The Cambodia International Education program combines practical classroom experience with structured global learning, allowing you to support English education in rural Cambodia while working towards a recognised Global Citizenship Diploma. Designed for participants who want more than a traditional volunteer placement, this program combines meaningful teaching experience with academic learning, cultural immersion, and professional development.
International Education Program Highlights
- Contribute Towards The UN's Sustainable Development Goal No.4 - Education
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 16 UCAS Points
- Gain Practical Classroom Experience Teaching Within Rural Communities
- Develop Skills in Communication, Leadership & Intercultural Collaboration
- Help Improve Future Educational & Employment Opportunities For Students
- Contribute Towards The UN's Sustainable Development Goal No.4 - Education
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 3 US Credits
- Gain Practical Classroom Experience Teaching Within Rural Communities
- Develop Skills in Communication, Leadership & Intercultural Collaboration
- Help Improve Future Educational & Employment Opportunities For Students
- Contribute Towards The UN's Sustainable Development Goal No.4 - Education
- Complete a Recognised Global Citizenship Diploma & Gain 20 ECTS Credits
- Gain Practical Classroom Experience Teaching Within Rural Communities
- Develop Skills in Communication, Leadership & Intercultural Collaboration
- Help Improve Future Educational & Employment Opportunities For Students
Why Choose the Cambodia International Education Program?
Education remains one of the most powerful tools for creating long-term social change. Although Cambodia has made significant progress rebuilding its education system over recent decades, many rural communities continue to face challenges including limited educational resources, overcrowded classrooms, and restricted access to quality English language education.
The Cambodia International Education program has been designed to provide participants with far more than an opportunity to teach overseas. It combines practical classroom experience with structured academic learning, allowing you to understand not only how education changes individual lives, but also the wider role it plays in reducing inequality, supporting economic development, and strengthening communities.
Throughout your program you will work alongside local educators to support English language learning for children from surrounding villages. At the same time, you will develop practical teaching techniques, improve your communication and leadership skills, and gain valuable insight into international education systems, community development, and intercultural learning.
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Every stage of the program has been designed to help you develop as both an educator and a global citizen, combining meaningful field experience with structured reflection to create an international learning experience that extends far beyond the classroom.
Your Global Citizenship Learning Journey
Unlike a traditional volunteer program, every participant follows a structured learning pathway designed to maximise both personal development and practical impact.
Prepare Before You Travel - Before arriving in Cambodia, you will complete online learning introducing international education, intercultural communication, ethical volunteering, child development, and the role education plays in sustainable development. This preparation provides important context for your placement and helps you understand the challenges facing education within rural communities.
Learn Through Experience - During your placement you will apply your learning by supporting English classes for children attending community education programs. Working alongside local teachers allows you to develop practical classroom confidence while contributing directly to students’ learning and future opportunities.
Reflect On Your Impact - Following your placement, you will complete guided reflective activities that encourage you to evaluate your teaching experience, analyse the wider role of education within international development, and connect your experiences in Cambodia to global issues surrounding equality, opportunity, and sustainable development. Reflection forms a key part of the Global Citizenship Diploma, transforming practical experience into recognised learning.
Background to the Cambodia International Education Program
The legacy of the Khmer Rouge regime during the 1970s had a devastating impact on Cambodia’s education system. Although significant progress has been made in rebuilding schools and expanding access to education, many rural communities continue to face challenges including teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and limited educational resources. Literacy rates remain among the lowest in Southeast Asia, while many children from disadvantaged backgrounds continue to experience barriers to educational opportunity.
As Cambodia’s economy continues to develop, English has become an increasingly valuable skill. Growth within tourism, hospitality, business, and international services has created new opportunities for young people, but these opportunities often depend upon confidence in spoken English. For many students living in rural villages, learning English represents a pathway towards higher education, skilled employment, and improved quality of life.
The Cambodia International Education program provides participants with the opportunity to support this important work by delivering free English education to children from surrounding communities. While students attend public school during the morning, they continue their learning through afternoon English classes that focus on building practical communication skills and confidence. By working alongside local educators, you help create opportunities that can positively influence students’ futures while gaining a deeper understanding of education within an international development context.
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Throughout your time in Cambodia, you will also strengthen your own leadership, communication, organisation, adaptability, and intercultural skills. Working within a completely different educational environment provides valuable professional experience while offering a unique insight into the resilience, determination, and aspirations of the local communities you will support.
Your Field Experience in Cambodia
Your field experience forms the practical foundation of the Cambodia International Education program. Working alongside experienced local coordinators and teachers, you will apply your learning by supporting English language education within a well-established community learning program serving children from surrounding rural villages.
The program is centred around Hope School, a community education project established by the local PMGY team in 2010 to improve access to English education for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. Many students travel considerable distances each day to attend lessons, demonstrating both their commitment to learning and the importance English plays in creating future opportunities. The school regularly supports more than 150 students each day, with classes organised according to age and ability.
