My name is Sophie Shugg and I have just spent 5 months volunteering at V.S.N.  Looking back at my time here I realise how much I have experienced.  I have been given the opportunity to not only teach at the school but also be involved in many celebrations, festivals, weddings, birthdays, feasts, and general everyday family life.  For those of you who are lucky enough to get the opportunity to visit V.S.N you will instantly be struck with a sense of love, warmth, and a quiet calmness. You are greeted at the school gates by smiling faces of children who are so eager to get to school they arrive at 8:30 when school starts at 10:00.  The parents are greeting you with countless invitations welcoming you into their homes.  The teachers are so appreciative to have you there and treat you like another family member.  Surendra has created a school which is considered a home to all that attend.  The school provides not only the highest quality of education but successfully provides a stable environment to children who might not otherwise have access to such stability.  The school has emphasized to me the importance of resourcefulness, optimism, understanding, respect, and appreciation.  I personally feel that often such notions are so easily forgotten back home.  I have had an unforgettable time here at V.S.N and can recommend to anyone from any professional background to come to Thimi and volunteer. 

Sophie Shugg
Tasmania, AUSTRALIA