Friday 9th July by Alice

On Friday Nic, Rach, Joe, Will, Liam and I visited Hiththatiya – last years village to the remind them of our continuing support and to help with the sustainability of the project.  When we arrived we thought a fruit market was happening; village women were trooping into the building with bundles of fruit. On closer inspection we realised the children were playing at market!The school run the market once a month to help the pupils with dealing with money, numbers and how to interact in real life situations. The range of goods on offer was similar to the real markets and it was carried out in the same manner apart from the bartering. We tried many of the goods; some were delicious and others were an acquired taste.

After the market finished we played some ball games with the children and later helped with an art session.  We had prepared some after-school activities, primarily helping older children with their English. Unfortunately villagers did not know that we would be there and so did not come to the after school programme. We are hoping that by next week more people will be aware of what we are doing. It was great to be able to see last years school flourishing in such a vibrant and stimulating manner. It gives us a sense of encouragement for the continuation of our school in Kirelawela.