By Cleo Gilfillan
Special to the Observer
(London, England) – My name is Cleo Gilfillan, I am 11 years old. I live in England (London) and recently my family and I had a holiday in Nevis. My grandmother lives there and we went to visit her. My cousin Jasmine arranged to do her work experience at Charlestown Primary School whilst we were there. Because we were staying for one month, my mother arranged for me to attend school. Now I would like to share my experience of attending school in Nevis with you.
I attended Charlestown Primary School whilst I was there. The first thing I was astonished about, was how nice the teachers were. They made me feel very welcome. I was in grade 6 class 2. I was feeling nervous at first, because everyone was staring at me. The teacher then introduced me to the rest of the class.
The children were curious about me and asked lots of questions. I settled in quickly and made lots of new friends. My favourite part was when I made best friends and we would play on the giant field and laugh together.
I would wake up each morning looking forward to going to school. I was surprised about bringing a lunch kit, because at my school in England they cook lunch for us, but sometimes if we want to we can bring a lunch kit.
The people I was closest to were: Jametta, Christina, O’neisha, Sazzy and Kanessah. We would spend lunchtime dancing, talking, racing and playing catch. We had lots of fun.
The thing I didn’t like about the school was that children get beatings for being naughty. In England that is illegal. I felt sorry for anyone who got a beating. There were a few who would tease me and tried to bully me but I stood up for myself and did not put up with it.
I enjoyed history because I was learning the history of Nevis. I liked P.E because we got to run and do cross country.
When I was leaving I felt sad and so did my friends. They gave me their mobile phone numbers and I told them I would miss them too. The teachers were sorry to see me go as well. My mother is talking about going to live in Nevis. I would like to live there as well not just to be with my friends but with my grandmother too. And to enjoy the beautiful sight and the weather.
I would like to finish by saying thank you to Mrs. Hodge. And to the head teacher and the rest of the staff at Charlestown Primary School, for allowing me to have this experience and meet new friends.
