RPK24: A Thai Journey That Nearly Didn't Happen

The entire experience almost didn’t happen.

I received my Thai visa just hours before my flight, a nerve wrecking, emotional moment I’ll never forget. I had bags packed, documents ready, and hope hanging by a thread. And then suddenly, I was on a plane, heart racing, headed to a country. I had never seen before, to teach in a school I had only read about, Rajaprajanugroh 24 a Boarding School in north of Thailand.

Over the next three weeks, that place would become more than just a school, it would become a second home. RPK24 is a boarding school tucked away in the peaceful countryside, where the classrooms are filled with warmth, curiosity, and a quiet energy. I was there with 13 other volunteers from England and Germany, and together we formed a team dedicated to helping Thai students learn English in fun, engaging ways.

From day one, we knew that traditional classroom methods wouldn’t be enough. These students learned best when they were laughing, moving, and playing, so we taught through games, music, roleplay, storytelling, and even art. Each day brought a new challenge and a new opportunity to connect with students, not just as teachers but as friends. The kids were shy at first. Some barely spoke. But with time, we saw their confidence grow. I’ll never forget the moment one of my students, who had hardly said a word at first, stood up in front of the class and introduced himself in English, with a huge smile on his face. That was the magic of RPG24: transformation through trust.

Our days were packed with activities, lesson planning, and teaching, but the nights were something special too. Whether we were sharing stories, Chilling together, or just lying under the stars, those evenings with my fellow volunteers created memories I’ll hold forever. We came from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds, but Thailand brought us together. What I learned in those three weeks can't be summed up in a certificate or a photo album. I learned adaptability, empathy, and the joy of giving without expecting anything in return. The students taught me just as much as I taught them.

Thailand, with its kindness, its energy, and the beautiful spirit of RPK24, will always have a piece of my heart. And to think, it all started with a visa approved just in time.