Teaching Volunteer Programs

Most Affordable – PMGY’s volunteer abroad programs are designed to be accessible to everyone passionate about making a difference. With low fees and high-impact projects, you can create meaningful change without breaking the bank.

Best Support – From the moment you join PMGY, our dedicated international and local team provide extensive, round-the-clock support to guide and assist you through every step of your incredible PMGY adventure.

Safety Prioritised – Safety is PMGY’s number one priority! We’ve taken every precaution to ensure our gap year programs are as secure and well-structured as possible, giving you peace of mind while volunteering abroad.

Extraordinary Experiences – PMGY gives you the chance to immerse yourself in incredible cultural and travel experiences fully. Create unforgettable memories while making a difference in communities around the world.

Friendships for Life – Your PMGY journey doesn’t just end with unforgettable experiences—it’s also about forming life-long friendships with fellow volunteers from across the globe. Prepare to meet like-minded individuals and make connections that last a lifetime.

TEFL Certificate – Gain an internationally accredited “Teach English as a Foreign Language” qualification alongside your PMGY teaching program. This is a fantastic way to boost your skills and your CV!

Bali Teaching Volunteers

Volunteer teaching English in Bali to help students develop valuable skills and reach their future goals. Practising with fluent, native speakers boosts their English abilities, an essential skill for securing future jobs. English has become a crucial language for Balinese people to progress in life, as it opens doors to direct communication with tourists. This, in turn, increases Bali’s global visibility and recognition.

Background to the Teaching Program

English plays a crucial role in both the formal and informal industries across Bali, as well as in the communication that supports them. From schools, offices, and banks to the shops and restaurants that are central to the island’s thriving tourist industry, English is essential. Bali has become not only a popular destination for global tourists, with its stunning landscapes and traditional culture, but also a prime location for international conferences and seminars.

PMGY’s volunteer teaching English abroad program offers volunteers the opportunity to make a real difference by helping local children in Tabanan improve their English skills. With tourism in Bali booming, the ability to speak English has become more important than ever. Although English is taught in schools by local teachers, the chance to practice with a native, fluent speaker is priceless.

Balinese people are known for their warmth and friendliness. You’ll find that the local community, the staff you work alongside, and the children you teach will welcome you with open arms. They’ll be eager to chat with you and learn about your life. Your volunteer work in Bali will not only benefit the people you teach but will also enhance your own skills. You’ll gain transferable workplace skills such as leadership, time management, and organisation, all of which will be valuable in your future career.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples​

As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, your schedule will be varied and engaging. You’ll be involved in different projects that offer free English lessons to children in Tabanan, with the primary placements organised through the Akasa Foundation. Additionally, the PMGY Bali volunteer program runs numerous English teaching projects throughout the year. This ensures that your time spent volunteering will have a lasting impact on the local community. Here are a few examples of where you could be teaching:

Akasa Kindergarten English Class – The Akasa Foundation runs a Community Learning Centre, founded by Ketut in 2011, where volunteers teach English at the Akasa Kindergarten project. Initially held in Ketut’s family home, the centre now has a permanent location just a 5-minute walk from the Volunteer House. Ketut, who has lived in the Tabanan community all her life, noticed that children from less privileged backgrounds lacked educational opportunities. This inspired her to establish the Foundation and invite international volunteers. As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, you’ll play a key role in supporting these children’s education. The centre’s goal is to offer essential early education to preschoolers from low-income families and to provide additional support to children already in school.

Akasa English Course – As part of the Akasa Foundation, the local team runs an extracurricular English course for village children. This program gives students the chance to improve their English in the afternoon, building their confidence with Volunteers in Bali. Originally a part of the Akasa school, this program is now run at the Akasa Learning Centre, just a 2-minute walk from the Akasa House. The students range in age and ability, providing an opportunity for you to get creative and offer exciting after-school lessons that inspire a love of learning and English.

Elementary and Junior High School Program – As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, you’ll visit several elementary and junior high schools in the region. Each year, we partner with around 12 schools to provide English lessons, with volunteers teaching for around 3 hours per week. These schools are typically located 10-25 minutes by bemo from the Volunteer House. While Balinese teachers cover general English, students benefit greatly from practicing with native speakers. The children are eager to learn, and their teachers often join in the lessons to improve their own teaching skills. It is a rewarding experience, and the students’ gratitude will warm your heart, often shown when they touch your hand to their forehead as a symbol of receiving wisdom.

Kaniva Hospitality University – During term time, you may have the chance to visit Kaniva Hospitality University, where students are training for careers in the tourism industry. These students are eager to improve their English in preparation for working in hotels or the cruise industry, with dreams of moving abroad to places like Dubai or Japan. Volunteer lessons help them gain exposure to different accents and boost their confidence in speaking English with tourists. Lesson topics will be provided, and students are encouraged to ask questions and engage in meaningful conversations. Your experience will inspire them to pursue their goals and immerse themselves in learning English.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day​

As a volunteer in Bali, your main role will be to share your time, knowledge, and skills with local communities. By helping students build confidence in their spoken and conversational English, you’ll be opening up a world of opportunities for their future.

