Back to School

Saturday, August 29

Today all children in Ukraine return to school. The previous week preparation have been made for this Event, new uniforms, pencils pens and paper bought, books covered, school bags unearthed, as well as my grandson disappearing a bit of a mystery Hmmm!

It’s 8 am we are walking to the school many others are doing the same, the children all smartly dressed clean shirts, ties neatly tied, shoes shining, each carrying flowers for their teachers, most seem eager to arrive.
In the grounds parents and children are chatting reacquainting themselves,” waiting for what I ask you’ll see they said”.
Soon we move to the playground here a huge ballon Arch has been erected under which some tables are set, a man twiddles knobs and faders as he tries to coax the sound system into life a few screeches from the speakers, then to the sound of Sousa Liberty Bell March it all kicks off.
Each class parade into the area led by its teacher to line up around the perimeter, the the centre is left for performances by various groups and individuals. it’s a real colourful sight balloons flowers dresses and pom poms the youngsters perform with aplomb brimming with confidence. Now I discover the mysterious disappearance of my grandson, He has almost the final part of the morning, walking over to a little girl he lifts her onto his shoulder, she is carrying the school bell which she rings to signify the commencement of the new term as he parades her around the assembly. Now the balloons are released one for each child, as they disappear the senior class move forward to escort the new arrivals to their classes.
Thats it it’s a beautiful day as we walk home the anticipation of a nearly traditional english breakfast helps to keep the smile on my face.