Torquay teacher helps write a new chapter for Fijian students

A LOCAL teacher will head to Fiji next weekend to help boost the numeracy and English literacy of some of the South Pacific country’s young students, as part of a grassroots pilot program initiated by a fellow Victorian-based educator.

Torquay’s Jack Hannan will spend two weeks in Korotogo at the St Joan of Arc Primary School, a school with a more than 100-year history that caters to students from Prep to Year 8, often in classrooms of upwards of 50 learners.

Hannan said he jumped at the chance to volunteer and is looking forward to working with kids who are “genuinely excited to learn”, labelling the trip a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity.

“I’m really stoked to be able to do what I can,” he said.

Before he sets out next weekend, Hannan is hoping to raise funds to purchase a range of books and educational supplies to support these young learners in the classroom and foster a love of reading.

He is also inviting the Surf Coast community to donate suitable supplies.

 

 

Pens, pencils and standard exercise books are readily available to students at the school, Hannan said, whereas educational posters, literacy and numeracy workbooks and picture books are harder to come by.

Storage equipment, such as tubs, shelving and drawers are also welcome, as he works towards helping the school establish its very first library.

“The humble request that has come from the school is a range of picture books to help with basic literacy. I’ve already received some wonderful donations from some beautiful humans – we’ve got some chapter books that are aimed towards the younger readers, still with a few pictures throughout, and then into more of your classic stories with some nice, fun narratives.”

Hannan confirmed all funds raised would be put towards the purchase of supplies and covering the costs associated with transporting the items to the school.

Head to gofund.me/58319a2e