We LOVE hearing from happy parents!

After years of working with young students we are used to dealing with concerned parents who understandably worry about their children being away in strange foreign lands. So it always brings a smile to our faces when we get emails like the one below from a very happy pair of parents!

Thank you for your emails to keep us up to date with the activities in Ghana. This is a small reflection of the excellent way in which Antipodeans and you particularly have organised the placement. As parents it has been a great support to know that there is a safety net of competent people to support our kids if anything goes wrong. And the fact that all has gone so smoothly is evidence of your professionalism and care. Sarah speaks very highly of Tina and Seth and the advice they’ve given the students. She has been so thankful for Seth’s help in getting the toilet block completed before she leaves. For her friends and family who funded the project, it is wonderful to see the project completed.

Sarah has had a marvellous time in every respect, fulfilling a dream she’s had since she was 5 years old, to go to Africa. I wouldn’t be at all surprised if she goes back when she has university training and more skills but this experience has been a great balance of adventure, exposure to a different culture and way of life, with both frustrations and joys and wonderful new relationships (Sarah and Ellen will be long-term friends and are planning regular ways in which to see each other while at Uni). Sarah has loved her host family and Grace has obviously helped Sarah and Ellen to understand and appreciate Ghanaian culture.

Thank you to the team at Antipodeans for offering these experiences to young people who want to do more than backpack around Europe and to parents who are thankful for the extra support that you offer. We have recommended you to many of our friends who’ve asked about Sarah’s adventure.

We are counting down the days till Sarah comes home when I’m sure we’ll be inundated with all she wants to tell us. Then we’ll have to adjust to family life with a changed Sarah!