Memorable

At the beginning of September I spent two weeks on the PMGY Childcare programme in Thailand, where I have learnt so many skills, gained memories and been inspired for the future.
Before arriving PMGY sent a handbook with information and any questions I had they were reliable for answering in no time!
Our accommodation was in the house of our volunteer leader and her family! The accommodation catered for all needs as had everything us young people needed to be happy - WiFi, hot showers and a clean environment. Sopida and Darryl are a lovely couple who made us 6 feel comfortable and we became a little family for the 2 weeks we shared together. They supported us with weekend trips, taxis and flights. Sopida came with us to the school and supported us within the classrooms and translated any language we needed help with. We were hands on and never felt like we were unsure on what to do; as Sopida would prepare useful resources to support us if we needed it.
I recommend double checking the programme in the handbook for the difference between Childcare and Teaching. As our group are all trainee teachers we were happy to step in and teach more English without any preperarion with the younger children, however the ‘childcare’ programme doesn’t specify full on teaching. Also within the preschool the children have a large nap time and therefore we had a large break in the middle of the day (due to their age), if you are unsure if this would suit you, I would recommend double checking the programme you are going to be volunteering on. On the final 2 days of our programme, Sopida took us to a deprived school on the outskirts of Pathum Thani, here the children were aged 7-15 years old. This was a challenge for us all but the most rewarding as we saw how simple English lessons were appreciated and how the pupils were grateful for the small things in life. I feel lucky to have met such humble and respectful children in both schools.

Overall, I enjoyed spending time with Sopida and Darryl and can’t thank them enough for their hospitality. Sopida was always there to support us with any questions and to make our experience in Thailand the best! To say this was your first year, it was bloody brilliant! Keep at it guys and will see you soon! #pmgythailand