School Visits

During our weeks here in Hungary we've been able to visit a number of the public schools.  Via blog some of you have come along with us to the village school in Monostoropati.  But we've also had visits to a couple of larger schools here in Tapolca too. 

In late October we visited Magdolna's school where the focus is mainly on preparing older students for the workplace.  Thus when we chatted with students in Magda's English class, all were boys with the exception of one girl training to be a shopkeeper's assistant.  It seemed that most of the boys present that day were hoping to be chefs.  Now this week we return to this same secondary/adult education school to do a Canada Day feature on Wednesday afternoon.

Looking back, we'd both agree that one of our most enjoyable school experiences ever, took place about ten days ago with a visit to the local, public fine arts school.  This unique school is located here in the heart of Tapolca and we had walked past the busy playground many times during our days here.  But on Wednesday, the 14th of November we were invited into the school to talk about Canada.  Thus we taught a group of 40 grade 8 students followed by another large group of grade 7 students.  Though quite shy and rather hesitant to speak English, most of the kids seemed genuinely interested in us and Canada.  Each class had a few boys bold enough to ask and answer questions.  Now when we see some of these same students out and about in town they are quick to acknowledge us and call us by name!

 

 

English teacher Erika has become a good friend. 

 

 

 

 

 

Such a happy learning place!

 

 

 

 

 

The afternoon following our teaching time, I returned to the city school while Ron carried on with duties out at the Monostoropati school.  What a treat to get in on some of their Fine Arts Heritage Day activities....music, folk dancing; weaving and spinning were just some of the options available to the children and teens that afternoon.  For sure I was impressed not only by the students, but also by the dedicated staff at this school.  The students there seemed happy and fully involved in their learning experience....very heart-warming to watch and observe!!