During your placement you will prepare, deliver, and lead English lessons for students aged between 7-18 years old. Working with relatively small class sizes allows you to build meaningful relationships with the students and observe their confidence and language ability develop throughout your program. Teaching the same classes each week also enables you to monitor progress and adapt your lessons to meet the needs of individual learners.
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Beyond the classroom, education is designed to be engaging, creative, and enjoyable. Volunteers are encouraged to incorporate storytelling, games, music, arts and crafts, and interactive activities into their lessons to create a positive learning environment. Many students remain after class to socialise, ask questions, or seek additional support, creating opportunities for genuine cultural exchange that often become some of the most memorable aspects of the program.
Your Role & Typical Day in Cambodia
As a participant in the Cambodia International Education program, your primary role is to prepare and deliver engaging English lessons that help students build confidence in their communication skills while supporting their long-term educational development.
Teaching normally takes place Monday to Friday between 1pm and 6:30pm, with 4 x 1 hour lessons delivered throughout the afternoon and early evening. Between classes you will have time to prepare lessons, review activities, and collaborate with fellow participants and local coordinators to ensure each class is engaging and appropriate for the students’ needs.
Most participants lead their own classes, although those with little or no teaching experience can work alongside more experienced volunteers during their first few days, subject to availability. The program provides lesson resources, textbooks, and ongoing support, allowing you to develop confidence while gradually introducing your own teaching style and creative ideas.
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Because the school is located on the same grounds as the Volunteer House, your daily routine is relaxed and convenient. During free time you can prepare lessons, interact with the local community, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings before returning to the classroom.
One of the highlights of the week is Fun Friday, when volunteers work together to organise creative educational games, sports, arts activities, and community events that encourage learning beyond the classroom. These sessions help strengthen relationships with the students while creating an enjoyable and memorable end to each teaching week.
Other Things to Consider in Cambodia
Return Airport Transfer – Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Experience – Prior teaching experience is not required for the English Teaching program, as the presence of a fluent English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined, and resourceful, you will have a positive impact on the children's educational development.
TEFL Course – We recommend that volunteers prepare thoroughly for their teaching program overseas. To maximise your impact, consider completing our convenient, affordable, and internationally accredited 60-hour Online TEFL Course.
Accommodation Setup - Our Cambodia volunteer programs are based in Takeo Province, a rural setting approximately two hours south of Phnom Penh. Accommodation is basic, located in a remote area, and set up in a dormitory-style format. The program fosters a sense of community, with volunteers taking responsibility for cleaning and maintaining the shared living spaces. Morning chores may include tasks such as gardening, cleaning, or small renovation projects. This collective effort helps ensure a comfortable and welcoming Volunteer House for everyone.
High Impact Volunteer Location - The rural nature of this program makes it a highly authentic and rewarding experience. Volunteers often find a clearer sense of purpose and feel more connected to their contributions to the local community. This sense of impact can be highly motivating, making it easier to engage and get involved each day. The Cambodia program is ideal for those who want to maximise their volunteer experience away from the tourist-heavy distractions of more urban locations.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Home to the world’s largest religious monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling through Cambodia. Beyond the iconic temples, the city offers plenty to explore – from floating villages and lotus farms to the mesmerising Phare Circus, performed by talented local street children. Siem Reap is also a lively backpacker hub filled with great food, vibrant nightlife, and bustling markets that capture the spirit of Cambodia.
Getting There
• 10 hours from Takeo
• Overnight Bus – 13 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 3–8 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 10–20 GBP per night
• Hotel – 40+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Angkor Wat Day Pass – 28 GBP
• Floating Villages – 23 GBP
• Lotus Farms – 12–25 GBP
• Phare Circus – 22 GBP
Known as the adventure capital of Cambodia, Kampot is the perfect weekend escape for nature lovers. Just a short two-hour drive from Takeo, it offers a mix of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and river tubing. After a day of exploring, unwind with a sunset cruise on the river or enjoy the relaxed charm of this riverside town filled with cafés and boutique guesthouses.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Takeo
• Private Taxi – 38 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 2–7 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 8–20 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Sunset River Cruise – 7 GBP
• Hikes/Waterfalls – 5 GBP
• Kayaking Tour through the Mangroves – 21 GBP
• River Tubing – 3 GBP
Koh Rong is Cambodia’s island paradise, famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a favourite among backpackers looking to relax, explore, and enjoy island life. Spend your days paddleboarding, snorkelling, or joining a boat trip to see the glowing bioluminescent plankton at night. Most volunteers stay on Long Set Beach, which offers easy access, beachside accommodation, and a welcoming social scene.
Getting There
• 4 hours from Takeo
• Private Taxi & Boat – 90 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 8–15 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 20–40 GBP per night
• Beachfront Hotel – 50+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Snorkelling – 10 GBP
• BBQ & Sunset Trip – 8 GBP
• Bioluminescent Plankton Boat Tour – 5 GBP
• Waterfalls – 7 GBP (Transport)
Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh, offers a powerful and reflective experience through its historical landmarks. Just an hour away from Takeo, volunteers can visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields to learn about the Khmer Rouge era and Cambodia’s path to recovery. It’s an emotional yet vital trip that provides deep insight into the country’s history and the resilience of its people.
