FutureBuilding 2010
Latest Project Updates
Tuesday 14th December- New Celebration Event page added
We have now added a Celebration Event page to this site, as a memory for those who attended and as an insight for those who were unable to attend.
To view the page use the navigation links to the right, or alternatively click here.
To view the letter from Stephen O'Brien, DfID Minister, click here.
Friday 10th December- FutureBuilding 2010 Celebration Event
The Groups come together once again
This week marked the FutureBuilding 2010 Celebration Event. We had a very pleasing turn-out, particularly when considering the difficult weather conditions lately. The event marked a valuable opportunity to embrace and reflect on the huge impact this years FutureBuilders have had on the local community and Lotima Primary School.
This year was by far the most ambitious of the three years we have been working with Childreach International to deliver improvements to school communities in Tanzania. Here, we will share with you images from the event, documentaries shown, as well as some personal letters from Guicy and the DFID Minister, to congratulate all for their involvement.
We will update this website next week with a new 'Celebration Event' page for those who were unable to attend, and as a memory for those who were.
Monday 29th November- A final note of appreciation and thanks to all those involved in FutureBuilding 2010
With Group 4 now safely landed in UK and Canada, the 2010 FutureBuilding programme is officially complete. Lotima school has been reopened and it really is a very different place, bringing new opportunities to many children through improved educational facilities. However, this is just the start for Lotima as a school is only as good as its teachers and that is where Childreach's ongoing role is so important. As with all of the schools they work with, their task is to oversea the continued growth at Lotima to ensure the work of the last two months is used as a springboard from which to launch further improvements. There are also issues around access to clean water that we hope will be addressed soon as it is these very basic improvements that must not be forgotten. As we receive updates from Childreach we will post them right here.
We will also continue to oversee the development of the schools twinning element to this project, between Balliol and Lotima. As we approach the New Year we can look ahead to this special relationship evolving into a cross-cultural learning programme to improve awareness and understanding and generate international relations that we hope all children involved will foster for many years to come.
For Carillion Energy Services, the 2010 project has reached new levels and in partnership with EPT, Childreach our global Partners and stakeholders, we have embraced and impacted on international culture and educational opportunity, including for the first time the Schools Twinning Programme. This has opened the door to future projects that create shared value and we look forward to the next phase of our programme of international development..
A special thank you to Phil Asher for his unwavering commitment for over two months in Tanzania, ensuring the welfare and safety of all involved. Balliol School for their enthusiasm for the twinning programme, Carillion Energy Services for their commitment to and support of this programme and Carillion Energy Services Partnership Trust for their financial support. We must also thank all 58 of the FutureBuilders, from Canada, India and the UK, including our major stakeholders and the community and people of Lotima and Tanzania for their warm welcome.
Monday 29th November- Newspaper coverage of FutureBuilding 2010 in the UK
Our media team have been working hard to share updates with the public, regarding the progress and achievements of the programme. Use the links below to view articles covering the schools twinning scheme as well as the Business Charity Awards, which Carillion Energy Services successfully won for last years project.
Click here to read an article covering the schools twinning scheme
Click here to read an article covering the Business Charity Awards for FutureBuilding 2009
Friday 26th November– Final reflections from the last group of FutureBuilding 2010
The final group cross the border from Tanzania into Kenya and on to Nairobi for homeward bound flights. On this return leg of their journey, they scribble away in the breaks between mile after mile of bone-shaker track, squinting through the dust to put their final thoughts down, marking the end of their project.
Friday 26th November- Kaye's final blog
JAMBO!! :)
It's been an amazing journey! Of which I treasure every moment. I still can't believe I'm in Africa! Somebody please pinch me! Oh! right, I was awaken by the Bee sting...
Friday 26th November- Breaking news...Carillion Energy Services and Childreach are recognised by the Moshi District Commissioner and featured in the Tanzanian Daily News
The remarkable achievements and generosity of both our FutureBuilders and Childreach has been recognised and commemorated by the Moshi District Commissioner, as well as the local newspapers.
As the final group begin their journey home, looking back over the last two months, it is clear to see that FutureBuilding 2010 will leave an everlasting impression upon the communities of Tanzania.
Click here to read an article published in the Tanzanian Daily News, celebrating the work of Carillion Energy Services's volunteers.
Click here to read an article published in the Tanzanian Daily News, discussing the work of CRI and Carillion Energy Services in Tanzania.
Thursday 25th November- The group enjoy their safari experience...and a proper bed at last!
It was time for all of Group 4, Phil, Sam and Liz to pack up and say their good-byes to Lotima and the project site yesterday, for the final time.
The group headed to Lake Manyara National Park yesterday morning, to experience a safari trip- a perfect opportunity for some last minute photographs- and to begin their journey home. We bring you some images of the group and the wildlife, captured whilst on safari...
Walk-about
Wednesday 24th November- Lotima School inauguration ceremony
After 2 months and 60 FutureBuilders, renovating classrooms, cement mixing, oven building, toilet completion, mural painting, playground construction, football post installation, netball and volleyball court making and plenty of interaction with the children, Lotima Primary School was reopened yesterday by the District Commissioner.
Today marked a fantastic achievement and work will now continue with the school, with our Balliol-Lotima twinning programme supporting new learning opportunities in a school with toilets, a new kitchen, bright, safe classrooms, a playground and sports pitches.
