On Monday 19th September, the children of Kalkan First School went back to their classrooms, to begin a new term.

First year students began one week earlier, giving them a chance to settle in before the rest of the children returned.

KTLN went to meet the school's new headmaster.  He has some interesting plans, including a wish to link up with a school in the UK.

A new head teacher
The new head is Melih Eroğlu, (pictured below).  He was previously at a school in Kaş, and before that in nearby Sütlüğen.  This posting should see him in Kalkan for at least 5 years.  His wife is an existing teacher at Kalkan First School.

The previous acting head teacher, Mustafa Bay, has moved to a post in Yeşilköy.

Melih is relishing his new role.  He told KTLN that there are many positive things going on at Kalkan First School, and he wishes to build on this good foundation.

Science is important
He shared a few of his ideas with us.  Firstly, he would like the school to have its very own science laboratory.  Currently, they don't have one.  He believes that children should be encouraged to study science, and have access to up to date resources and equipment. 

He is aware of the challenges around finding the money, to make this wish come true.  If anyone is feeling generous, around 18,000TL, (that's about £6,500), would give the school a fully kitted out lab!

Links to a UK school
The new head is also keen to open up educational and cultural exchanges between his pupils, and children of a similar age abroad.  There are schemes, promoted and financially supported through the European Commission's Education & Training department, which Melih would like to participate in. 

Initially, it would involve establishing communication channels between teachers and pupils - getting to know each other, learning about respective cultures, and perhaps working on joint educational projects.  It may even develop into exchanges, where teachers and pupils visit each other.

Melih is keen to hear from any teachers in the UK, or others who are involved in UK education, who would be interested in establishing a relationship. 

If you are interested, please get in touch with KTLN before the end of October 2011, and we can pass on your details.

KTLN wishes the new head teacher, his staff and all pupils a happy, and successful new term. 

Kalkan Turkish Local News - your window on Kalkan Turkey