What a wonderful first week we have had at Mpata Primary School. From the hospitality we have received from the whole school community, to the enthusiasm shown by staff and learners alike, we truly feel like we have became part of the Mpata family this week.
Every day as we walk the final part of the journey to school (the car can only get so far), we are greeted by a sea of happy learners who have come to welcome us, carry our bags and escort us along the way. We feel like the Pied Pipers of Mpata.
This week we have worked mainly with the Standard 5 and 6 classes, however, we did have the opportunity to teach the "wee ones" in Standard 1 some playground games which they thoroughly enjoyed.
The teachers in Mpata have a very difficult job and are faced with many challenges, with over 200 learners squeezed into a classroom, hot and dusty conditions, this is not the most ideal setting for effective learning and teaching. However, despite this it is clear to see how passionate and enthusiastic the teachers and students are when it comes to learning.
Our top 5 highlights of the week have been:
1. Claire teaching Standard 6 aerobics and dancing on the dusty hill. They have the best moves!
2. Lesley using and demonstrating an active approach to teaching maths with an enthusiastic and positive response from the learners.
3. The introduction of think pair share in both classes, and watching our teachers implement these strategies.
4. Lesley making daily use of the small library, and introducing many reading strategies to the learners to encourage a love of reading books.
5. Claire bringing lessons to life through the use of drama and song. Standard 6 loved "Down in the Jungle" ..... they like to boogie woogie.
It has been a fantastic week, and we eagerly await returning to Mpata on Monday! We feel the impact of the MLOL project is beginning to show already.
