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Interview with Francesca
Cherished Memories, Heartfelt Connection Volunteering at Bali's Children Center
"My only regret is not being able to teach more. This experience has shown me the joy and fulfillment that comes from contributing to others' education, and for that, I am immensely grateful." Francesca, Birkbeck, University of London, Msc Organizational Psychology
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For Francesca, a dedicated professional from the UK, an eight-week volunteering stint at NGO Preschool and Children Center in Kerobokan turned into an extraordinary journey of learning, growth, and heartfelt connections. With a background in corporate finance, Francesca traded the comforts of her office job for the vibrant classrooms of Bali, driven by a passion for education and a desire to make a difference. Little did she know, this experience would not only enrich the lives of the children she taught but also profoundly impact her own, unveiling a potential new career path and deepening her appreciation for the simple joys of teaching. This is her story.
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A Warm Welcome
Teaching English in Indonesia was an incredible experience. Despite the fact that it took some time to adjust to the weather and condition, I was greeted every morning by the children with enthusiastic "hello Miss," smiles, and big hugs. The students' eagerness to learn a foreign language was remarkable, especially considering they were also learning Bahasa Indonesia, their cultural language, and Mandarin. My days were filled with teaching new words, playing games, and singing songs. The students amazed me daily with their ability to learn and remember. Their gratitude for my teaching, both from the teachers and students, was a constant reminder of the privilege of my background. Outside of English lessons, I attempted to learn Bahasa alongside the children and managed to pick up a few words. The teaching community welcomed me with open arms, despite the language barrier and our different backgrounds.
Integration and Daily Activities
It took about a week or two to feel integrated into the school community. Learning the children's names, understanding the daily schedule, and grasping what was expected of me helped me feel like part of the team. My role included delivering English lessons for classes A & B using worksheets centered on weekly themes such as technology and the environment. I used flashcards, games, and the whiteboard to facilitate lessons. Teaching basic English like the alphabet, shapes, numbers 1-10, and colors to the playgroup through flashcards and songs was a joy. I also assisted and observed in the classroom during other activities and accompanied the children on a school trip to Bali Bird Park to celebrate the end of the term.
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Challenges and Reflections
There were moments when I felt underutilized, particularly on days when I did not teach any English or only taught for a short period. The program felt "light touch," and I wished for more teaching opportunities. Despite this, I appreciated the program's flexibility, allowing me ample time to explore Bali. Be prepared for a lot of singing with the playgroup; knowing a few English songs for young children is helpful. Stickers are a great motivational tool for the children. Understanding the dress code for different days of the week can be beneficial for preparation. Learning some basic Bahasa can significantly enhance the experience and communication with teachers and children. Be ready for numerous photographs and videos. Adapt to the basic classroom facilities and hot environment quickly.
Support and Guidance
I felt well-supported by Ms. Rindang, who kept me updated on school news and ensured I was included in the team. The volunteering opportunity provided a hands-on teaching experience, allowing me to discover a potential new career path. The children's enjoyment of my lessons was a rewarding validation of my efforts.
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Weekend: Adventures and Culinary Delights
I made the most of my weekends, exploring Bali and its surroundings. A highlight was a trip to Komodo National Park in Flores, where I saw Komodo dragons and breathtaking scenery. My favorite food experiences included babi guling, bakso, nasi/mie goreng, sate ayam, and beef rendang. The beaches at Pandawa, Diamond, and Kelingking were stunning, with Lombok also offering amazing beaches. Despite the occasional bout of "Bali belly," my time in Bali has been filled with incredible experiences.
Volunteering at the NGO Preschool and Children Center has been a life-changing experience. It has inspired me to pursue a TEFL qualification and explore teaching opportunities in Indonesia. My only regret is not being able to teach more. This experience has shown me the joy and fulfillment that comes from contributing to others' education, and for that, I am immensely grateful.
For anyone considering volunteering, I wholeheartedly recommend it—it's an opportunity to give back, learn, and grow in ways you never imagined. Bali Internships made this enriching journey possible, and I encourage everyone to consider their programs. Feel free to connect with me via email or social media for any questions or insights about the program and Bali.
By Billy Bagus
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