floors in all the classrooms. They are also in the process of constructing two new classrooms. We were amazed at their dedication.
Upon returning from the primary school, we visited the shopping mall Nakumatt in Meru where we stocked up on resources (sweets and Fanta!). Elijah seems to know everyone, so we bumped into the man responsible for the 300 schools in the same district as the MCK primary school. He has many contacts across Kenya. A remarkable man.
Dinner at Thiiri Centre before a blogging session. Tomorrow is the tea plantation visit- a drive of about 90 minutes. We are to take packed lunches on the day trip.
Kenya is just awe-inspiring. We really can't face coming back. Loving life here.
Speak soon!
Matthew x
MCK Buuri E Kingori Primary School
I know Matthew will be writing eloquently about today's visits but I want to particularly comment on our visit to the primary school this afternoon. We were taken by Rev Elijah Mwirigi and on the way he arranged for me to meet 4 of the pupils who are being sponsored by the Moira Stewart Trust Fund. All are girls who are studying at various high schools in the area and are very needy. When we arrived at the primary school we were greeted by the Chairperson, Treasurer, Secretary and Head Teacher. An enormous feast had been prepared for us and we'd just finished lunch! Various other dignitaries were also there. The classes were all left to work while the teachers joined us. They had set the classroom desks out with tablecloths, juice, water etc. There were loads of speeches. Elijah explained why we were there. As Education Secretary for the MCK, he had wanted to help this school as it was performing well but its buildings were in a poor condition. There were no floors and no plaster on the walls.
The Moira Stewart Trust Fund is administered from Dundee and our former Rector is a Trustee. Having discussed several ways of helping students in the Meru area of Kenya, a plan to assist this school was established. The Fund has paid for new walls and floors throughout all 8 classrooms. Another classroom block has still to be built and the immediate grounds are to be landscaped. Elijah met some of the Trustees when he was over in the UK in July this year. Once everything is finished he hopes one of them might come over to dedicate the new buildings.
In the meantime, I suppose we were the next best thing! There were loads of speeches and loads of thanks. All of us are getting much better at standing up and speaking off the cuff! The staff presented us with t-shirts for the boys and lesos/kangas for the girls (basically a bit like sarongs). We then visited each class in turn form oldest to youngest then they all came outside into the field. There the senior girls choir sang and danced. Mrs Mac and I joined in , followed by the pupils then the staff and visitors. It was a really happy occasion. Elijah asked me to say another few words which of course he had to translate into Kimeru. Then I had to do a prayer for the gathering. Again there had been a tremendous welcome and it was so joyful. These kids have very little but are so happy. We couldn't get away as every single one of the around 400 pupils wanted to shake everyone's hand and touch Katie's red hair! They also wanted to try out their English! A truly wonderful experience- they are so grateful for the work that has been carried out due to alittle bit of financial help and a lot of co-ordination by Elijah.
The Moira Stewart Trust Fund is administered from Dundee and our former Rector is a Trustee. Having discussed several ways of helping students in the Meru area of Kenya, a plan to assist this school was established. The Fund has paid for new walls and floors throughout all 8 classrooms. Another classroom block has still to be built and the immediate grounds are to be landscaped. Elijah met some of the Trustees when he was over in the UK in July this year. Once everything is finished he hopes one of them might come over to dedicate the new buildings.
In the meantime, I suppose we were the next best thing! There were loads of speeches and loads of thanks. All of us are getting much better at standing up and speaking off the cuff! The staff presented us with t-shirts for the boys and lesos/kangas for the girls (basically a bit like sarongs). We then visited each class in turn form oldest to youngest then they all came outside into the field. There the senior girls choir sang and danced. Mrs Mac and I joined in , followed by the pupils then the staff and visitors. It was a really happy occasion. Elijah asked me to say another few words which of course he had to translate into Kimeru. Then I had to do a prayer for the gathering. Again there had been a tremendous welcome and it was so joyful. These kids have very little but are so happy. We couldn't get away as every single one of the around 400 pupils wanted to shake everyone's hand and touch Katie's red hair! They also wanted to try out their English! A truly wonderful experience- they are so grateful for the work that has been carried out due to alittle bit of financial help and a lot of co-ordination by Elijah.
Wednesday, 5 October 2011
Tired but happy!
Glad that the pupils have got the energy to blog at the end of the day as the staff are a bit wearied! Matthew, Katie, Neal and Danielle are doing everyone proud. They have been up every morning with no moans and willing to participate in all aspects of life, both inside and out of school. They are excellent ambassadors for Grove Academy.