Photos and video to follow soon, as today the group are on convoy to safari at Lake Manyara National Park- after 10 days, a proper bed!
Tuesday 23rd November- Group 2 members return to Balliol Primary School
Steve, Michael, Dan and Colin returned to Balliol Primary School this week, to share their experiences with the children.
The children were shown videos and images, taken during their time in Tanzania, which went down very well- especially the dancing and singing scenes and the animals on the safari.
Hands shot up at the opportunity to ask the group questions- covering a wide range of areas from insects to food to electricity!
This particular class of children are currently focusing upon a water project, considering access and quality variances throughout the world; the group were able to shed light upon the journeys made in Tanzania to get clean, safe water.
d light upon the journeys made in Tanzania to get clean, safe water.
A final get-together
Tuesday 23rd November- A reflection upon the last two months...
As the FutureBuilding 2010 programme approaches the end, it's fantastic to look back over the past two months to see all of the achievements and moments that each of the groups have shared. Take a look through each of the groups' pages to see their progress and experiences.
There are now new images uploaded from Group 1's time in Tanzania to see too!
Tuesday 23rd November- Video messages from Sam and Liz
Sam and Liz both reflect upon their initial thoughts when they arrived at the project site last weekend; both are extremely impressed with the results of each groups hard work, and are looking forward to the opening ceremony this afternoon.
Tuesday 23rd November- Video messages from Headteacher, Mr Msofe, and Elvis
Mr Msofe thanks each of the groups for all of their hard work
Elvis asks Trevor if he can become Phils official assistant!
Tuesday 23rd November- Video updates from Lotima Primary School
Check out the videos of the cooks and teachers putting the new school buildings to use, in preparation of the school opening this week!
Tuesday 23rd November- The latest blogs from Paul and Emily
Blog from Paul- A rather tired Jambo from me. Despite going to bed shortly after 8pm last night, I'm still one of the last up this morning and I'm yawning like an asthmatic hippo. It's our last day of work today and the last week and a bit has totally flown over. Lotima has left a lasting mark on me in a very positive way. I heartily recommend FutureBuilding to anyone who is considering applying the in the future.
Blog from Emily- Yesterday I got a not-so-wee blister on my thumb when Beth and I decided to coat the kids' toilet wall with a coat of paint in the boiling sun. We all were working overtime to get everything done as today is our last morning in camp and not a full work day, because of the closing celebrations.
Tuesday 23rd November- Group 4's final push to complete their work at Lotima Primary School
The group have now completed their final day of work in Tanzania, in time for the official opening ceremony of the school today; images and videos of this will be shared tomorrow, providing an insight into the celebrations occuring as the transformed Lotima school is opened to hundreds of children. Check out this update to see the group adding their final touches to the schools classrooms, toilets and kitchen.
Graham doing the housework whilst Sherry watches
Monday 22nd November- Snake Risk Management and Control
With the sighting of a Black Mamba snake over the weekend, Phil investigates the approaches taken by the locals to manage the risk of snakes and to cure any bites that occur...
Monday 22nd November- Image update of Group 4's work on the classrooms and playground
The boys try out the new swing
Monday 22nd November- Weekend blogs from Sam, Carl, Emily, Sarah and Sherry
With only two days left on the project site, the group are working hard to put their finishing touches to Lotima Primary School and ensure that they have completed as much as they possible can before their departure. We bring you blogs from the group members as they reflect upon their first week in Tanzania, as well as Sam's first blog since his arrival over the weekend.
Blog from Sam- My first day in Africa began with an incredible flight from Kenya to Tanzania that took a detour to circumnavigate Mount Kilimanjaro – a stunning sight and one that firmly placed me back in Tanzania. Thank you to all groups for your dedication to this and together making such a significant change to this beautiful place.
To my Saskia and my boys I send a big warm African hug xxx
Blog from Carl- Lots more hard work been done, we're almost finished! Only a few days left here, unfortunately! ANIMAL UPDATE: There was a Black Mamba IN MY TENT!
Blog from Emily- Now that we've been out here for a week we're getting used to being covered in sweat and dust, and while at first we were practically pushing each other out of the way to shower, now at the end of the work day we're sitting around, or playing volleyball while the shower remains empty, and nearly forgotten. Nearly.
Blog from Sarah- Hi Everyone. Yes I am alive and surviving life out here. Well not much longer until I see everyone, I'm missing you all. Nick, make sure you've checked the plane times and don't forget to pick me up! Nats and Landen I'm missing you. Mum – I'm having the time of my life. See you soon. Love you. Sarah “The Duchess”.
Blog from Sherry- Our resident Confucius type person, Phil Asher says “if things do not change they remain the same”. So true, as Group 4 has made so many changes to the Lotima School that things will never be the same again. Still missing my hubby and all in Wales, but showed my alliance to Wales by drawing a Welsh flag on the classroom wall; will try to send a photo in the next blog....
Friday 19th November - Black Mamba pays a visit
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The Black Mamba
The third snake sighting took place tonight - a 2ft Black Mamba - well spotted early by the tents and moved on swiftly by Phil! The rainy season brings plenty of bull frogs to the area - a staple diet for snakes - doing their bit to help keep the night tmie frog chorus down...
