Baan Khao Na Nai School

Baan Khao Na Nai school is beautifully situated in the heart of breath-taking limestone mountains. You couldn't ask for more beautiful setting. Everyday, during my fifteen minute commute I couldn't help but laugh thinking that this is where I work. The lush jungle foliage whishes by mixed with row after row of rubber and banana trees as the sun breaks the horizon and spills golden light over the faces of the surrounding mountains. I would trade any salary for that drive. The school itself is beautiful in it's simplicity, three large blocks of classrooms, a cafeteria, a small library and the office. There is also accommadation for teachers in the far corner of the school where most of the teachers live. You can either choose to live in a house located across from the school or opt for a home stay with one of the local families. I would definitely recommend the latter as is it gives you a wonderful window into the lifestyle and culture of the area.  

The cafeteria (left) and the Batom classroom block (behind)

An average classroom

The Matayom classroom block

The football field in the front of the school is always occupied by the local boys

Students getting ready for their weekly Muay Thai Athletics; a creation of the school sports department

The Students

In short, the students here are amazing, spirited and challenging. Don't forget, this is a rural rubber farming town so learning the English language has about as many immediate applications as learning latin in North America. That said they are all very bright kids, they just need a talented and motivated teacher to make English fun and engaging for them. At the end of the day English is an extremely valuable asset in today's globalized world, so staying motivated and meeting the challenge will result in a very rewarding experience. Whether you teach Batom (grades 1-6) or Matayom (Grades 7-10) you will love all of your students and share some really memorable moments.

My Matayom 2 class (grade 8) had some of my favorite students, they were all outspoken, energetic and as you can see, hilarious!

There are always those kids that are too cool for school

But that doesn't mean that they don't love their teacher

Kirsty and my Matayom 1 class after we finished the last lesson of the year

Bank (center) and I laugh as we play a quiz game on the last day of class

What to be a volunteer?

Have you ever felt confused, excited, humbled and inspired all at the same time. If you haven't then you may not have had a truly cultural experience yet. I felt this way almost everyday for the 2 months that I spent in the small town of Khao Na Nai in the south of Thailand.