On Friday 30th May, Jane from Chogoria, Kenya, arrived in the UK. Jane is a teacher
at our link school Kairuni Special School. Jane’s visit, along with 7 other Kenyan teachers visiting other local schools, was funded through the British Council Connecting Classrooms project. We have had links with Kairuni for 7 years and funding through the British Council has enabled 7 Westfield and and 8 Kairuni teachers to visit one another schools over the years. None of this would be possible without the expert support of Martyn and Josie Hastings, a Weymouth couple who have been running 
charity projects in Chogoria for many years.
During the week Jane spent time in classes and got to know how Westfield works with our children. She was able to share her knowledge of Kenya, teach phrases and songs, and demonstrate how Kenyan children learn. During the evenings she stayed with different members of staff and got to know the local area – she even tried line dancing at the Ocean room!
Jane thoroughly enjoyed her first visit to the UK. She took so many ideas back with her to Kairuni where many of the children have similar learning difficulties to those in Westfield. She was thrilled to receive resources which staff had gathered for her – they will make such a difference to the children she teaches.
At the end of the week, Westfield hosted a concert to raise funds for the Baragu Sub-Health Centre in Chogoria. Pupils from Westfield, Wyke Primary, St Andrew’s Primary, Conifers primary, Budmouth and The Thomas Hardye School came together with the Weymouth Ukeleleans to put on a fantastic night of entertainment, raising over £600 towards the cost of connecting electricity to the health centre. The Kenyan visitors were overwhelmed by the talent of our children and the generosity of parents.
Thanks to all who made the evening such a success.
If you are interested in supporting orphaned children in Chogoria or getting involved in fundraising for projects in the area, please contact Martyn & Josie Hastings on Martyn845@aol.com
