GEORGE BROWN CITY COLLEGE, TORONTO, CANADA,
COMES TO ULIMASAO MARIST CENTRE

From July 4 to July 30,2007,  three young ladies from the George Brown College in Toronto Canada , joined us here at Marist Centre for a ”practicum” – a teaching experience. They were charged with teaching life skills to our students. What follows is their own reflections on their time with us.

Nicole Cheung                   Lisa Thibodeau                    

During the four weeks that I have been at the Marist Centre , I have continued to be impressed by the students and the staff, as well as by the importance of this school and of second chance education. The Marist Centre provides an opportunity for students, who have for various reasons been unable to complete their education within the traditional school system, to continue learning and growing in an encouraging and safe environment. With the support of the dedicated faculty and staff, students are given the opportunity to continue their education in academics such as math, and English, learn about their culture in Samoan, explore their talents and creativity, and learn practical skills in options such as art, music, agriculture, welding, auto mechanics and sewing.

The students that I have had the honour and pleasure of teaching have proven to be bright, talented, creative, enthusiastic, energetic, respectful and most welcoming. It is my hope that this school will be able to continue doing this important work; of supporting the community’s vulnerable youth in fulfilling their potential, in helping them realize that they are bright, capable and valuable, and providing them with something everyone should have access to – an education.

I would like to thank the Brothers and the staff for their support during my stay here at the Marist Centre . It has been an invaluable learning experience, one that I will never forget!

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 I had such an amazing experience teaching at the Marist Centre in Vailoa, Savaii . I had the opportunity to see many places while in Samoa and I truly can't imagine a better place to stay, learn and work in Samoa .  I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to work in such a valuable environment and to work with each and every student I have.  The students here are amongst the most passionate and enthusiastic students I have ever worked with.  They seem to take great pride in participating in this learning community; both eager to learn and to teach.  I believe this enthusiasm is a result of having a second chance to demonstrate how talented they really are.  The Marist Centre proves the best learning environment is one that is both supportive and encouraging.  I wish the brothers, staff, and students of the Marist Centre great success in future    back to top

We at Marist Centre in turn extend our grateful thanks to our dear friends from Canada. Your time with us has been a wonderful experience. The students learned so much from you, and as you evidenced your love for them, so too they responded with much affection for you. God bless each of you in your future studies and endeavours. 

Do come and visit us again!

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