Story Telling
by Hannah Turian

After travelling to Chiang Rai with a girl I didn’t really know (Mr Libby) we were greeted at the airport by Joy and Tum and taken to Rajaprajanugroh 24 school. The school was beautiful and much bigger than I expected. For the first week I worked alongside my local teacher Kam and assisted in her English lessons. The students were very kind and eager to learn, with a focus being on their pronunciation of words. Whilst the classrooms were sometimes very hot, the lessons were enjoyable, and it was very rewarding watching the children grow more confidence. Outside the classroom we had a great time playing sports with the students and developing friendships with them, as well as building relationships with other volunteers. I really enjoyed seeing the local area from temples to Aunty Cs. Our weekends were also a highlight of my trip, getting to visit Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai, particularly enjoying our visit to the elephant sanctuary, and experiencing Thai nightlife. 

My time at RPK.24 was one of the best months of my life and I am very grateful to VSA and the school for the opportunity to help share my language with the students and staff and for the opportunity to make new friendships. I will miss all the students and staff who became our friends over the month and were so welcoming to us. RPK.24 and all the people there hold a very special place in my heart, and I hope to see everyone again someday. 

ICL camp@RPK24 Phayao, Thailand 1-29 July 2022