In El Pedregal, a small town close to Machachi and the volcano Cotopaxi, the local children have been given the opportunity to learn a second language through the efforts of volunteerteachers.

Phil Moore is a qualified TEFL teacher but this year he has chosen to work voluntarily.

He explains that the concept of learning another language is quite alien to these children,as most of them will never leave Ecuador.

"It might inspire them or help them to get a good job and if just one of them learns some English that is good, although I probably won't see the result of that," hestates.

According to Phil, the pupils he teaches are 'lovely kids' and are very reserved. They are afraid to ask for things unless they are offered, he tells us. Also,something in the culture prevents them from saying 'I don't know'. "Maybe theyare embarrassed to or maybe it is lost in the language somewhere," he says.

Life as a teacher in this small Ecuadorian community is very different to working in acity or in a European school. The day is not strictly structured and thetimetable is not 'regimented'.

Although the hours are officially 08:30 to 13:00, the class times can vary and, equally, Phil is able to rearrange his day if he wishes to travel to Quito for the weekend.

"Flexible is a flexible way of putting it!" he laughs.

The teachers appreciate his work, he says, but the most rewarding part of the job is the kids themselves. When one of them says good morning to him, there is a chorus of good mornings from all the children - an aspect that clearly touches him.

When askedwhat he considers to be the essential elements for somebody hoping to teach atthe school, he cites a certain level of Spanish and 'limitless enthusiasm'.

It is important for the children to continue learning English so that they remember what they have already learnt.

"I hope there is someone to take my place when I leave," Phil says, "as the children need English every day; otherwise they forget."