Friday 19th November- Weekend plans in Tanzania…
Group 4 have now reached the mid point of their time in Tanzania, and have achieved an incredible amount of work to date, with another week still to go! The group will enjoy a day away from the project site tomorrow, visiting the Arusha market to see what the local stores have to offer; the group will no doubt make a good start on their Christmas shopping!
In addition to this, Sam Robinson (CSR Manager) and Liz Fisher (EPT) will be departing tomorrow to begin their week in Tanzania. During their time here they will be reuniting with Group 4 and the team in Tanzania, assisting in the final important stages of the school and community development, as well as supporting the all important grand opening of Lotima Primary School next week.
Sam will also be engaging with the teaching staff, children, local fundi and families to understand the extent of the impact that FutureBuilding 2010 has had, and will continue to have, upon the educational opportunities for hundreds of local children. This new provision will bring a supportive learning environment that is safe and encourages learning and development. With a new kitchen providing a good meal daily and toilet blocks to encourage more girls to attend school, these changes will have a lasting impact for many years to come.
We will bring you updates and images on Monday morning from the group’s trip to Arusha and also of Sam and Liz's arrival on site.
Bon voyage Sam and Liz!
Friday 19th November- More images from today
Painting nearly finished in the classroom
Friday 19th November- Blog updates from Chris, Helen, and Elvis from Tanzania!
Chris- Having some good craic round the fire on an evening with a well earned beer, my face and stomach muscles are hurting because of all the laughter...Hope all is well back home, big love to wor lass and the family, we'll be on our way home this time next week!
Helen- My time here has been absolutely amazing. The first night was not the easiest adjustment to my new home for 10 days. Torrential rain led to a frequent exclamation of 'I hate camping' and a semi-permanent pet lip...Love to Mum, Dad, Cat and David, missing you all lots xxx
Elvis- I have fantastic (cocacolastic) moments with group 4 from Carillion Energy Services. They are all hard workers and charming...I like the wonderful evenings when we play volleyball on the newly installed court.
Friday 19th November- Image update of Group 4's work and gift ceremony within the local community
The group put their finishing touches to some of the decorations they have added to the classrooms at Lotima Primary School, and also enjoy an afternoon of distributing gifts and clothes to the children and local community.
George has a new role as a shoe-fitting specialist
Thursday 18th November- Update blogs from Graham, Paul and Emily
Blog from Graham
Well, here we are on Thursday; our fourth day on site and it's another scorcher...Sleeping is proving very difficult as the noises are in abundance and of a very varied variety; bullfrogs shouting “four”, dogs fighting, campers snoring, flatulence and last night was a Muslim festival and they had a rave in the next village with DJ Notverygood shouting over an incredibly powerful speaker system to repetitive tunes, fortunately he passed out at 3am as most of us did too!
Thursday 18th November- Image update as Group 4 make great progress with their work
As Group 4 head towards the mid point of their time in Tanzania, it's clear to see how hard they are all working with some fantastic achievements already. We bring you images from the project site and the local community.
Netball court coming on a treat
Wednesday 17th November- Paul and Emily share their thoughts from their day so far
Paul- Another red-hot day in Tanzania. To be honest, I am struggling a bit with the heat, but I'm slowly adjusting… I am immensely enjoying my time in Tanzania, even though the work is hard and I am missing my family.
Wednesday 17th November- Group 4 prepare and paint new classrooms
Wednesday 17th November- Last nights video diary from Sarah, Paul and Chris
Wednesday 17th November- Last nights bloggers Carl, Catherine, Emily and Sherry
As the group approach the mid-point of their first week in Tanzania, they share their experiences so far with us...
Tuesday 16th November- Image update after a fantastic days work is complete by group 4
Volleyball court complete
Tuesday 16th November - Edwina gets stung on her tongue by a bee...
Edwina, whilst having a well deserved break from digging out the volley ball field, sitting quietly drinking a cup of coffee an African bee armed with Maasi spear in its tail covertly infiltrated Edwina's coffee. Of all the places to get stung this was probably the worst most possible scenario; thankfully Edwina stayed calm and Team Canada get to play for another day!!!
Edwina cool, calm and collective after being stung
Tuesday 16th November - Group 4 work on building the new volleyball court
With improved weather conditions, the group take their work outside and start to build the schools new Volleyball court.
See more photos from this morning here
Tuesday 16th November- Edwina and Emily Video Diary
Monday 15th November - video - Group 4 work commences
Monday 15th November - out comes the sunshine and dries up all the rain...
As the sun came up this morning the site dried out enough for work to start. The first task, decorating the newly built classrooms and refurbishing the existing furniture. Spirits are high despite the very damp start and the team look forward in anticipation to the next few days of work as the transformation of Lotima Primary School continues.
See more photos from this morning here
Monday 15th November - first night in Lotima
Last night's blogger: Emily
It's an unidentifiable time in Africa. The noises of the night consist of endless frogs that sound as if they've been startled and are shouting at each other to “hurry up!” and “Get out of the way!” like some traffic jam full of drivers with road rage....
Sunday 14th November - and finally the heavens have opened...
It's to be expected, as this is after all the start of the rainy season in Tanzania. Group 4 have arrived safely at Lotima albeit to torrential downpour, with a lightening and thunder show thrown in for good measure!
Sunday 14th November - UK Partners have arrived
The remainder of Group 4 travelling from the UK have arrived in Kenya and join our Canadian Partners to meet as a group for the first time. With a 10 hour overland journey ahead of them, there is plenty of opportunity to get to know each other and discuss the work they will be undertaking in Lotima.
