Alicia (Nepal)

Last summer I travelled to Nepal to volunteer with HELP (The Helambu Education and Livelihood Partnership), teaching English in a school in Bhirkharka, Helambu. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that has given me some unforgettable memories.

After spending a few days sight-seeing in Kathmandu, I travelled to Bhirkharka, where I I taught children ranging from ages 3 to 14 at Shree Satdhara School. What struck me from the first moments teaching there was that despite their low level of English skills, the children had never-ending enthusiasm. They were always keen to learn with the new methods of teaching that they weren’t used to, and especially loved playing games that involved passing an inflatable globe, matching up pictures and words, or drawing pictures. I was very impressed by the rate at which they picked up vocabulary, but the main aspect of teaching that I found rewarding was how their confidence to speak English and contribute to class activities increased throughout my stay. It was refreshing to see their enthusiasm for education, especially in the poor conditions that the earthquake left behind.

Not only were the students keen to learn, but so were the teachers. Break times were often spent in conversation over English or alternative methods of teaching, allowing them to practice and develop. During my stay, I also got to stay at some of the teacher’s houses in different areas of Helambu up to an hour and a half’s walk away from the school! Around these areas, we got to do a lot of sightseeing – my favourite sight being Palri Padma Odsal Ling.

For me, the highlight of my trip was the way in which I was able to become part of the community. Living with my host family, who I’m still in contact with today, was an amazing experience. From watching and helping with day-to-day activities to singing and dancing in the Janai festival on the last day of my visit, I got to experience genuine Nepali culture and make long-lasting friendships. Everyone in the village was extremely welcoming and friendly, and it really felt like one giant family.

Bhirkharka was hit very badly by the earthquake, with all of the buildings in the village being destroyed and people losing their lives. It was amazing to see the fast work that HELP had done in rebuilding the entire school, allowing the children to continue on with their education. I felt very lucky to be able to be a part of the continuing development of the community and assist with what has been an extremely successful charity so far.

Following my placement, I travelled to Chitwan National Park where I spent 4 days doing fun activities such as jungle walks, elephant bathing and canoeing. It was a great way to end what was a truly unforgettable trip!

Arriving back at university, I was really excited to continue working with HELP through the Cambridge University society CU HELP and I am now working as co-president of CU-HELP, organising information talks and publicising the programme to prospective volunteers next year.