Day 8
Still struggling to be ready for school by 7 am EVERY morning, we attended the class meeting of 1K. This is where the pupil get to share their views and problem with each other, their teacher and a parent representative. It was also yet another example of the sense of team spirit and brotherhood which we have all become aware of over the past few days. I find their motivation and determination to succeed so amazing. It was also an opportunity for them to ask us visitors questions about our day to day lives and how our school works and teach us some MORE Kiswahili in one of the lessons!
Today there was lots of opportunities for us to interact more with the boys than we have the other days and it was really nice to be able to share not only about our lives but the challenges that pupils from both Meru and Grove face. We also covered topics like peer pressure, the pressures of schoolwork and the need to succeed as well as issues such as HIV/AIDS education and corruption. We also enjoyed getting a chance to chat with the boys more freely at the international awareness group :)
In the afternoon we were taken to visit an organisation called 'Ripples' which takes in orphans whose parents have died of diseases, mainly HIV/AIDS, or have been abandoned. We were shown round the building for the children up to the age of 3 (the youngest of which was 3 days old!). We got to play with the children but found that once you picked a child and interacted with them for a while they were NOT amused when you put them back own again!
We were then taken to their children's hospital and also the area were people are tested and educated about HIV/AIDS. We were all really impressed and moved by the incredible work that they carry out at the centre everyday and wish we had more time to spend there!
Today there was lots of opportunities for us to interact more with the boys than we have the other days and it was really nice to be able to share not only about our lives but the challenges that pupils from both Meru and Grove face. We also covered topics like peer pressure, the pressures of schoolwork and the need to succeed as well as issues such as HIV/AIDS education and corruption. We also enjoyed getting a chance to chat with the boys more freely at the international awareness group :)
In the afternoon we were taken to visit an organisation called 'Ripples' which takes in orphans whose parents have died of diseases, mainly HIV/AIDS, or have been abandoned. We were shown round the building for the children up to the age of 3 (the youngest of which was 3 days old!). We got to play with the children but found that once you picked a child and interacted with them for a while they were NOT amused when you put them back own again!
We were then taken to their children's hospital and also the area were people are tested and educated about HIV/AIDS. We were all really impressed and moved by the incredible work that they carry out at the centre everyday and wish we had more time to spend there!
Tuesday, 4 October 2011
Pupil Voice for Day 6
We spent a long day on Monday in Meru School. It was fascinating to see the boys at work. The classrooms are hot, stuffy and cramped with small wooden desks- and a noticable lack of facilities- no projectors, no whiteboards, no cupboards filled with jotters and books. The learning style is traditional hard work- the teacher writes on the blackboard and the pupils copy down the work or discuss it with their fellow classmates. Attitude and discipline in the school differ to Grove- some pupils are extremely focused and enthused whereas others take the opportunity to doze in the warm rooms- and as far as discipline is concerned, we learned that corporal punishment is used.
Throughout the day we met many teachers, but we do find it hard to remember their names! We also spent a lot of time in classes- some of us even showed off our Chemistry knowledge!
We ended the day with a spot of rugby. Neal did his very best to adapt his skills to play their game and he really enjoyed it.
Amalia Kithure and her husband then welcomed us to her lovely home for dinner. Amalia is to come to Scotland next year with Vice Principal Kithinji Ngeera. It was a great night, with a lot of exciting discussion about the forthcoming trip with other Meru teachers Mr Gitari and Mr Kilingo.
A note about accommodation: the Thiiri Centre is wonderful. Miss Glover and Mrs Holligan, along with the help of Mr Kilingo and Reverend Elijah Mwirigi, managed to find the great centre last time they visited. The centre has internet access, a brilliant swimming pool, great breakfasts and very comfy rooms. It is very impressive and we are all enjoying our time here.
Today was excellent- it was great to start to form perceptions of what Meru School is really like.
Love from MDNK xxx
Throughout the day we met many teachers, but we do find it hard to remember their names! We also spent a lot of time in classes- some of us even showed off our Chemistry knowledge!
We ended the day with a spot of rugby. Neal did his very best to adapt his skills to play their game and he really enjoyed it.
Amalia Kithure and her husband then welcomed us to her lovely home for dinner. Amalia is to come to Scotland next year with Vice Principal Kithinji Ngeera. It was a great night, with a lot of exciting discussion about the forthcoming trip with other Meru teachers Mr Gitari and Mr Kilingo.
A note about accommodation: the Thiiri Centre is wonderful. Miss Glover and Mrs Holligan, along with the help of Mr Kilingo and Reverend Elijah Mwirigi, managed to find the great centre last time they visited. The centre has internet access, a brilliant swimming pool, great breakfasts and very comfy rooms. It is very impressive and we are all enjoying our time here.
Today was excellent- it was great to start to form perceptions of what Meru School is really like.
Love from MDNK xxx
Day 7
Got up at 6 o'clock today! Dad be proud, be proud!
