Introduction in the Phumlani primary school

This morning - I rose at 6 am - we went to the primary school. My introduction.
It had been raining since early in the morning and it was still pouring. The playground had changed into a mudd pool. But the children were there: uniformed and ready for the new day and week.
My desire was to attend some lessons, no matter what subject, and in several degrees, in order to get an impression of the children, the teachers, the methodology, ... So we did.

In general the lessons are rather traditional, meaning that the teacher gives pieces of information, often presenting the matter as something mysterious you can't easily reach. Though in most of the cases teachers are very clear and have an adequate tempo, things are often explained starting with theoretical concepts. 
Striking is the mix of th use of Zulu and English. Upto the third grade this seems to be allowed, but they also do it in the higher grades. I am wondering what pupils really need. Do they need English? Or is this only for the happy few who once leave this place and try to make their life in the bigger cities?

Very often the pupils have to read texts, words, questions, or even multiplications together and in a loud voice. When this concerns pronounciation of English words, control is impossible. At the other hand it gives a good feeling of togetherness.
They also have some rituals in spoken texts like greeting the teacher, telling her or him that they are all seated. Once pupils had to stand up and do some physical exercises to make them move a bit. Good idea.

So. We got a time table and I will co-operate with the English teacher Imelda. This week we'll try to be together in one lesson, dealing with the same subject, but with our own method. I am eager to know whether this will work.

It may be interesting to know that the project here is called Live4Now, meaning that you must live now and make your dreams come true, and in this case - the dreams of these children. You can find more information on www.live4now.co.uk or www.live4now.co.sa

Also interesting to see could be the place where I live. The project and the people who lead the project, Elton and Melissa, got housing for themselves, for the volunteers and for the project in www.wildebeesecolodge.com  Everybody can come here and find a good accommodation, with swimming pool, restaurant, well-filled bar. An ecolodge is interested in nature and in charity.
Cheers.