Getting There
• 1 hour from Takeo
• Private Taxi – 38 GBP
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Takeo
Things to Do
• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – 6 GBP
• Choeung Ek Killing Fields – 5 GBP
A two-day trip to Battambang offers a beautiful mix of culture, history, and adventure. After a five to six-hour drive, explore the town’s colonial architecture, lively markets, and the famous Bamboo Train. Visit nearby temples such as Wat Ek Phnom and Phnom Banan, and catch the spectacular bat exodus at dusk. On your second day, take a scenic boat ride along the Sangker River or visit the local museum before heading back to Takeo.
Getting There
• 6 hours from Takeo
• Bus – 9 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 3–8 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 10–15 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Bamboo Train – 5 GBP
• Bat Caves/Killing Caves – 15 GBP
• Full Day Tour (Wat Banan + Phnom Sampov) – 15 GBP
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- Two happy women in colourful bikinis enjoy a sunny beach with turquoise waters and distant island views.
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- Joyful friends relax and swim at a tropical waterfall surrounded by lush greenery in Cambodia.
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- Eight friends celebrate sunrise at Angkor Wat, sharing joyful moments against a vibrant sky and lush tropical scenery.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
On the Cambodia volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House, located in the remote village of Bakod. The accommodation is approximately a 20-minute tuk-tuk ride from Takeo, where you can find local restaurants, convenience stores, and ATMs. Most of our main volunteer projects in Cambodia are based on the same grounds as the Volunteer House, allowing you to live and work alongside other international volunteers.
Wi-Fi is available at the Volunteer House, though volunteers may also wish to purchase a local SIM card to use with an unlocked mobile phone. Communal spaces include hammocks, providing areas to relax and socialise with other volunteers when you’re not working on your project. A small café is located just off-site, and a local laundry service is available for a minimal cost. Handwashing facilities are also provided on-site.
The Volunteer House is located on the same campus as the local coordinators’ residence. This setup allows you to have your own space while still benefiting from the support and security of having the local team nearby. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn more about Cambodian culture and practise your language skills. Most of our volunteer work in Cambodia is conveniently based on the same site as the Volunteer House.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
The Volunteer House offers basic facilities. Bedrooms are typically single-sex dormitories with up to 8 people per room. Each room is equipped with air conditioning and bed linen, but please note that the air conditioning is usually turned off from 10am to 4pm to manage the power supply in the village. Fans and fridges remain operational during this time. Volunteers should note that cupboard space is not available in the dormitory rooms. Each volunteer is allocated a trunk to store their belongings, which can be secured with a small padlock (please bring your own). Alternatively, valuables can be stored securely with the local team.
Bathrooms are communal and separate from the bedrooms. There is no hot water, but this is usually not a concern as Cambodia’s climate is hot and humid throughout the year. Volunteers are advised to bring their own toiletries, as many local products, such as shampoo and shower gel, contain bleach. It is recommended to bring these items from home.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
If you prefer a private room option, you can upgrade to the Comfort Option when you register with us. Comfort rooms will accommodate a solo traveller or up to two participants travelling together, with a double bed. You will have a private en-suite bathroom, cupboard space and a fridge.
Each room is equipped with air conditioning and bed linen, but please note that the air conditioning is usually turned off from 10am to 4pm to manage the power supply in the village. Fans and fridges remain operational during this time. Bathrooms are equipped with western style facilities however, there is no hot water, but this is usually not a concern as Cambodia’s climate is hot and humid throughout the year.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1.5 Hours
Nearest ATM & Shops
20 Minute Drive
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Cambodia, you will be provided with breakfast and dinner from Monday to Friday at the Volunteer House. Breakfast typically includes toast, eggs, jam, noodles, tea, and coffee. Dinner is a mix of traditional Cambodian dishes with the occasional western meal. Filtered drinking water is available at no cost.
You will need to purchase your own lunch during the program. Volunteers often visit the local town or market a few times a week to stock up on supplies such as noodles, pasta, or snacks, which can be stored at the accommodation. Some food options are also available from the café just off-site.
If you choose to remain at the Volunteer House over the weekend, please note that meals will not be provided during this time. You will need to prepare or purchase your own food. However, many volunteers take this opportunity to travel and explore Cambodia during their free time.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Toast, Eggs, Noodles, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Not Included
Dinner
Chicken Curry, Pasta, Noodles, Jacket Potatoes
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes teaching volunteers in Cambodia of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Cambodia will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Cambodia teaching volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the teaching projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Cambodia teaching program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Cambodia, you should book your flights to Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh (airport code KTI). This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Cambodia teaching volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Cambodia, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Cambodia teaching volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Cambodia teaching volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Cambodia teaching volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Cambodia. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Cambodia’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Cambodia teaching volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Cambodia, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Cambodia teaching volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Cambodia teaching volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
