Teaching English at Thairath Witthaya 80 School

Reported by: Yang Xue Qin, BA2 student
As students of International Buddhist College (Sadao, Thailand), we participated in an academic service program titled "Teaching English in a Thai School". The program ran from August 13, 2025, to September 24, 2025, at Thairath Witthaya 80 School in Klong Ngae. Our primary objective was to enhance English language proficiency among middle school students while fulfilling our commitment to community service.

We taught two middle school classes, covering six main topics: Myself, My Family, Time, Emotions and Feelings, Fruits and Vegetables, and Buddhist Culture in Thailand. To make learning engaging and effective, we employed various interactive teaching methods including group activities, games, visual aids, and role-playing exercises. We encouraged students to participate actively in conversations and practise speaking English without fear of making mistakes. The integration of Buddhist cultural topics helped create a comfortable bridge between their familiar cultural context and English language learning.

The program yielded positive results as students showed increased confidence in speaking English and demonstrated improved vocabulary related to their daily lives. Many students who were initially shy gradually became more participative. This experience taught us valuable lessons about patience, cultural sensitivity, and adaptive teaching methods. We learned that connecting language learning with students' cultural background makes education more meaningful and effective.

We are grateful for this opportunity arranged by International Buddhist College to serve the community and contribute to educational development. This experience enriched our understanding of practical teaching and social responsibility. We hope such programs continue to bridge educational gaps in rural communities.