Teaching in China - Helen Willoughby

From a mature volunteer i.e. a young Granny!!!

I found PA web site through a "Gap Year for Adults" search and was a little concerned when it was suggested that my security details were left with my parents! It's true that my fellow volunteers are all aged between 18 and 22, but they've been great. It's been a good support to be able to travel together and meet up at local coffee shops. They're not big on Pubs in Wujiang.

I've been teaching 13 year olds. Initially I thought there's no way I'd get to know individuals in classes of 56. But before long you are recognising the characters, and everywhere you go you are greeted with, "Hello, how are you?" Many speak English well, some are shy and do not like to speak and one boy just smiles and talks to me in Chinese regardless. My big aim is to get an English word from him before I leave.

In my host family I haven't had to cook a meal, think about menus or do any washing for 2 months! But if you come in early spring be prepared to freeze. There is no heating in the house and it's usually colder inside than out. A hot water bottle is essential.

Thanks to PA for doing such a great job in organising my placement, making it possible for me to stay in such a lovely area of China. There's a load to see within 3 hours' travel from Wujiang and it's easy to get around.


Helen Willoughby

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