One of the main tasks for this group is to complete a new toilet block within the school grounds. This is a crucial element to the programme as by providing working toilets, the school opens itself up to many more children, especially girls. Families tend not to send their children to school if there aren't toilets - especially not girls - so this task opens the doors to those that might not otherwise benefit from education and the opportunities to be gained from going to school.
We wish Group 4 a safe journey on to the project site. As soon as we have updates and the first images/video, they will be posted here.
Saturday 13th November - Canadian Partners touch down
Edwina and Emily, our two Carillion Energy Services Partners from Canada, have safely arrived in Kenya and have been met by Phil at Nairobi Airport. Luckily for them they have an overnight rest after their long first leg of the journey, before joining the UK Partners in the morning and together heading into Tanzania and on to Lotima.
Keep an eye on this home page and the Group 4 page to stay up to date with their journey and see the first images and video of the welcome party in Lotima. As the last group this is the final phase of our 2010 FutureBuilding project - we look forward to seeing it unravel and discovering more over the next two weeks of how this project has impacted the community and what plans Childreach have to ensure the legacy is sustainable and the people of Lotima will benefit from these changes for many years to come.
Thursday 11th November - A Farewell Blog
Thursday 11th November - Safari
To mark the end of their project in Tanzania, Group 3 spent some time in Manyara Lake and the Ngorongoro crater and nature reserve....
Read more and see all the images here
Wednesday 10th November - Lotima community feedback
Before the group left they spoke with Sadiki, a member of the local community. Click on the video below to view it and see the transcript.
Wednesday 10th November - a final video diary from the last night...
Wednesday 10th November - updates from the final project day
We bring you some images from Group 3's last day at Lotima, during whcih they were given a warm farewell party, spent some special time with the children, gave and received speeches and sang a few last songs. Finally the group planted a tree in the school grounds to mark the occasion and bring new life to the school that they have helped to create.
The Lotima community say goodbye to the outgoing Carillion Energy Services Partners
See more images from yesterday's last project day here
Wednesday 10th November - Lake Manyara
Group 3 complete their phase of the 2010 FutureBuilding programme
After an emotional farewell yesterday and a chance to say goodbye to Lotima - and home for the last 10 days - Group 3 set off at the crack of dawn this morning towards Lake Manyara. The group have an opportunity to take in some of the stunning Tanzanian scenery and incredible wildlife, whilst also looking back on their work during their time on the project and reflecting on their achievements and the legacy they have helped to create.
As we wait for image updates from yesterday (these may not go up until tomorrow due to the group being on the road), we will also go into the community over the next few days and Childreach staff will ask the people of Lotima what this project means to them, the children and the longer term benefits for the community.
We thank Group 3 for their hard work and solid determination - they have made a massive impact within Lotima and we look forward to hearing about the final leg of their journey. Wishing them all a safe return.
Tuesday 9th November - last night's video diary
Leanne and Jacqui
Tuesday 9th November - last night's blog and images
Many hands make drumming work...
Yesterday's blogger: Billy
The team are now working even harder to make sure that we complete as much work as possible, gaining pace as our time draws closer to an end...
Read the full blog and see more images here
Monday 8th November - 'farewell to the rising sun'
To mark nearing the end of their project in Lotima, a song was written, strummed and sung by the entire group. Click on the image to watch the video and sing along with the lyrics!
Monday 8th November - updated images from this morning
We have uncovered some highly creative talent in Group 3 - look at this collection of their latest work, turning the new classrooms into bright and fun learning environments for the children of Lotima.
Guisy gets stuck in with her paintbrush!
Monday 8th November - last night's video diary
Monday 8th November - updated images and blog
Yesterday's blogger: Sally Harrison
Jambo. Mambo!! (Hello, how are you?)
Back to work today after our trip to Arusha. Except, it wasn't easy to get up this morning after a night composing songs by the camp fire. The kids weren't here today, so we knuckled down to get plenty of work done.
Read the full blog and see more images here
Monday 8th November - weekend blog by Jacqui
Today was Saturday and our day off, so after a quick breakfast we all set off towards Arusha armed with cash and anticipation. We were off to visit a Masai market, and I think we all hoped to buy the majority of our gifts to take home....
Monday 8th November - images from the weekend
Window on the world
See more images from the weekend here
Monday 8th November - weekend video diaries
Sally, Viv and Leanne share their thoughts
Monday 8th November - Balliol learn songs for Lotima
Sunday 7th November - video updates from Julie & Nick and Dave
Sunday 7th November - visiting Arusha
Our hard working Partners downed tools for the day yesterday and took a trip to the local market town of Arusha.
Arusha day trippers
See all the photos from yesterday here
Sunday 7th November - Julie's Birthday Blog
Happy Birthday for yesterday Julie!
Julie is given handmade birthday cards from the local children
Saturday 6th November - Project groups 1, 3 and 4 all visit Balliol Primary School
Yesterday was a busy day at Balliol Primary School, North Tyneside. Three of the four FutureBuilding project groups visited the school to talk with the children, share their experiences, work with the children on playground design for Lotima and host a live voice call from the project site. It was a really successful morning with a buzzing atmosphere.
Read the full account and see pictures here
Saturday 6th November - Wonderwall | dirty dusty smoky remix!
