Students and staff from a Lichfield school have visited Ghana as part of a partnership programme.
The group from Nether Stowe School took part in a series of fundraising projects ahead of their 12-day visit to Dominase Junior High School.
Their visit saw them help refurbish a classroom into an ICT alongside ‘buddy’ students from the Ghanaian school.
“All students and staff involved agree the experience was an incredible and worthwhile one especially the opportunity to live so closely in such a welcoming community,” explained Nether Stowe teacher Helen Whalley. “There was a feeling of appreciation for the luxury we are so fortunate to live in at home, but overwhelmingly a complete appreciation for the amazing culture and people in Ghana, and the benefits that education and partnerships can deliver to communities.”
The group of 11 students and two staff also spent time with their ‘buddy’ pupils, visiting their family homes and learning about Ghanaian cuisine.
Flo Best, one of the students who made the trip, said: “On arrival at the village of Dominase, the welcome from the community and Dominase Junior High School could not have been warmer or more vibrant, with singing, dancing and music welcoming the team.
“There was great excitement from the community about their guests and throughout the entire trip their generosity and enthusiasm was incredible.”
The Lichfield visitors were even privileged with an invitation to lunch at the village chief’s house.
Miss Whalley added: “Despite an emotional goodbye, the resounding feeling is that the foundation of a long standing partnership has been established. Friendships have been made and successful collaboration has resulted in the completion of some very worthwhile projects.”
As part of the partnership, the Ghanaian link teacher, Anthony Valcarcel, will be paying a return visit to Nether Stowe School in October to observe the English education system and teaching methods as well as the culture and way of life.
Click below to see more pictures from the visit:
It seems Netherstowe has a real calling for that part of the world. I know that the Emmanuel Christian Centre is doing a lot of good work in Africa.
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