Monday, by Katy and Tia

Today was our first day working in the Acholi Quarters and what an experience it has been. Met in the morning by the biggest smiles and cheers I've ever seen it's clear to see just how much we were anticipated – pressure or what. There is no denying that there were nerves on that bus this morning but that was quickly pushed aside with the children lining up outside. Teaching them all I could think was how it contrasted to back home. There was just an overwhelming sense of eagerness coming from the children, despite the lack of ability it was amazing to see their positive attitude and determination to achieve. After very long and amazing day, we travelled through the Acholi Quarters to the quarry - the main source of income. It is just a contrast to the gender equality at home, the women who work 13 hour days still have watch the children while the men play games, puts my life in a little perspective.

I worked in the small church with 28 children in the morning and 2 little babies who had to come ecause their siblings had to look after them all day even though they were only as young as 10 or 12. In the afternoon we had about 21 kids and one girl called Emily who had to look after her baby sibling. The kids were so eager to learn it's made me realsie how lucky I am going to school. It was daunting at first but by the end of it it felt like we could of given them anything and they would of loved it. The day went so well and the lessons ran smoothly even though there were a few hiccups like forgetting the PVA glue. I was so shocked by their level of intelligence as they could read and they all knew their alphabet. Overall it was an amazing day and the children were a joy.