December 15, 2010
 
Dear all, Just had to write with the good news that our first Government issued certificates were received today, dated today, and handed to the boys who are still here, today.  They are delighted.  We are pleased for them too.  The Government fellow who brought the certificates was impressed with the house plans the boys have drawn.

With the roof on the main work shop area, the boys are now putting in louvre frames and glass.  We expect timber again this week which will be used to build the top storey on the office at the front entrance of the building, and when that is all sealed and waterproofed, we'll be able to lock up the building, bring the rest of the machines from Aore, and really get busy for the new school year, making work benches and classroom desks and chairs and furniture aplenty to help support the school.

We've just been across to Aore last night, and this morning Alastair measured and quoted for ten new kitchen cupboards for the staff homes there.  Depending on whether Aore Academy accepts the quote or not, that will mean some income for the school.  We expect four of our boys who have finished building this year, to stay on with us next year to help with teaching, and in supervising the workshop.  They will have to work hard to make furniture to support their own wages, but I think the dedication is there.

Five students have stayed on over year end and are helping in the workshop and making furniture.  The rest have gone to their islands or to camporee or still waiting around for boats - at this time of year they are all crowded with people returning to their islands.  We may have to change our starting and finishing times, to avoid the rush for transport.

Well just thought you'd be interested to know our happy news.  As the year draws to a close and we face another untried year, may God bless and keep each of you in His care.

Christian love,

Alastair and Jill