New Year, new school

2014 was a great year for HOOP with some big achievements. So how can we make 2015 even better? Well, we’re going to start by building a brand new school!

With the generous support of engineering company, Chien Mau Inmobiliaria, work will soon be starting on a modern three-story building. As well as providing an even better learning environment for our students, the new school will create spaces for new adult programmes for the whole Flora Tristan community.

The new design

We caught up with one of HOOP’s founders, Li Shang-Ju, who has watched the school grow over the years and is now helping coordinate the new school’s construction: “When we started the school we had just one tiny classroom. We soon outgrew that and built the current school with four classrooms - but the organisation just got bigger and bigger so in 2013 we decided to try to build a new school, with more facilities for community and health programs as well as teaching.”

“It’s been amazing to see the project grow over the years and now I can’t believe Flora Tristan is going to get a modern three-story multiple-use school and community centre!”

When complete, HOOP students will be able to use seven new classrooms, a library and computer lab, a garden, a kitchen, an auditorium, an adult learning area and a roof terrace. The extra space will also give us the chance to expand our teaching and community programmes - so watch this space for updates on how HOOP is growing its services in 2015.

Micha and Eva packing away the old school

As amazing as the new school will be, there’s more to teaching than bricks and mortar. We also need equipment, which is why we’re asking for businesses to help out by donating items or funds to help. If you can provide any school equipment or furnishings, we’d love to hear from you.

And, of course, the absolute most important part of the school can’t be bought: Great volunteer teachers. That’s why we’re calling all enthusiastic, aspiring and energetic volunteers to come and teach as soon as the school is ready in the spring. If you (or anyone you know) is interested in teaching English here in the beautiful city of Arequipa, or supporting HOOP’s behind-the-scenes management, fundraising and communications, then get in touch (volunteer@hoopperu.com)!

Written by Tom Hornbrook
@InTomsHead