The Student Volunteers Oman Scheme

Summary

The Sultan School in Muscat hosts 1,000 students, including 60 scholars from Oman’s interior, supported by British student volunteers. Volunteers from the British Omani Society come to experience Oman’s culture and education system. The program provides a chance to improve language skills, interact with diverse students, and explore Oman’s natural beauty. Volunteers participate in a range of activities from teaching PE and maths to helping with the school production. The program fosters cultural exchange, with students eager to learn about different cultures and practices. A call for new volunteers encourages others to join the adventure in September or January.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Sultan School in Muscat hosts 1,000 pupils from across Oman, including 60 scholars from Oman’s interior each year.
• 😀 British student volunteers, supported by the British Omani Society, travel to Oman for a life-changing experience.
• 😀 Volunteers, like Elizabeth and Manon, have expressed excitement and joy about their time in Oman, especially appreciating the kindness and hospitality of the Omani people.
• 😀 Initially, the volunteers felt overwhelmed by the size of the school, but were immediately welcomed and felt like part of a big family.
• 😀 The volunteers work with students ranging from Year 3 to Year 4, as well as boarding house students, participating in a variety of educational activities.
• 😀 The volunteers enjoy outdoor activities like 'Wy walks,' which involve climbing and swimming in Oman’s natural landscapes.
• 😀 Volunteers assist with a variety of school subjects, from PE lessons to math, and even extracurricular activities like helping with the school production of Mary Poppins.
• 😀 One of the most cherished aspects of the experience is interacting with the students, who are eager to learn about different cultures, especially British culture.
• 😀 The volunteers value the opportunity to improve their Arabic language skills during their time in Oman.
• 😀 Despite the challenges of being away from home for 3 months, many volunteers feel a strong connection to Oman and would love to stay longer.
• 😀 The Sultan School is preparing to welcome its 100th student volunteer in January 2024, inviting more young people to join the experience and contribute to the school community.

Q & A

What is the Sultan School in Muscat known for?

The Sultan School in Muscat is home to 1,000 pupils from all over Oman, including 60 scholars who come from Oman's interior each year.

Who supports the British student volunteers at the Sultan School?

The British student volunteers are supported by the British Omani Society, which sends them to Oman for a unique experience.

What were the initial reactions of the British student volunteers upon arrival at the Sultan School?

The British student volunteers were initially overwhelmed by the size of the school, but they felt welcomed by the teachers and students, creating a sense of family.

What type of activities do the British student volunteers engage in at the Sultan School?

The volunteers engage in various activities, including teaching PE lessons, helping with math, and participating in weekend trips like hiking and swimming in Oman’s landscapes.

What is one of the highlights of the volunteers' time in Oman?

One of the highlights for the volunteers is the unique bonding experience with the boarding students and learning more about Oman’s culture.

Why did some volunteers choose to come to Oman?

Some volunteers came to Oman to improve their Arabic language skills and experience life in the Middle East, particularly in a culturally rich and welcoming environment.

What makes the Sultan School a unique place in the Middle East?

The Sultan School is uniquely situated in Oman, close to places like Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen, offering an opportunity for cultural exchange and learning about diverse traditions.

How do the students at the Sultan School feel about learning from the British volunteers?

The students at the Sultan School are excited to learn from the British volunteers, eager to increase their knowledge and learn about different cultures and traditions.

What extracurricular activity did one of the volunteers help with?

One volunteer helped with the school production of 'Mary Poppins,' showcasing their involvement in extracurricular activities at the school.

How long has Laura Griffin been working at the Sultan School?

Laura Griffin has been working at the Sultan School for 20 years and is looking forward to welcoming the 100th student volunteer in January 2024.