Musing about Malawi

06 May 2019 – This is an imported page from an old blog I kept during my travels to Malawi. Next month (June 2019) as part of this year’s Norwich-Dedza Partnership exchange, teachers from Malawi will be visiting the UK. So in celebration and preparation for that, I will be re-blogging the thoughts I made during my visit in 2013.

You can find an index of all the 2013 Malawi blog entries here. Zikomo!

“Musing about Malawi”

1st May 2013; Framingham Earl, UK

It’s not long before I head off to Malawi… Where on Earth has the time gone? Time truly flies when you are kept busy, and all those who work with or look after children know all too well that this is true! I still here trying to think of what to type; with a to-do list which stretches into the mental horizon… but here goes…

: I use my travels to learn more myself and enhance my teaching. I have been to many places, including Iceland, South Africa and the USA. Here I stand in front of the famous earthquake-resistant Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco, USA.

My name is Mr Steve Rackley, and I’m a high-school teacher. It’s not that bad, actually I quite like it and dare-say even enjoy my job! Brushing the bureaucracy aside, I feel that despite its challenges it is a very rewarding vocation. And I teach Geography. (Yes, those lessons involving colouring pencils and video upon video!)

But the argument for Geography as a vital subject for our youngsters is for another day (or blog). This is all about how I came to be trekking off to Malawi, and how I, the school and my colleagues are using the experience to benefit youngsters both here in the UK and there.

I am a firm believer that, as a Geography teacher, you cannot teach about place unless you are knowledgeable about it. And while I read copious articles, watch many documentaries and listen to other people’s experiences, nothing beats experience. I see travel as a necessity for my job (I wish it was in the job description!). So when I was offered a place on the Norwich-Dedza partnership’s annual trip to Malawi, I simply couldn’t refuse.

This hopes to document the learning journey that not only will take place in Malawi, but that has already taken place in preparation, and will continue upon my return. I really hope you will join me.