We went to visit one of the dorms today which sleeps 76 of the pupils. It was totally unbelievable. It seemed quite cramped, although the boys are very happy and sooo tidy! They put me to shame!
We went to various classes today and they were really interesting although to be honest I am struggling with the work. They are really bright! We also went to a debating class today and we found the system is really quite different to our own. Although with a little bit of pushing Matthew and I participated, although I am not telling you who won.
We had lunch in the school dinner hall with the other pupils for the first time today also. The food was quite good although we don't think we could have put up with it everyday. And it seems that some of the boys are against the food as well, as they receive a bowl of food and "accidentally" spill it all over the table!
We spent the afternoon with the group of boys that make the Meru Beads in order to raise funds for those who are not in the financial position to attend their school. We learnt how to make the beads at every stage, but we were definitely not as good as the boys. Each of us now a piece of the jewellery to remember it by.
Tonight we went for tea at Elijah and Priscilla's house. It was AMAZING. The food was really good and MY ADOPTIVE MUM WAS THERE! She has told me that I can come and live with her and she will find me a Kenyan husband. the wedding is on the 18th, coming dad? hahahahaha. They loved the presents that we gave them at the end of the evening when everything started to get quite emotional (i blame Mrs Kerr).
We are having such an amazing time and we just wish you could all be with us to share the experience!
Katie xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx :):):):):););););) xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Monday, 3 October 2011
This is especially for the staff!
Mrs Mac and I were up at 5.30 a.m. (pupils at 6!!) Even the kitchen wasn't open for breakfast so we had bread and jam and juice. (and one of Fiona's graze boxes) Picked up at 7 a.m. for assembly at 7.20 a.m. (Lesley if you're considering changing the school day we recommend this early start) The boys did a great job with the Meru Scouts and Neal was selected to raise the Kenyan flag while the boys sang the school song and the national anthem. This was followed by a short service led by one of the pupils. Silas introduced us. I spoke then the pupils introduced themselves then Fiona delivered the Rector's message in her oratory voice. The Principal spoke warmly and genuinely about the benefits of this partnership. He is really looking forward to the exchange of pupils. It is heartwarming to recognise that the hard work has paid off and this partnership is now firmly established in both schools.
Silas has just taken us on a tour of the school grounds including the sports fields and agricultural areas. Goats and cows were grazing on the pitches. One cow was not so lucky- and those who wished to had their first opportunity to view a dissection. (One cow feeds the boys for two days) We saw the piggery- oldest was 3 years and youngest little piggies were only a month. The school aims to be self sufficient and apart from the agriculture they have their own flour mill. Other local schools send maize to be milled here too.Collaborative practice!
The accommodation for the school is improving all the time. We saw the new dining hall and the toilet blocks. There are currently two science labs under construction. They have to be finished for the national exams on 18th October. Unlike Scotland the builders will work all night if necessary to meet the deadline.
The grounds are beautifully kept. Nevis (Laura and Mary's tree) is growing well.The boys are responsible for keeping paths clean of litter, fallen leaves and other detritus.(Higher English word of the day- please note Mrs Muir- this is an educational visit! active learning and cross curricular indeed!) The paths here are named after the 12 core international values- Love, Respect, Tolerance, Honesty, Humility, Unity, Simplicity,Responsibility, Happiness, Freedom, Co-operation, Peace. We really must implement your idea, Laura, to name the corridors of Grove in a similar way.
Break was most welcome- tea, coffee, muffins, biscuits and sweet potato in the boardroom! (we've definitely gone up in the world!) We have just been introduced to all 47 staff in the staff room- boy are we struggling with the names! We've been given an office with a computer so we've pulled rank on the pupils so we can blog. We're just waiting to be told which classes we're going to shadow. There are four senior classes so the pupils will be assigned to one each.
Fiona is getting lots of ideas about the new behaviour policy- she has already asked the Principal if she can bring home his cane! ( I don't think she'll get it on the plane!)
Pupils are great ambassadors for the school. We're very proud of them.
Kwaheri
Mrs Kerr, Mrs Mac, Katie, Matthew, Neal and Danielle.
Sunday, 2 October 2011
Day 5
This morning we were taken to St Stephens Church which is partnered with the St Stephen's church at home in Broughty Ferry. We had the BEST welcome and all had a go at joining in the the hymns that were all sung in Swahili which was rather interesting. Our choir practice must have helped last night because when it was our turn to sing for the congregation it went without TOO many hiccups although Mrs Kerr had a bit of a solo when the rest of us backed out on one of the high sections. Mrs Mac was also the first lady to play their keyboard.
