first-class time at kran

By Scott, Student Teacher

For the second year of my Primary Education degree at Canterbury Christ Church University, I needed to complete an Alternative Learning Placement (ALE). This involved exploring an educational environment different to one in a mainstream setting. 

I decided on KRAN for two reasons: the first being that some of its representatives gave an interesting talk at Christ Church, and the second (if I’m being perfectly honest) was that the KRAN office was only a few minutes’ walk away from where I lived! Little did I know my choice at that time, partly based on convenience, would turn out to be a blessing due to the great time I was going to have.

Before KRAN, I had completed placements in two primary schools, so I hoped this one would provide me with a completely new experience. One thing that intrigued me about KRAN was the fact I had never worked in a place like it before and I had never taught a refugee or asylum seeker. Also, the possibility of some of the students being the same age or even older than me was new.

Any apprehension I had was gone within the first minutes of walking through the KRAN door - everyone from the staff to the students were welcoming and friendly. Not only this, but the eagerness from all the students to learn was something I admired and added to my mission to help them improve in whatever task was being completed. 

I saw first hand the great education given to these guys, whether it was focused on their English and Maths skills, or educational trips such as those to the Beaney museum and to my university (a coincidence!). These experiences for the KRAN students were more than just educational, the enjoyment they had was clear for me to see and I know they were left with great memories.

I would like to thank everyone at KRAN for the invaluable experience they gave me - one that I will take with me throughout my teaching career. A special mention to class teachers Kate, Kathy and Bushra, plus all the amazing students I met. 

Thank you.