in the Celestial Sphere

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Giles Pratt



Hi, my name is Giles and I was one of the lucky few who went to South Africa to try and teach at some schools based around Townships in Cape Town . The thing that struck me the most was that the learners in South Africa actually wanted to learn, and seemed so happy, then returned to living standards which they should not have to endure. It really opened my eyes to how comfortable my life really is, and I am now far more content with my life as a whole.

Cape Town is a beautiful place, and looking down over the bays from the very top of Table Mountain is not easily forgotten. In fact the whole experience is unforgettable.

The visit to a Township was fantastic, and we were greeted warmly and even taken into the local’s homes. Whilst we were there, we heard many political views of the people of the Township. One man even said he felt ‘liberated’ because we had come to visit them.

The following week, we all travelled up to Sutherland to research SALT and do some observing. I’m sure everyone will say this, but I have never seen a sky so brilliantly clear and it was great to see the Milky Way the way we could.

Anyway, back in England , I study English Literature, History, Psychology and Film Studies at Dereham Sixth Form.

Astronomy has been a keen interest of mine for some time, trying to come to terms with the vastness of the Universe and the stars and planets that are contained within it.

When I'm not studying I am playing bass, which has been around 2 years, and I am a member of a band co-formed with Rob and Rich. I enjoy mountain biking, and I am particularly good at falling off and/or crashing. I like a wide range of music, ranging from the Punk explosion of the 70s, to Electro 80s, through to New Romanticism, to 90s and today’s Punk bands. I am also a fan of Underground Garage, but my musical tastes extend outside of Rock N’ Roll, to Intelligent Hip Hop, even ranging to Classical songs sometimes. And occasionally, a good Pop song is released.

I am planning to go to University after Sixth Form, but I may take a mechanics course due to my constant keen interest in cars and motorbikes. Also, I may plan a gap year and go travelling. Like Rich, being a full-time rocker would be excellent as well. For those about to rock, we salute you.