Chaos in the Classroom
Words are indistinguishable beneath the screams. Some of the children have taken shelter beneath tables. Others roll on the floor or lie where they have fallen. Chairs have been turned upside down; the classroom is …
Czeching in
The wind of change swept the conkers from the tree. I picked one up. It was a shiny, tangible memory of childhood. Its round reassurance spoke of school mornings and the wonder of this cool …
A Summer Souvenir
Has autumn arrived with you yet? Has it brought a cool crispness to the air? Have you pulled your jacket a little tighter around you? Let me warm you, then, with this summer souvenir. I …
Polishing Conversation
I would be lying to say I spent one week in Krakow and two weeks in Warsaw, although that is probably what I told you. I started in Krakow, that much is true. It was …
Sweden: Not Quite Perfect?
‘Do you see that rock?’ I asked, pointing straight ahead. ‘The big rock next to the other big rock. The one that’s surrounded by water. That’s where we’re headed.’ We were in an archipelago. All …
Phoenix City
Will you promise me something? I would like to ask this of you as my esteemed reader. It really is a very humble request. Promise me you won’t stop reading when I tell you where …
Ski Teacher Training
‘Hi, my name’s Rebecca and I’ll be your ski instructor today.’ Eight familiar faces smiled back at me encouragingly. Most of them still had the examination ahead of them. I have to admit, I wasn’t …
Travel: the other way round
‘What shall I play?’ There is a distinct unsteadiness in his movements as he approaches us and takes Florian’s recently vacated seat at the piano; no doubt he’s come directly from Hild Bede’s college bar …
Blue Hair and Bowler Hats
The sign on the door confuses me: PLEASE KNOCK LOUDLY is printed beside a man in a black bowler hat who seems to be in the act of kicking his way in. Cautious of …
The Final Chapter?
My year abroad is over. After twelve months in Russia and Austria, it’s time to return to Durham to complete my university degree. It would be a lie to say I have loved every minute …