Schools in London verses U.S.

Something interesting I have learned while being in London is a difference between the schools here verses the schools in the United States.

In the United States the majority of schools are public rather than private and most public schools do not require students to wear a uniform. On the other hand, in London there are more private schools than there are public (or state) schools and all students rather they attend state or private are required to wear a school uniform.

I also learned that the school vacations (or holidays) are different in London. Most schools in the U.S. have a long summer break with a few shorter breaks during the school year. In London, however, children are on holiday from late July 'til early September (with 6 weeks off in the summer) and they have some longer breaks built into the school year.

I thought these were some intriguing differences to note!

A Five Frame Story of Erin (Without Words)

Summer Reading Programs at Barbican Library

Today we visited Barbican Library which is part of the City of London Libraries. Our class was given a tour of the whole library including the Children's Section. I thought it was interesting to learn that they provide a summer reading program or "challenge" to motivate the kids to read just as we do in the United States. Each summer children ages 4-11 are challenged to read 6 books before September and the theme is different each year. This summer's theme is called Space Hop.

Most schools and public libraries in the United States offer similar programs to keep children reading while on their summer holiday. This is so important so that kids can continue to improve their reading skills over the summer months.

To learn more about this program offered by the City of London Libraries go to: http://www.spacehop.org.uk/

A Short Digital Film on my Trip to Watford

This past Sunday, July 25, 2010, I had a wonderful opportunity to meet some family in Watford. It was an exciting day! As I reported in the very first entry of my blog, my mom found out just a couple years ago that she has some half brothers and sisters living in England. Since finding out the news my mom and her brother Kevin have been corresponding by email. I too have corresponded some by email and when I knew I would be studying in London this summer I arranged to meet Kevin and his family.

Kevin and his wife Doreen warmly welcomed my flatmate, Crystal, and I into their home this past Sunday. We had a wonderful time getting to know them and their son Kevin and his girlfriend Gail. Here is a short digital film of our visit.

Flowers in London and Bath

There are so many beautiful flowers found throughout London and Bath. As you stroll along the streets you can find flower boxes in windows and flower pots hanging from posts almost anywhere you go. It is so nice to see all the vivid colors and contrasts in colors. The parks are also filled with flower beds. I especially have enjoyed Regents Park in London and Parade Gardens in Bath.

Yesterday, Lynn, Crystal, and I visited Bath for the day and had a wonderful time. One of the first places in Bath that totally captured our attention was Parade Gardens. Standing from the street you look down into the park which is situated by a river. The beauty of the flower beds is captivating. This is a picture from Parade Gardens.


Here is a short digital story I created on my trip to Bath. Click on the picture to view.



Credits:

This video was created using Microsoft's Photo Story 3. All material is original except for the music which is provided by Photo Story 3.