Watamu

SDA School, Watamu

We went to Kenya in 2006 and had an amazing time at Voyager Hotel we went on many trips to get to know the real Kenya but were a little taken back when on a visit to a school we were encouraged by the tour reps to take sweets and hand them out of the window of the mini bus to the children who waited by the side of the tracks waiting for tourist. It did not feel right as these children were encouraged to beg rather than to get an education.  We did see one school and were amazed at the dedication of the teacher and how keen the children were to sing for us. When we asked why do they sing so well we were told that books and pens were limited and teaching them to sing did not take any resources your heart sinks when you hear this. What does the future hold for them?.  When we had an opportunity to go back to Kenya I was determined to find a school I could help and by chance found a lady called Sue Hayward who had set up a charity children of Watamu I was keen to see if the lady was as amazing as she sounded. Trust me she is! *smile* As Sue was in Watamu we had to go there and Turtle Bay Beach Club was great and we booked direct. Due to the troubles it was not easy getting there but  Sue and Turlte Bay Beach Club helped when we did there it was well worth it. 

Sue is an amazing Lady who's dedication has transformed the 700 children in the SDA schoolWatamu. Her children do not beg they have pride in themselves and their community. Sue and the work of the Headmaster Silas and his sister Rose has made the school sustainable and they are moving to the next project a happy house for the orphans of Watamu. You can read more about the school by following this link A visit to the school is a must and is only a 25 minute walk along the beach. Ask Tumu or Collins at Turtle bay beach club to arrange a trip or ask Hamish on the beach. Also ask to have a tuk tuk to bring you back to the hotel great fun. There are so many ways you can get involved and help I have enjoyed helping with the website and video. We hope to go back to see the school again and the happy House.
 
We walked along the beach from the Turtle Bay Hotel and soon found the school. From the beach approach, the first buildings you will encounter are the nursery and the kitchen. The play area is all sand – much the same throughout this area.  
The children begin school at 7am and the starting age is 2 years old. The first thing the very young ones learn is to speak in English as many come speaking only their tribal tongue. The day is very long for all of the children, but they are always happy, polite and very keen to attend school. If they are educated, they can get better jobs and a better future. All work extremely hard.  These are the lucky ones – they are grateful for the education they receive.  

Many students are sponsored to attend school (we sponsor Rukia and Calvin) Each sponsor parent receives letters and reports on the children. Without this support, many would be wandering the streets.

We sponsor Rukia and Calvin and have bought them bikes (£30)

It is possible to volunteer your time to assist in all kinds of ways at the school.  You could assist with the teaching and take a lesson for any of the classes. IT skills are always sought. There is a medical clinic opposite which would welcome professional help.

From our experience, the older children were fascinated about the country we live in. We told them about Stonehenge, which is close to us, the canal system which was used many years ago to move goods and the weather. The children were fascinated about our tales of ice, frost and snow, things they have never seen.  
We went around to all of the classrooms meeting the children and their teachers. Mr Silas is the headmaster. Rose deals with the office work and administration.  
In a small hut near the school kitchen, we found 2 ladies hard at work. The hut was where the school uniforms were made. Each child has a tie, white cotton shirt/ blouse, skirt or trousers and a PE kit supplied. Jumpers are also available for cooler days.  Yes cooler days about 23c!

Arrange a visit speak to the children and teachers. If possible help by working at the school, fundraising, sponsorship, donations and so so much more. You can make a difference to the children. Sue has and once you have met her and the children your life will never be the same *smile* See how you can help and don't forget to pass on your messages and photos of the school

Follow for photo gallery of the children

The children in a typical Kenyan school lesson