Life after Moncada & Valencia

Dear All

Firstly I’d like to apologize for my lack of communication with the outside world. We (Ed and I) couldn’t access internet until last Thursday afternoon (11/02) in our flat in Moncada and my computer couldn’t connect to the network at Schola (Moncada).

But now I’m back in Cardiff and life will soon go back to normal, despite the fact I haven’t seen any sheep yet.

I had an overall fruitful time in Spain - especially because of the weather and food. Learning/teaching-wise I have learnt a lot in many aspects and really have the sensation that I’m better qualified now. I haven’t ever taught teenagers and I had 2 small groups during the week (12-13 and 14-15 years old). This has greatly contributed to my personal experience, considering I only taught adults/young adults in the past, both in Brazil and in the UK.

I already said to Carolyn (UKLC) that Ed and I were privileged in matters of accommodation, in spite of the wi-fi problems: we were at literally 4 min walking distance from our school, the most spacious flat of all (!) and we had a Spanish flatmate, Nacho (Vet student) and Lana, his lovely Cocker-Spaniel, here they are:

Also, resources weren’t a problem at all. I know some of you faced/may face limited – or none (!) amount of photocopying/printing, but we were very well served indeed. Viva the Chalk!

There is a local café’ (Bar Valencia) close to Schola and I am very pleased to have met Senor Julio and his wife. He is an aficionado supporter of the Valencia FC and you can see pictures since 1971. In the first week he gave us a bag full of juicy oranges (naranjas) from his own production. Also, at least with me, we had good chatting all the time. Ah! I can’t forget to mention the ultra-delicious tortilla made by his wife that I bought 3 pieces. Absolutely wonderful – and nutritious! Oh my God, and the bocadillos... And a very nice Radio Rock Station too! Good repertoire all the time!

For the teachers who are now in Schola – Moncada, please send my best regards to Senor Julio and wife. Tell him that I couldn't say goodbye on Sunday because we left before he was open.

I would like to recommend the pizzeria Piccolina as well, just 15 metres from Schola. I know you're in Spain but they are lovely people and the dough is good.

I also would like to thank Carolyn for her promptly support when I most needed, even if via texts/skype and all the people at Schola in both school and office.

But the biggest thank you of all goes to all the students who attended my lessons and those of the other trainees’ also. People with different backgrounds and different life stories; people who believe in a better future. It's been my honour to be with you. Face to face, I was only yours. Each one has been a teacher for me, even if they still have a long way to travel on their journey to learning English.