Thank you for your email regarding Nakom.
Like you we are concerned about Nakom and very keen to support him through with this settling in period at Tihoi. We do realise that Tihoi is a big step for some of our international students and they can struggle initially. Nakom has found it more challenging than others for a number of reasons. He is particularly shy and at the moment, despite numerous attempts by many of our students, both Thai and Kiwi he is very reluctant to speak to them. The other boys in his House at Tihoi have tried to engage him in conversation without much success. He is struggling with the cold weather. The Tihoi staff are extremely experienced and have been keeping a close eye on Nakom to make sure he is eating, understanding day to day activities and helping him through this initial period of homesickness. We realise that his English is not that strong but he does have to try.
I believe that Nakom has written to his mother and asked to go home, so I am sure that Mum will be feeling very worried. Being so far away is very difficult and I know that he and his mother are very close. Nakom will also be struggling with the fact that he has no contact via cell phone or internet.
Your offer of a telephone call is very kind and I am sure Nakom will be delighted to speak with you. I will leave it with you to arrange an appropriate time with Cyn.
At the moment we are proposing the following course of action:
· Close monitoring by Tihoi staff and regular communication with International Centre.
· Encouragement to participate in all activities.
· Encouragement for him to engage in conversations build friendships.
· Ensuring that he is wearing the appropriate clothing for the task at hand. He has taken plenty of warm clothes with him.
· A telephone call to yourself.
· Regular emails from home, offering support, understanding and encouragement in this programme he has undertaken. This is very important, today is the first day that he has received an email from his mother.
· On his first Leave Weekend Nakom and Tihoi friend One (also form Thailand) will live with their Guardian Trish Ure. During his first few weeks with us Nakom and Trish have established a growing relationship of trust and friendship which is very positive. Trish is also sending letters of support to him each week.
· At the end of the first month (4 weeks) staff will reassess his progression, and we will keep you advised of how he is coping.
Tihoi is quite a challenge for many of our students, however the best way to maximise the experience is to communicate, build friendships with the other boys and attempt the next physical challenges that are presented . Many of our students say it is the most amazing opportunity in their lives. Any support and encouragement you can give him would be really appreciated.
Thank you for your support. Please do not hesitate to contact Cyn or I if your or Nakom’s mother have any questions.