Your volunteering abroad programs run from Monday to Thursday, with Friday being optional but encouraged. The morning sessions typically run from 8am to 12pm, and the afternoon sessions from 1pm to 4pm. Your specific timetable will depend on your individual schedule. If your project is not within walking distance, transport is provided by bemo, usually taking no more than 20 minutes.

When you teach English in Bali, you may be leading the class on your own, working alongside a partner, or part of a small group. Volunteers typically teach two or three classes per day, with timetables often split between two of the placement locations. The Akasa Foundation program is usually the main teaching project.

The Akasa English Course runs four different sessions throughout the week: Kindergarten (4-6 years), Kids (7-9 years), Elementary (10-12 years) and Middle (13 – 17 years). These sessions take place at the Akasa Learning Centre, which is conveniently located near the Volunteer House. Depending on volunteer and student numbers, you may work in smaller groups or even teach one-to-one to ensure the students get the most from the free tuition.

Preschool years are widely regarded as the most crucial for language learning, making the Kindergarten classes especially important. Here, you’ll focus on introducing basic English vocabulary, such as colours, shapes, and animals. As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, you’ll need to be creative and patient, though a local teacher will be on hand to guide you. The Beginner’s class builds on this by introducing simple sentence structures alongside familiar topics.

PMGY’s advanced community classes aim to make learning English a fun experience, especially after the children have had a long day at school! Get creative and teach through songs, art, and sport. You’ll usually teach alongside another volunteer, working as a team to make the lessons even more engaging.

The Akasa Foundation program typically sees around 60-100 children per day across all classes, ranging from 3 years old to young adults. The more preparation you do, the more rewarding the experience will be for both you and the children. We always ensure local coordinators and teachers are present to support the project and assist with classroom management.

Balinese children are enthusiastic learners, but this excitement can sometimes lead to a little chaos! It’s important to maintain control of the class to keep everyone focused. This is a highly rewarding project that provides free English education to children in Tabanan, giving them the confidence to engage with tourists and improve their future prospects.

The presence of an English-speaking volunteer can greatly enhance the children’s pronunciation and help local teachers who may benefit from additional support in their own teaching. As a volunteer teaching English in Bali, we encourage you to make your lessons as interactive as possible. Use fun educational games like word searches, Hangman, or quiz competitions to keep the students engaged. Songs, art, sport, and music are also excellent tools for making lessons more enjoyable. The volunteers provide the children with a unique insight into other cultures, offering them a global perspective that is both valuable and enriching.

What you teach when you volunteer in Bali is up to you, though there are syllabuses and past volunteer materials available for inspiration and guidance. We also have a resource library at the PMGY office for volunteers to use, and the children are provided with exercise and learning books. Additionally, the local team runs weekly lesson planning sessions, giving you the chance to share ideas, discuss strategies, and prepare for the week ahead.

Given the heat and high temperatures in Bali, shorter, split sessions throughout the day are more effective for everyone. This allows volunteer energy levels to remain high, ensuring that each morning and afternoon session is filled with positive energy. We encourage you to use your lunch break to relax, refresh, or plan for future activities, so you can make the most of your time at the project.

Cambodia Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia with PMGY, you’ll help students build a vital skill that can open doors to their future ambitions. Engaging with fluent, native English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are crucial for future employment opportunities. This program is an excellent chance for volunteers teaching English in Cambodia to put their leadership skills into action while making a meaningful and lasting difference in the classroom.

Background to the Teaching Program

The Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s left Cambodia’s education system in ruins. Since then, the Cambodian government has made significant efforts to rebuild it, but progress has been slow. Cambodia continues to have one of the lowest literacy rates in Asia, especially among women. High dropout rates, a shortage of qualified teachers, and overcrowded classrooms remain major challenges facing the country’s education system.

Cambodia’s economy is transitioning from traditional sustenance farming to one driven by industry and services. However, this economic shift has widened social inequality. Less educated and economically disadvantaged individuals are often pushed into lower-paid jobs with limited opportunities for career progression. The growing need for skilled labour has made English language proficiency increasingly essential, particularly in the service sector, which is critical to Cambodia’s expanding tourism industry.

For many children in rural villages, learning English is viewed as the key to improving their lives. It opens doors to better job opportunities in fields such as accounting and hospitality, offering a higher standard of living for themselves and their families. As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will play a vital role in providing free English lessons to children from low-income families. While the children attend public school in the mornings, they continue their education in the afternoons through our English education program. This project focuses heavily on developing English language skills.