Yesterday's blog and images to follow later today - we are experiencing some network issues in Tanzania delaying these posts.
Group 3 take a well earned rest today and travel to the local market town of Arusha to experience a very different environment to Lotima. Updates and images from their travels and some reflection on their experiences at the mid way project point to follow tomorrow.
Friday 5th November - Hello mum!
Jenny takes a well earned break - hello mum!
Friday 5th November - video updates from yesterday
Thursday 4th November - latest photo updates and blog from Rox and Viv
Tonight’s bloggers: Roxane and Viv
We all had a long day painting and Sara, Jo and Dawn sorted the kids stuff in the baking hot tent at midday whilst Nic, Davey and Stu fitted a sink in the kitchen and put the hinges on the cupboards ready for the hinges for the oven doors tomorrow.
We cannot wait to give the children their gifts tomorrow and see there faces light up, it makes it all so worth while...
After a hard day's work, play
See more photos and read the full blog here
Thursday 4th November - latest video updates
Thursday 4th November - brush strokes and community visit
Children carrying family water supply
Yesterday’s blog: Davey Murray
I pulled a groin muscle after getting up off the seat to begin shoving tons of sand and cement for the porch. We gave the classrooms a second coat of emulsion and painted the edges of the ceiling...Later on we went to visit the community in the local village and it was very humbling for us all...
Read full update and see photos here
Wednesday 3rd November - latest images and update from Lotima
Group 3 take a short break from today's task
Lunchtime bloggers: Dawn, Sara & Leanne
Jambo Rafiki,
Spent today carrying on decorating a classroom with map signs, shapes, scales and freestyle drawing of a meadow scene, courtesy of Leanne. Put our personal mark on Lotima for the future with our handprints on the wall and “as you do”, we decided to put our handprints on each other as we are now “close” friends!
Lunch served: tomato soup, chicken, veg and chips followed by mango. We are all really looking forward to visiting the local community later today...
Wednesday 3rd November – last night’s video diary - Jo & Dawn
Wednesday 3rd November - the universal language of song
Today's bloggers: David, Roxane (little gorilla!) and Jacqui
Group 3 and children of Lotima trade songs
After a hard morning mixing cement and painting the classrooms we had a break and had the opportunity to interact with the kids. It started with a handful of kids and the group grew bigger and bigger. In the end there was about 60 kids dancing and singing with us. We were teaching them 'big fish, wee fish, cardboard box!' and they have taken a real shine to the 'hokey cokey'. They have their own versions to songs that the kids at home sing including 'twinkle twinkle little star'.
Read full update and see more photos here
* * Happy Birthday Phil! * *
Well, he managed to keep that very quiet, but word has it (thanks for letting the cat out of the bag Group 3) that Carillion Energy Services Adventurer Extraordinaire - Phil Asher - celebrated his birthday yesterday, complete with a cake at the project site. So, from all at Carillion Energy Services and Childreach, a very Happy Birthday for yesterday Phil and thank you for your 24 hour support of the project and for assisting all the Partners and stakeholders that you have worked with thus far.
Phil catches himself a birthday breakfast treat
Tuesday 2nd November - latest images
Group 3 get properly stuck into some of the remaining unusable classrooms, creating brighter, safer learning environments. They are lucky enough to find some new friends whilst they are at it!
Group 3, Project day 2 (minus Sally!)
Click here to see more pictures
Tuesday 2nd November – video diary from last night
Monday 1st November - first video diary coming soon...
A still from the evening video diary (to be uploaded Tues 2nd Nov)
Monday 1st November – another warm welcome at Lotima
Today's Bloggers: Jenny and Leanne
After a long and bumpy journey we finally arrived at Midland Lodge in Moshi, which seemed like luxury after 30 hours of travelling. After a briefing session we had a well deserved Kili and an early night. After a rude awakening from the hotel’s cockerel we got ready to set off to the school and start our challenge.
Read full update and see photos and video here
Monday 1st November
Due to a temporary lack of remote broadband facility, we have been unable to update the site with the latest blog and more images today. This will be remedied tomorrow when you will be able to share the experiences and see the latest progress on Lotima.
A quick message to Roxane's mum - she's up there now - on the Group 3 page, sorry to have left Roxane's name off as the latest addition to Group 3!
Running for the bus - don't want to miss that one!
Monday 1st November - Group 3 blog from yesterday
Day 1 in Tanzania...
On the road from Nairobi
We all left destinations in high spirits having left UK/India on Saturday morning, arriving here after 27 hours and we still have 20 kilometres to go to the school tomorrow.
Each member has a big smile on their face after an evening briefing of the tasks tomorrow and the group are more keen than ever to get stuck in! Viv celebrated her 21st birthday plus VAT - Happy Birthday Viv!
Read full update and see more photos here
Monday 1st November - camp is rebuilt following elections
Following yesterday's local elections, the campsite has been built once more and the community of Lotima are preparing to welcome Group 3. Phil and Guisy met on site earlier this morning to check everything was in place. Later on today the first blogs, images and videos will be posted here - so you can keep up to date with progress of Group 3 as they get cracking with their poject tasks.
Sunday 31st October - Group 3 have landed
After their journeys from London and India to Nairobi, the group met to travel across the Namanga border and into Tanzania.
