Carved out of the jungle, the beautiful Dharmarama School in Ahangama is an outstanding example of the good that emerged, through the hard work and compassion of groups and individuals, from the tragedy of the tsunami; the Rotarians can be justly proud of what they have achieved, and what it represents.It was with eager anticipation, then, that we set out today to help Jason and Giulia with the sports and arts week they are running there. Lorna put her acquaintance with all things craft – glitter, tissue paper, paint and the like – to good use, helping the children to create a number of posters, showing different scenes from a story Giulia has taught them, and, indeed, is intending to act out with them. Meanwhile, if the arts room was a picture of tranquility, the sports field was a frenzy of running, jumping, catching and skipping. There were too many children to co-ordinate much organised sport – although Jason did manage to establish a remarkably controlled volleyball session – but they were all obviously enjoying themselves and getting plenty of exercise. I don’t know about the children, but Tom and I were certainly exhuasted by the end!

All in all, it was a great introduction to the school and the children, and we are looking forward to maintaining involvement there after Jason and Giulia have left, and continuing their good work.