One thing I didn’t expect in the middle of Africa was some quality professional development training. We received two days-worth on ‘Authentic Enquiry and Disciplinary Literacy’. A whole new world of jargon opened up to describe literacy features (mentor authors, graphical brushstrokes, linear rays and crafting leads) which are familiar to Americans. Brits I discovered, have their own unique set of terms for the same features.

At 4:30pm on Thursdays the "Tesfye Birhan" girls arrive at Bingham. These girls come from the local area of Kolfe. Four younger girls were sought to join the group; five not so young girls arrived. One is 13 and in year 4. This week I attempted to assess the understanding of these girls - where is that TEFL course when you need it! I did have a helpful Ethiopian sixth former nearby though. Afterwards we took the group to the swings. One girl looked truly terrified to be sitting on the moving seat - she may never have seen one before. We also played ball games. Despite their grubby, torn, mis-fitting clothing it was delightful to see their smiling faces.

"Field Days" happen here at Bingham annually. It is a really big event with a lovely carnival atmosphere. Families travel long distances from the countryside to allow their children to take part in sports and athletics for 4-18 year olds. I was standing by the take-over point in the 4 x 100m relay when a team of eight 16 year old girls arrived for the event. They all held hands in a circle. I assumed they were going to do some kind of cheer leading chant; instead they bowed their heads and one of them prayed that they would all support each other in the race. This place is full of surprises.