Peruvian Odyssey

June 18th, 2009 by Michael Barnett

In less than two weeks I will be flying out of Auckland en route to Cusco, Peru, where I will spend the next eight weeks teaching English through a programme run by MaximoNivel. The idea of volunteering had been on my mind for several years and my decision to jump in came late last year, after I returned from a holiday in Europe, which was wonderful in some respects but lacked real purpose. I decided that my next venture abroad should have a purpose other than traveling around and seeing sights and I am sure my assignment in Cusco will provide me with that and more.

I signed up to the programme in November last year and I have spent the last few months preparing for my assignment by learning the basics of Spanish and giving a little thought as to how I would go about teaching English to Spanish speaking people. I have to admit to having some trepidation regarding the task given my lack of teaching experience, but as the time of my departure nears those fears are disappearing and I can’t wait to get started. I have had some great help along the the way. Tony Ilot of Wellington High School has given instruction and got me to the point where I have a basic understanding of Espanol. I can say some basic greetings, ask a few questions and I have even constructed some written inquiries in Espanol to my hosts at MaximoNivel and made myself understood. My young Spanish friends Pelyo, Alva and Noelia have also helped and given me encouragement in this regard. As for teacher training, young Kathy, the daughter of my lifelong friend Wal, has been a great support and supplied me with some teaching aids and ideas for my task ahead. Also fellow adventurer Phil’s fatherly advice on taking care of my health is appreciated. Finally, I must acknowledge Libby at GVN, who has been there to give me help and got me started on writing this journal.

Yo tengo mi billete y inyeccions. Now all there is left to do is pack my bags and say farewell to Sue, family and friends before flying out on I July, first stop Santiago Chile, where I will stay four days and nights with the family of Alejandro, another of my young latin friends. This will be my first opportunity to practice my Espanol outside the class room!!!

Hasta proximo tiempo

Michael