Due to local elections and Lotima School being used as a polling station, our third project group are staying a night at Moshi before reaching the project site and receiving their welcome party tomorrow morning.
Watch this space for updates, blogs, images and video. We wish them all well in the third and penultimate building phase.
Wednesday 27th October - Group 3 departure countdown!
Preparations are ongoing and the countdown really beings as Group 3 are just a few days away from heading out to Tanzania for phase 3 of the FutureBuilding programme.
Follow their thoughts, work progress and experiences here with images, blogs and vlogs!
Wednesday 27th October - welcome home Group 2
All in Group 2 have now arrived safely home to their friends and families after a hugely successful project and the completion of phase 2 of the Carillion Energy Services 2010 FutureBuilding project. With several more classrooms beautifully and colourfully decorated and a brand new functioning kitchen, the school takes another important step closer to opening its doors to many more children and providing a safe, bright and clean learning environment.
A massive THANK YOU to all in Group 2 for their sheer hard work and commitment to their work and the local community, and special thanks to our Stakeholders and Suppliers for taking part in this project with Carillion Energy Services and being able to share in the multitude of benefits that it brings.
Phil Asher also returns home for a few days to recharge (both himself and all his kit!) before heading back out at the weekend with Group 3. Again our thanks go to Phil for his unrelenting hard work and constant watch in Lotima to ensure every group has a unique and memorable experience, whilst remaining safe and keeping well.
Sunday 24th October - Group 2 members summarise their FutureBuilding experience
Gillian, Marion, Michael and Steve all share their thoughts on the FutureBuilding experience ,with a video diary on their final day in Tanzania.
Saturday 23rd October - Photo Update from Group 2's Safari Trip
Group 2 prior to the descent into Ngorengoro Crater
Click here to see more pictures
Friday 22nd October - Group 2's final day on site
Group 2 are now on their way home, after experiencing a Safari trip over the weekend. Below we share some photos with you from their last day on site, with moments captured from the leaving party, which the community held for them, as well as the end results of their hard work over the past 10 days.
Group 2 and the local fundi celebrate their achievements together
Click here to see more pictures
Friday 22nd October - The 4 Amigos video update
Friday 22nd October - Giving gifts to the children video update
Friday 22nd October - Rope Swing video update
Friday 22nd October - Group 2 blogs from Steve Lister, Michael Hewitt and Marion Venman
Some of the group members share their thoughts on their final day at Lotima Primary School
Click here to read their blogs
Thursday 21st October - Group 2 distribute their gifts to the children of Lotima Primary School
As group 2 near the end of their time in Tanzania they distribute all of the wonderful gifts, which were kindly donated during the lead up their departure from the UK.
The children are very appreciative of everything that the group have done for them and seem delighted with their gifts, as you will be able to see from the images included in this update.
The children of Lotima Primary School show their appreciation and excitement
Click here to see more pictures
Thursday 21st October - Photo Update on the work completed by Group 2
Proud FutureBuilders
Click here to see more pictures
Thursday 21st October - Group 2 blogs from Daniel Osman, Gillian Noble, Michael Farrell, Michael Hewitt, Paul Reid, Steve Betts and Steve Lister
As the group spend their last few days on site they update us on what they have been up to and their thoughts about this experience
Click here to read their blogs
Thursday 21st October - Video Update Michael and Colin
Thursday 21st October - Phil and his new friend
Phil has a new friend
Wednesday 20th October - Photo Update
New fundi's paint desks
Click here to see more pictures
Wednesday 20th October - Update from Paul Reid
On the first day we woke up in Lotima Bush Camp we were greeted by a crystal clear view of Kilimanjaro; we must have struck lucky that day because it has been shrouded in mist ever since.
Yesterday we had the opportunity to wander out of camp to visit the local community, just a short walk from the school. It was a great opportunity to see how people at Lotima live.
Wednesday 20th October - Update from Michael McMahon
Another day of sweltering heat, the oven bulding was completed today as well as 2 classrooms so all are pleased with the progress being made...For those who may be visiting soon be prepared to experience how simple life can be, it is a very humbling experience but very worthwhile.
Wednesday 20th October - Colin gets bitten by a Tsetse Fly
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Tuesday 19th October -
Video Diary Updates from Michael Farrell, Steve Lister, Gillian Noble and Steve Betts
Tuesday 19th October - Group 2 blogs from Daniel, Marion, Michael Hewitt, Paul and Steve
As the group continue their work at Lotima Primary School they share personal reflections of their experience to date.
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Tuesday 19th October - Video Update Sawing Metal for the Kitchen
Tuesday 19th October - Video Update Painting the Kitchen
Tuesday 19th October - Group 2 Photo Update
New school teachers- Gillian and Daniel
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Tuesday 19th October - Group 1's classroom 'Before and After'
The classroom was in poor condition prior to Group 1's arrival. Now we can see an absolute transformation, thanks to the kind efforts of Group 1 members, with the children already benefiting from the use of it
Monday 18th October - Video - DMD in the bathing house
Monday 18th October - Group 2 Photo Update
Group 2 members and their artwork in the classroom
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Sunday 17th October - Video - Group 2 first night
Sunday 17th October - Group 2 blogs from Michael, Colin, Gillian, Paul, Steve and Ron
As the group undertake their first day of work at Lotima Primary School they share personal reflections of their experience to date.
