Advice from volunteers for future volunteers:

• Be flexible and prepared to do anything, rather than what you thought you were going to do
• Language can be a problem. For example, as Xhosa is the first language in South Africa, many instructions are given in this and a large proportion of teachers use it as their main teaching language. In addition, English accents are very different from South African English and this can confuse students. It is important that volunteers are aware of this, as it can be problematic for students in learning situations
• Many resources are not only limited but outdated. Students are required to purchase all their books and equipment, so the provision of calculators and posters for classrooms is invaluable. In fact, any kind of pictures and prints to brighten up classroom walls are an asset
• If you have criticisms, make sure they are constructive. They might be right and you wrong
• It is helpful if volunteers could bring photos of their families and homes to show the students, plus any other visual aids. Books may be heavy, but one or two illustrated books about the UK are always useful to help create more awareness
• Remember that when you have gone, they will still be there
• Any volunteers with data handling skills are of great help. If you can, it is worthwhile taking a memory stick with you with, for instance, maths worksheets and other educational activities on it. These will be well used
• Don't forget the power of mutual support