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Yesterday we went to visit two deaf schools; Basak Elementary School for the Deaf and First High School
For the Hearing Impaired. First, it was the elementary school and it only consisted of one room, with about 20 children. What was more of a shock, was that the age varied from 6 to 17. They were taught together. I decided to talk to the 17 year old, and asked basic questions about family, age and his name. He seemed to struggle, and because of his low ability, he was put into the elementary school. Of course, there were only basic resources, a blackboard, a few desks and chairs. All the children I asked in the class come from a hearing family, which was interesting.
Then, we went to visit First High School. I was greeted by a few friendly teenagers who were doing some gardening. The age varied from 15 - 18. I then went inside and saw a bigger class. To my shock, the age varied from 18 - 28. To see a 28 year old lady still in education astounds me, I would think at that age, you would have a permanent full time job, maybe even married and have children. I asked about what they learn, they responded with very basic answers; math, science and English. Interestingly, the teacher was hearing herself but she was able to sign.
I was gutted I didn't see the school I would be teaching in for the next 10 weeks, but I'm looking forward to start my placement on Monday! It was supposed to be today but due to the bad storm, I didn't have work today. I'm waiting to hear whether I have work tomorrow or not!
Living with two Filipino volunteers as well as a Filipino family has been difficult, as I have no one from the UK to discuss cultural differences or to communicate with, without struggling to explain things in FSL. But I guess there are advantages, I learnt how to hand wash my clothes today and it took me 2 hours! I never realised it was such hard work! I'm grateful for washing machines! I couldn't lift the bucket which was full of water, but my Filipino counterpart was able to lift it up no problem! I guess they gain big muscles from hand washing!
Me, Chelsea and Leanne went out for dinner to escape the rice we knew we would be having! It was worth it!
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