Click here to read their blogs
Sunday 17th October - Photo update of Group 2 starting their task
The group enjoy their first bush breakfast together
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Sunday 17th October - Photo Update
Group 2 arrive on site – note dilapidated kitchen in background – their first rebuild task
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Sunday 17th October – Group 2 are wished every success
The journey really begins for Group 2 as they arrive on site to a fantastically warm welcome from the local community and Lotima School. The site tour brings home the sheer volume of work that needs doing as they view the badly dilapidated kitchen in its current state – their first task is so important to the success of this school.
Sunday 17th October - Group 2 are welcomed by the Lotima community
Following their first night at Keys Hotel in nearby regional capital town - Moshi, our intrepid Group 2 got themselves sorted for sim cards and a few other bits of kit before transfer to the Childreach Tanzania office to meet the support team. After a full briefing outlining progress to date and an update from the site including health and safety talk and do' and don't's, everyone made their way onwards to Lotima community and the Primary School they will soon be very involved with.
Saturday 16th October - Group 2 Update
Our FutureBuilding project moves into the next phase as Group 2 are welcomed at Kilimanjaro airport by Phil and the Tanzania team tonight. Spirits are high and the UK team wait in anticipation for images, video and blogs starting from Monday...
Friday 15th October - Group 1 project after-thoughts
With Group 1 now on their way home from Tanzania they share their final thoughts, with personal reflections of the FutureBuilding experience.
Friday 15th October - Breaking news...
Our Marketeer and Future Leader Ellie Patience somehow managed to get herself interviewed for local TV at the Namanga (Kenya) border crossing. We are busy scanning cyberspace to see if we can locate this footage!
Friday 15th October - Group 1 preparing to return
Group 1 are on the return leg after a very busy and very successful FutureBuilding project over the last two weeks…As this is written its 11am on Friday 15th and they will be making their way slowly back to Nairobi, via the border into Kenya and a long dusty haul.
Friday 15th October - Lotima school 'over the moon' with Group 1 achievements
We have had some fantastic feedback from the school; they are delighted with all of the hard work and commitment Group 1 kick-started the project with. Following 10 days of hard toil in sweltering conditions, the school now have 5 classrooms completely refurbished from unusable, dangerous, dark into bright, clean, safe learning environments.
Friday 15th October - Update from Group 3: Balliol School visit
Group 3 have been busy preparing for their school visit today, where they will be exploring music with the younger years at Balliol Primary School.
Thursday 14th October- Message for Group 2 from Dave Routledge (Organisational Development Director, Carillion Energy Services)
You are about to enjoy the experience of a lifetime in Tanzania and on behalf of Carillion Energy Services I wanted to wish you a safe and successful trip…Enjoy the trip, have a laugh and I trust you will return ready to reflect on your experiences and how they can translate into making our businesses even better.
Thursday 14th September: Pre-Trip Thoughts Group 3 - Viv Webster
Now it feels real. I don’t normally get this excited this early...I honestly think I will be dreaming about this the night before we go and I am not sure I will sleep a wink with pure excitement!
Wednesday 13th October - Update from Group 2: Family life
Today group 2 returned to Balliol to collect some work the children had been preparing to support this theme and enable the children in Lotima to understand a little bit more about family life in the UK and specifically north Tyneside.
Wednesday 13th September: Pre-Trip Thoughts Group 3 - Sara Armstrong
I am excited & nervous! I am really looking forward to the trip as I have never done anything like this before. I’m not sure how I am going to cope with the camping but think we will all be working so hard we will sleep anywhere! This is definitely a once in a lifetime opportunity and I am over the moon to have been given the chance to take part. I have met up a few times with some of my group and am looking forward to working together.
Tuesday 12th October - Photo Update
Team work pays off – A group shot outside the school with the local dignitaries
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Tuesday 12th October – Update from Lee
Today is our last day in camp, we have taken time to complete the last of the work on five classrooms we have been refurbishing. Everyone has worked so hard and we are very proud of what we have achieved to date.
Tuesday 12th October - Balliol Primary School Fundraising
Balliol School dressed up as book characters and raised a further £50 towards their playground fund
Monday 11th October - Photo Update
Colin and Trevor participating in some playground banter with the school children
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Monday 11th October – Update from Louise and Zoe
The day started extremely early at 5.30am so I could visit Peter and Paul with Colin to film a “Day in the Life” of a child at Lotima Primary School.
Sunday 10th October – Photo - Amazing classroom progress
Sunday 10th October – A day of rest?!
By Sarah Prutton
I was once again first up before 6am after a very good nights sleep. Sarah Loughlin is our designated leader today.
I was on boarder patrol painting a blue boarder around the bottom of the walls of the classrooms. Creativity got the best of me and I put together a not so comfy seat consisting of a paint pot and some cardboard. Concentrating on the job and keeping a steady hand on the wall to lean on I later realised that I had left blue finger prints on the white wall above the boarder!
Saturday 9th October Massai Market – Day trip to Arusha
By Steven Robinson and Nigel Watson - Following a gruelling week at Lotima Primary School working as a FutureBuilder we were rewarded with a well deserved day off.
Friday 8th October – Video - Julie Wilson speaks to the school children
Friday 8th October – Video - Children at Lotima
Friday 8th October – Picture - Skype Chat with Balliol School
Partners use Skype to speak with Balliol School in North Tyneside
Friday 8th October – Week 1 draws to an end… (Update from Julie Wilson)
Well we're coming up to the end of the first week and we're planning to end it with a bang.