After the service where we all frazzled in 32 degree heat and managed to think of something to say to the congregation about ourselves on the spot, me and Katie got to join in with some young mother's rehearsing their performance for next week's service (we do have video footage if you want a laugh!) We also had a lovely meal where we had the chance to speak to some of the members of the church. Katie was christened Makenna - the one that always smiles and I was named Kaari- nice girl. Katie was nearly adopted by a local woman who took a bit of a shine to her!
The boys were taken on a crash course in flag raising by the boys at the school as they will be raising the flag tomorrow at assembly ( at 7.20am) ....or Neal will as Matthew's marching wasn't quite up to scratch....
Off to Margret's for tea :)
After the service where we all frazzled in 32 degree heat and managed to think of something to say to the congregation about ourselves on the spot, me and Katie got to join in with some young mother's rehearsing their performance for next week's service (we do have video footage if you want a laugh!) We also had a lovely meal where we had the chance to speak to some of the members of the church. Katie was christened Makenna - the one that always smiles and I was named Kaari- nice girl. Katie was nearly adopted by a local woman who took a bit of a shine to her!
The boys were taken on a crash course in flag raising by the boys at the school as they will be raising the flag tomorrow at assembly ( at 7.20am) ....or Neal will as Matthew's marching wasn't quite up to scratch....
Off to Margret's for tea :)
Saturday, 1 October 2011
Our first day in Meru!
We all had a lovely relaxing morning sunbathing and swimming/pushing Matthew in the pool ;)
Had lunch with Margret and her daughter Joy which was lovely. The weather has been scorching today. Mrs Mac and Mrs Kerr BOTH have sunburn...thought they were meant to be the responsible adults!
We were taken on a bit of a tour around Meru today. We were taken to the council of elders building and a waterfall which was really interesting
We did some off road driving into a forest to go and view one of the oldest trees in area. It was so large that nine of us to determine the width. We also never thought that we would go looking for elephants in flip flops... it's fair to say that we all stayed VERY close to soldier with a rather large gun who accompanied us. We had our first visit to Meru High School where we met some of the teachers and signed the visitors book.
Tomorrow we will be going to church and singing a few hymns for the congregation in which we still need to practice.....it may just turn into a solo for Mrs Mac! We are then going to Margret's for tea in the afternoon.
Running out of adjectives to describe our time here, amazing, brilliant.....at this rate we won't be coming home!
Had lunch with Margret and her daughter Joy which was lovely. The weather has been scorching today. Mrs Mac and Mrs Kerr BOTH have sunburn...thought they were meant to be the responsible adults!
We were taken on a bit of a tour around Meru today. We were taken to the council of elders building and a waterfall which was really interesting
We did some off road driving into a forest to go and view one of the oldest trees in area. It was so large that nine of us to determine the width. We also never thought that we would go looking for elephants in flip flops... it's fair to say that we all stayed VERY close to soldier with a rather large gun who accompanied us. We had our first visit to Meru High School where we met some of the teachers and signed the visitors book.
Tomorrow we will be going to church and singing a few hymns for the congregation in which we still need to practice.....it may just turn into a solo for Mrs Mac! We are then going to Margret's for tea in the afternoon.
Running out of adjectives to describe our time here, amazing, brilliant.....at this rate we won't be coming home!
Day 3
Hello from sunny Meru. Had a nice lie-in and breakfast after a tiring day travelling about 400km up the road from Nairobi. Planning to swim soon. Visiting school to meet principal and getting bearings around Meru.
Yesterday was interesting. The ride up to Meru was crazy. We were driven in a matatu- a minibus- and the traffic was mental. There were too many speedbumps to count and occasionally spikes on the road. However it didn't slow the driver down!!! Then the heavens opened just when we arrived for lunch on the way. The restaurant turned into a swimming pool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By the end of the journey (after crossing the Equator) with a combination of tiredness, boredom and too many E- numbers/sugar from a few sips of Coke, Matthew went slightly insane and Danielle had to confiscate his camera and his hat before she had to chuck him out the back of the bus into the rain. LOL!
When we finally arrived we were greeted by surprise by Margaret with a BIG hug. Thiiri Centre is really nice.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx :):):):):) xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Yesterday was interesting. The ride up to Meru was crazy. We were driven in a matatu- a minibus- and the traffic was mental. There were too many speedbumps to count and occasionally spikes on the road. However it didn't slow the driver down!!! Then the heavens opened just when we arrived for lunch on the way. The restaurant turned into a swimming pool!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By the end of the journey (after crossing the Equator) with a combination of tiredness, boredom and too many E- numbers/sugar from a few sips of Coke, Matthew went slightly insane and Danielle had to confiscate his camera and his hat before she had to chuck him out the back of the bus into the rain. LOL!
When we finally arrived we were greeted by surprise by Margaret with a BIG hug. Thiiri Centre is really nice.xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx :):):):):) xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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