What words would you use to describe your experience in Sri Lanka?

Humbling, once in a lifetime experience, exciting, cultured.

How do you think you benefitted from the experience? 

I had the opportunity to experience a school in a completely different culture with far less resources than a school in the UK. This has helped to put into perspective my experience working in schools in the UK and had given me lots of experience and information to share with my class. This trip also ticked off a lot of experiences on my bucket list, such as: volunteering abroad, learning some different sign languages, visiting a country in Asia, seeing elephants up close and being part of turtle conservation. I feel that this experience also puts me in good stead for applying for Teacher of the Deaf jobs in the near future! 

What did you learn? 

I learnt a lot about Sri Lankan culture and their way of life. 

What did you like about the VoluntEars programme?

It was varied and included activities to cater to lots of different interests and needs. I also liked that the VoluntEars programme allowed us to explore the ‘real’ Sri Lanka, not just the tourist side. 

What did VoluntEars do well?

Richard’s knowledge (VoluntEars Director) of the country and travel in general was brilliant and I felt safe and well looked-after during the whole trip. 

What was your funniest or most memorable experience?

My most memorable experiences (because I can’t choose just one!): making loom bands with the children, releasing turtles into the sea, looking around the local market on the first day and running out into the rain during a sweaty day of renovation! And the funniest has to be being surprised by a monkey!