The first 8 school years in Malawi are called Standards. Standards 1-5 make up primary school.
Unlike the West, you cannot guess which Standard a child is in by their age. If a six year old arrives at Home of Hope and has never been to school, they will begin in Preschool, to prepare them for school.
Primary school lessons are taught in Chichewa (the local language). They learn Chichewa, English, Maths and sports.
They all enjoy their lessons. Like elsewhere, some children are quicker at school than others. In addition, children who were malnourished in their formative years will be behind other children their age. However, with a little extra help, they are well on their way.
Todd Phiri, Standard 1, aged 5
Todd also came to Home of Hope when he was just one day old in his father's arms. Todd's mother died during childbirth. His father lives nearby in Matutu, but is ill and unable to take care of him.
We encourage extended family to interact with our orphans. They are welcome to visit the orphans here and we often send the children home to their villages during school holidays. For Todd this doesn't happen. We love having him with us during his school holidays.
Todd works hard at school. When he grows up he would like to become a teacher.
