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Polly Fryer, wife of a Khanya trustee and almost retired school nurse, returned to Amasango school in February 2019. This was my second visit to the school so I was looking forward to catching up with some of the children. I spent my time with year 4; all classes are dependent on level of attainment so there was an age range of 12–17. I found the classes challenging this time as the teachers come in and out, and there were times when I found myself in charge..even teaching a maths class (when I was very grateful for whatsapp and not much time difference so I could consult more qualified family members!). I also did vision testing which the children were very keen to participate in! There is a charity that provides glasses for township children. In two years have seen a difference, the sewing and pottery projects are amazing displaying skill and aptitude. Was it worth it? A good question to ask is does two weeks volunteering make a difference? Well, the answer is yes. Any time spent with a child is valuable, that bit of time sitting on a wall chatting, noticing a new hairstyle (maybe I will get the braids next time!) and encouraging the work to be finished to achieve those all important red ticks. The pupils are provided with breakfast when they arrive which is a key provision to help concentration and attention in the morning, this could be the first meal since lunch at school the previous day, there is a sandwich at break (Jam and peanut butter)and a hot lunch with fruit before going home.  The pupils get a food parcel once a month, (maize, rice, sugar, two stock cubes, cooking oil and sunlight soap) which used to be weekly but has been reduced due to limited funding .
I hope more people will visit this remarkable school and, like me, be inspired and uplifted by the experience.
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