Arriving at the school all my doubts were immediately banished. Outside are palm trees and paddy fields, and inside I found the best welcome I had experienced yet in India. I felt like a part of the family from the first minute.

All the children offer bright smiles and a 'hello uncle'. They are (mostly) well behaved and very curious. Some take on the role of class leader and imposed discipline much better than I could. They amuse themselves by creating dance routines, singing Christmas carols, playing cricket and building model houses or shop diplays. This is creative play which is being eroded by the advance of the TV screen.

Although I had no musical knowledge to offer, I taught Science and English. This experience was both humbling and a boost to my confidence. Teaching Science to children forces you to reaffirm your basic concepts and renewed my love for the subject.

We had the children banging pans across the yard to demonstrate that light travels faster than sound. I made them act out cold, warm and hot water molecules. In fact, we even had yoga sessions on the grass!

These children are so eager to learn. The school would benefit greatly from more teachers and facilities. Inviting Western teachers to the school not only strengthens the teaching, but also improves the children's English by leaps and bounds through informal conversations. Unfortunately my Bengali hasn't much improved!

Just as important as the teaching is the after-school guidance. The kids need to be told that India -and the world- is theirs. They should be given the guidance to persue education as far as their personal circumstance allows. The work of everyone involved with the school cannot be praised highly enough. Every personal sacrifice made contributes to the lasting legacy of Mathieson Music School. The children are given hope in their especially tough lives. Keep it up!