Suggested Do's and Don'ts

Do's

Do be clear about your aims and whether a link is the best way to achieve them. For example, if you want to study a brief unit (life in a hot country, economic development etc.) a link may not be appropriate. A link is hopefully a long-term undertaking.
Do expect communication to take time. It is not unusual to hear nothing for months and for packages to go missing. Remember that none of the Oyugis schools have regular email access and they have to collect post from the nearest town.
Do see how the link can support the curriculum in your school.
Do involve as many pupils, staff, and governors as possible. There is strength in numbers and it is safer than relying on one individual who may leave.
Do look to your local community for support and participation.
Do listen to the people in your partner school to find out what they want and expect.
Do contact other schools with experience – most will happily help.
Do expect requests for assistance from your partner school and remember it’s your decision as to what you want to do.
Do use Amani UK's locally-based Schools Liaison Worker to keep the communication process open and onoing.

Don'ts

Don't think only of your needs.
Don't be impatient!
Don't expect your partner’s needs to be similar to yours.
Don't set yourself up as experts in what they need or don't need. Just ask them.
Don't be offended at requests for help, nor feel the link has failed if you are unable to. Friendships take many forms and will each have their own characteristics.
Don't give up. Keep trying. Linking can and should be a remarkably rewarding experience.