Day 3

Day 4
Today followed a similar pattern to yesterday; we left early in the morning (though not by Sri Lanka standards, the students had all left their homes at least three hours before!) and settled down into the groups and classrooms of the day before. Activities continued as they had yesterday, with two primary classes, one secondary and a decorating group. The aim of groups teaching in the primary age range was to try to instil a enthusiasm for English early in their school career. The aim of the secondary was to build upon the foundation that had already been laid and give extra support (especially to Grade 10 and 11 who were coming up to their exams). Decorating over the last few days has consisted of painting classroom desks great shades of pink and blue, in order to brighten up the rooms. Once the school term has finished (day after tomorrow) we should be able to start redecorating the classrooms which should hopefully make a wonderful difference.
Some have mentioned today, when we were summarising, how having seen Athidiya yesterday has changed their view of the children we are working with. Having seen their home life and the conditions in which many live has created a great respect for them; the sheer enthusiasm and vitality of every single student amazed us and combined with a new understanding of their situations we realised how truly special these children are.
It made me think about human qualities- it's easy to assume that because a somebody is living in poverty that they are a reduced person. But this is so far from the truth. Everything that makes us human: friendship, love, laughter, work, play, all of that is no different from a person living in less fortunate conditions. The children we have the honour of working with are some of the happiest people I have ever met, and this has nothing to do with their circumstances, just in the same way that we are having such a great time has little to do with ours- it is simply because we are all human. And regardless of any differences between us that is something we can all share.
Poverty should be eradicated because it is appalling, we knew that before our planes even took off and we know with even more certainty now, but it should be seen as a restoration of a basic human right rather than a self-righteous charitable act. Do it because you mean it. And after this trip, no one could feel otherwise.
Katherine
The young people from Middlesbrough have entered into the spirit of this trip with huge enthusiasm and energy, and everyone seems to be enjoying themselves enormously, despite the heat, humidity and challenging conditions at the school. They have even had a taste of discomfort back at the hotel: the top floor lost power the other night, and about half the group found themselves without fans during a very sticky night. Having valiantly tried to get to sleep, they finally came up with a solution – 14 people moved their mattresses down to the restaurant area, (including staff) and they camped there for the night! All done with great humour and joy – just part of their Sri Lankan adventure. Power is back now.
The daily de-brief is the highlight of my day – as they reflect on their experiences, we discuss the nature of poverty and appropriate interventions. Those who have been were shocked by Athidiya – who wouldn't be – but they are getting to know the children living there, and it changes everything. Another group go off for a walk around the community with Sister today.
Radhika