My Last Day At Yoshiwa Primary School

Yoshiwa, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan - 14th March 2007

After two years teaching the children at Yoshiwa Primary School, it was time to say farewell to them. We had our last English lessons together and seeing how they have progressed since I first started teaching them, I was so glad that I could leave knowing that all the kids had got something out of the lessons.

After lunch, I played a game with the year 5 and 6 students outside which really got me running on my feet! In the afternoon, the school gathering in the gym for graduation practise but beforehand they held a small farewell ceremony for me. I was seated at the very front while the principal gave a speech about the last 2 years I had been there which followed by a short speech by one of the year 4 students which had sweet words about how much she had learnt about English. Finally I gave a short speech encouraging the students to take every chance they can to learn another language and perhaps one day, do what I have, and head overseas to another country and emerge yourself in the country's history and culture.

The record breaking snowfalls of 2005/2006, driving on iced-up roads 500m above sea-level, walking through the playground with snow up to my knees in minus degree temperatures and playing games such as onigoko(chasy) with the kids on hot and humid summer days will remain some of the most memorable experiences and times of my life in Japan.