LiA Blog week 2
The second week of my Leadership in Action placement began with a well-deserved break, allowing me ample time to recharge and reflect on the enriching experiences from my first week in Ghana. I spent Monday absorbing the beauty of Ghanaian life, preparing myself for the journey ahead.
Tuesday marked the beginning of an exciting trip to Tarkwa. The extensive journey revealed the captivating diversity of Ghana as I passed through bustling cities and serene rural areas. The vibrant street life, colourful markets, and friendly locals made the long drive not just tolerable but enjoyable and educational. Arriving in Tarkwa, I was greeted warmly by students whose excitement instantly made me feel welcomed and valued, setting an encouraging atmosphere for my stay.
On Wednesday, my teaching responsibilities commenced at Tarkwa Breman Girls’ School. I interacted enthusiastically with Year 6 students, leading lessons in standard form and factorisation. Witnessing their curiosity and eagerness to learn was incredibly motivating, enhancing my teaching approach. It was rewarding to watch them grasp complex mathematical concepts with remarkable ease, reinforcing my belief in their potential and the importance of education in empowering young minds.
The educational journey intensified on Thursday as I taught classes to year 8’s, covering algebraic expressions and the Pythagorean theorem. Later, I instructed Year 6’s on calculating areas and perimeters. Observing students approach these tasks independently highlighted their innate capability and the strong foundations laid by their teachers. Following the classes, I joined a staff training session, where I gained valuable insights into the pedagogical methods employed at the school, deepening my understanding of educational best practices in a rural context.
Friday was an engaging and community-oriented day. I supported the school's farmcard system by taking photos of parents and children, emphasising the vital role community plays in educational success. Later, I bridged cultural exchanges by introducing students to UK music and personal photographs, creating an atmosphere filled with curiosity and joy. In turn, the students eagerly taught me some phrases in Twi, the local dialect, enriching our interaction and making the experience truly reciprocal and memorable.
Throughout week two, I not only taught but also learned immensely from the students and the community. These interactions highlighted the profound impact of mutual cultural exchange and education, leaving me eager to continue contributing meaningfully during my stay in Tarkwa. As I reflected at the week's end, I realised the depth of personal growth and community bonding achieved through each teaching session and conversation, marking this week as particularly significant in my Leadership in Action journey.
Overall, week two was an inspiring blend of teaching, cultural immersion, and personal development. It strengthened my connection with the community, reaffirmed my commitment to educational empowerment, and deepened my appreciation for the vibrant culture and resilient spirit found in Tarkwa.
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Wonderful to see you spreading your enthusiasm for maths with eager young participants! I am sure they enjoyed and were inspired by the experience as much as you were!