Scots' Aid Is Lifeline In Squalor Of Shanties

Mar 23 2008

SCOTS volunteer Yvonne Angus has spent two months helping children from the settlements learn to read.

Psychology graduate Yvonne, 22, of Elgin, said: "I knew I wanted to work with children but didn't really know what career path to take.

"I also wanted to travel but was nervous about going by myself, so volunteering seemed a good way to do it.

"I learned about i-to-i online and wanted to do their Help2Read project, which aims to help reduce illiteracy.

"I worked with six children every day and really enjoyed it.

"I saw a big improvement in their reading abilities and confidence.

"Before I came I'd never really worked with younger children, so I have learned a lot from it too.

"But it was awful to see the living conditions in the townships.

"The contrast between white, richer areas and townships is unbelievable. In some areas there is literally a wall or a fence between the two.

"In the townships, people are all so friendly and make the most of what they have, which is really lovely to see."

One of Yvonne's charges was 14-year-old Bradley. In Scotland, boys his age are studying Shakespeare but he was tackling a Mr Men child's book.

Before working with Yvonne, he could barely make out a word.

Now he devoured each page with ease - thrilled at finally being able to understand the confusing jumble of letters.

He said: "I liked having Yvonne teach me, she was nice, and my reading has got much better. I enjoy books now and want to teach when I leave school."

Yvonne is now heading for Namibia, through Botswana and into Zimbabwe, before flying home next month.

For more information on volunteering in South Africa, visit www.i-to-i.com