I was designated to be Team Leader for the day and I knew it would be hectic, as it was the day to give the children of Lotima Primary School the educational gifts we had brought over from home.
Thursday 7th October - Video - Baloon play
Thursday 7th October - Picture - Phil Asher tree climbing!
Phil Asher harnesses up to capture some tree top footage of the site
Thursday 7th October - Update from Sarah and Helen
Thursday the 7th October 2010 and me and Sarah Prutton are the first to rise on what is an amazing morning in Tanzania! We watch the sun rise at 6am and patiently sit by the fire and wait for the others to awaken from their tents.
Thursday 7th October – Schools twinned by live video link
The first live video link between Lotima School, Tanzania and Balliol School, UK was a great success, despite communications networks in Tanzania being unreliable.
6th October - Photo Updates (Group 1)
5th October - Video Updates (Group 1)
5th October – All mixed up
After an even better second night sleep as the group started to settle in to life on the project site at Lotima, they rolled up their sleeves and again got stuck right in to classroom refurbishment. This included mixing loads of concrete to repair damaged floors in the classrooms being refurbished.
Tuesday 5th October - Update from Ben Walsh
Woken up by Phil Asher at an ungodly hour to do a video diary. Mumbled a few words but perhaps we should do a video diary later on in the day when we are a little more awake. Went for breakfast at 07:30. porridge and Spanish omelets. Just the ticket as we has a big day of concrete mixing ahead.
Monday 4th October - Update from Helen Hewitt
06:30am, group wake up call with warm water outside my tent... Day 1 and crikey here I go.
Feeling anxious, nervous and excited, I've so many questions in my head; what are we going to do, how are we going to do it, how hot is it going be, how will the school children react to us, what's for breakfast, what shall I wear that will be practical to do a days graft in this heat? Crawled out of my tent and made a nice cup of Tanzanian coffee, lovely. Breakfast was good, porridge, toast, eggs, sausage (better than breakfast at home during a working week) and a splendid view of the African bush, with Kilimanjaro in the background in a mist of clouds!
4th October - 1st day of work for Group 1
So today is the first day’s work for Group 1 – Carillion Energy Services Future Leaders – who have the privilege of kick-starting the Carillion Energy Services 2010 FutureBuilding programme. The feeling in the camp is one of high spirits and a real desire to get the task underway. The Group have yet to really settle into their new temporary community, but plenty of time for that and for their learning to also take shape.
3rd October: Video - Group 1 arrives
3rd October: Group 1 arrives
After two days of travelling by trains, planes and automobiles, the Carillion Energy Services Future Leaders (Group 1) finally arrived at the project site in Lotima to a hugely moving and warm welcome from the local community. They got there just before sundown and with just enough daylight remaining for dancing, singing and speeches from the local community. Our local Childreach project worker - Guicy - interpreted for everyone and we were totally blown away with how the children sang and danced to welcome us to their school and homeland!
3rd October: It has started!
We are delighted to announce that the Carillion Energy Services 2010 FutureBuilding project has officially commenced, with our first Group having arrived on site on Sunday 3rd October. Following an exciting 8 hour overland journey across the Tanzania border from Nairobi, the first of the FutureBuilders were greeted by the entire community amidst jubilant song and dance that continued well after sundown.
Please check the links to the right to keep up to date with progress of each of the groups’ activities and experiences, including footage of the school rebuilding progress, and evening thoughts from the group as they take time to reflect and discuss progress.
We wish all those taking part the very best for this ambitious project of international development. We also hope that through this regularly updated site, colleagues, friends and family can enjoy witnessing how things evolve over the next two months as Lotima Primary School really starts to take shape.
Special thanks also go to Phil Asher (Carillion Energy Services) and Richard Snook (Childreach International) as they have been working especially hard in Tanzania for the last 10 days ensuring that everything is set up and ready to go. This includes clearing tents of very unwanted guests – check out Group 1 to find out more!
2nd October - Journey picture - A long way to go...
1st October - Pre-Trip Thoughts: Edwina Bedford (Group 4)
Can’t express enough of how excited, privilege and proud this opportunity makes me feel!! I could shout to the world but I live in an apartment and I don’t want my neighbours to call the cops on me. LOL!
17th September: Video - Lotima School
16th September: Pre-Trip Thoughts - Julie Wilson
I will be leaving with group 1 and I am really looking forward to the whole experience.
Most of my thoughts about this project is very positive and I just can’t wait to get out there, however I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t a little anxious (more so of the unknown!!) I haven’t camped since I was a child and I am used to my comfortable bed so this will be something new. I want to go out there with a complete open mind and basically just take things as they come. The group that I am going out with have worked as a group over the last year and we have become quite close which I think will be a massive benefit to us.
I have nothing more to say at the moment as I guess the nearer the time of my trip, my thoughts will change.
14th September: Pre-Trip Thoughts - Jo Dent
My thoughts (although of late I have not had time to really think about things) at the moment are that I cannot wait to meet all the children and their families who we are going to help. I don’t have any fears or issues at the moment although maybe I will have a few more thoughts after the brief tomorrow.
August 23rd: Renovation Has Started!
August 17th: Kitchen - Before Renovation
August 16th: Classroom - Before Renovation
