“Here we are not judged. We correct ourselves, we are brave”: English lessons given voluntarily in Saint-Jeanette

Around her, students are called Jacqueline, Martine, Elian, Colette or Mirille. They will come as soon as possible. Take part in discussions about Shakespeare’s language, travel or more diverse themes. “We don’t talk about politics.”one of them says reassuringly with a smile.

With notebooks or loose sheets of paper in front of them, these women sometimes rely on their small French-English dictionary or telephone translator. “English is lost in time. Trusts Elian. Later, we practiced it mainly in writing when we were in school. We’re not talking.”

All retired, “students” feel confident.

“Here we are not judged, Elian adds. It’s okay if we make mistakes. We correct each other and we are brave.” And we learn vocabulary, formulas. “It’s very different, Katya says, inviting motivated people to come forward and join the group. Sometimes we use a word we like and build sentences around it. It’s really situational, everyday life. Once, I asked an actor to guess. The goal is to communicate. “

and improve. “It’s not academic, there’s no need to learn irregular verbs by heart”, laughs Colette, very engaged.

Whether from Saint-Jeannet, La Gaude or Carros, the “students” still have to do their homework so that next week they can read the report aloud. Just improve in small steps. Not so much in everyday life, more experiences abroad… and maintaining social relationships.

“It doesn’t kill everything, but it helps.”

“It prevents people from finding themselves alone.”Jacqueline breathes. “Everyone has their problems in life. The picture is Colette. Unfortunately, some of us have been going through some tough times lately. Getting together and talking about it will help everyone experience the moment in a slightly less complicated way. It doesn’t kill everything, but it helps. It breaks the isolation.”

The participants did not know each other or knew very little before engaging in this workshop. Then a series of courses allowed them to make connections by developing their language skills. A dual passion that pleases everyone. “They say thank you when they leave, but I thank them in return, Katia appreciates it. They bring a lot to me, and they’re great meetings.”

Classes are held Thursday mornings from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and are open to active duty and retired. Interested parties may contact Katia Mandrillon via email: [email protected]