English Camp

English Camp! English Camp! English Camp! The day had finally arrived when all Teaching Children, TEFL and Healthcare Volunteers would come together to teach English to over 200 enthusiastic Thai students. It was the TC’s time to shine as most of the kids were around 11 years of age. Finally we can prove to the TEFL’s that we actually do something during our long and strenuous days……Hah what a lie that is…..

The day started with a memorable songthaew ride through the forgotten roads of Krabi province, over bridges that were still being built and roads that had pot holes larger than the songthaew we travelled in.  On arrival at Khao panom we were welcomed somewhat like rock stars. Hundreds of eyes glanced at the 14 of us with great anticipation for what was to come. 

After being treated to a refreshing cold beverage, we were summoned to the stage to introduce ourselves. It was interesting to note that the vast locations from which we all came from excited the students.  Once all introductions had been completed, we were asked to ‘play a game’ with the students, all 200 of them. Lucky for us, the TC’s had just completed another English Camp which we sung the all famous ‘Banana Song’! Like true teachers we grabbed the microphone and performed a once in a lifetime concert for these kids. Vocal notes only an opera singer could reach and dance moves MJ himself would be proud of were displayed for these lucky children. This clearly proved that TC’s work extremely hard in their line of volunteering.

After the fun and games had finished, we were all split into pairs (a TC and a TELF) and spent the afternoon with smaller groups of students. Activities such as speaking, reading, writing, origami making, chicken dancing and a friendly game of ping pong were undertaken. All in all a wonderful day was had by all and the tune of the ‘Banana Song’ will live on for another generation.

Jonathan Gay, Teaching Children Volunteer, Thailand

English Camp