STUDENTS in Gambia have been given a glimpse into British education courtesy of Hampshire teachers.

Andover and Sparsholt College teachers Mandy Woodray and Rachel Unwin have just returned from 10 days at the Mansa Colley Bojang School in Jalanbang Village where they shared their expertise in the classroom while learning about Gambia life.

Ms Woodray, an early years lecturer, said: “The teachers are incredibly stern and the classroom itself is very regimented with the students effectively talked at all day, learning by rote – no notes are taken. Our suggestions were very simple; we encouraged the teachers to smile so their students knew they were happy to be there which aids their learning.

"They then noticed that this encourages and gives students the confidence to contribute and share ideas making learning a two way process.

“We also suggested that students move around into different groups, enabling them to discuss, debate and embed the learning.”