During your time teaching English in Cambodia, it is important to bring energy, enthusiasm, and creativity to your lessons. Many students benefit greatly from learning directly from a fluent English speaker, helping them to build confidence and improve their future prospects.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples​

Hope School – As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will be based at a community education program set up by our local team in 2010. The school aims to provide accessible English lessons to children from underprivileged villages. The opportunity to learn English is scarce in this rural area, so children are willing to travel up to 7km each way for just one hour of lessons each day. The school typically has over 150 children attending daily.

Volunteers teaching English in Cambodia are responsible for preparing, delivering, and leading lessons and activities for the children. Classes are organised by ability and age, with group sizes ranging from 5 to 30 children. The children are aged between 7 and 18 years, with younger students usually attending in the afternoon and older students coming in the late afternoon.

As a volunteer teaching English abroad in Cambodia, you will teach a variety of different classes throughout the day. After each class, the children return to their nearby village, and a new class with a different group of students begins. Typically, volunteer work in Cambodia involves leading four classes per day.

Teaching the same classes at consistent times helps you establish a structured routine and build rapport with the children. It also allows you to observe the students’ progress over time, from the beginning of your program to the end. After lessons, many students stay behind to socialise and play games, and some may even ask for one-to-one tuition with volunteers.

As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you are encouraged to make your lessons fun and interactive. This might include storytelling, singing songs, or engaging in arts and crafts activities. There is plenty of outdoor space where you can take the class for playtime at the end of a lesson. If you have a special skill or interest, you are welcome to incorporate this into your lessons too. The project provides a range of resources and textbooks to support your teaching. As a volunteer with children in Cambodia, you are also encouraged to introduce creative and engaging methods for managing the class.

To make the most of your time teaching English in Cambodia, it’s important to plan your lessons in advance. Proper planning will ensure that you deliver the best learning experience for the children. The more time you dedicate to preparation, the smoother your classes will run. You can use the mornings before the project starts or your afternoon break to plan and prepare your lessons.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, your role will involve preparing, delivering, and leading lessons for students. The typical working hours are from 1pm to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday. During this time, you’ll usually teach 1-hour lessons with a 1.5-hour break in between. As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will also need to dedicate time to plan your lessons.

Most volunteers lead their own classes, but if you prefer, our team can pair you with a more experienced volunteer to guide you at the start. Please note that this depends on volunteer availability at the time.

The village school is located on the same grounds as the Volunteer House, meaning you’ll only need to take a short walk to reach the project. During your free time, you can prepare lessons, relax in the Volunteer House, or explore the nearby villages.

Volunteers and coordinators have introduced a Fun Friday initiative to the program. On Fun Fridays, volunteers can come together to organise exciting activities for the children. Occasionally, volunteers also arrange and fund an afternoon trip for the children outside of the program. While contributing to these activities is encouraged, participation is completely voluntary, and the cost is typically shared among the volunteers.

Cambodia Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia with PMGY, you’ll help students build a vital skill that can open doors to their future ambitions. Engaging with fluent, native English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are crucial for future employment opportunities. This program is an excellent chance for volunteers teaching English in Cambodia to put their leadership skills into action while making a meaningful and lasting difference in the classroom.

Background to the Teaching Program

The Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s left Cambodia’s education system in ruins. Since then, the Cambodian government has made significant efforts to rebuild it, but progress has been slow. Cambodia continues to have one of the lowest literacy rates in Asia, especially among women. High dropout rates, a shortage of qualified teachers, and overcrowded classrooms remain major challenges facing the country’s education system.

Cambodia’s economy is transitioning from traditional sustenance farming to one driven by industry and services. However, this economic shift has widened social inequality. Less educated and economically disadvantaged individuals are often pushed into lower-paid jobs with limited opportunities for career progression. The growing need for skilled labour has made English language proficiency increasingly essential, particularly in the service sector, which is critical to Cambodia’s expanding tourism industry.

For many children in rural villages, learning English is viewed as the key to improving their lives. It opens doors to better job opportunities in fields such as accounting and hospitality, offering a higher standard of living for themselves and their families. As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will play a vital role in providing free English lessons to children from low-income families. While the children attend public school in the mornings, they continue their education in the afternoons through our English education program. This project focuses heavily on developing English language skills.

During your time teaching English in Cambodia, it is important to bring energy, enthusiasm, and creativity to your lessons. Many students benefit greatly from learning directly from a fluent English speaker, helping them to build confidence and improve their future prospects.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples​

Hope School – As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will be based at a community education program set up by our local team in 2010. The school aims to provide accessible English lessons to children from underprivileged villages. The opportunity to learn English is scarce in this rural area, so children are willing to travel up to 7km each way for just one hour of lessons each day. The school typically has over 150 children attending daily.

Volunteers teaching English in Cambodia are responsible for preparing, delivering, and leading lessons and activities for the children. Classes are organised by ability and age, with group sizes ranging from 5 to 30 children. The children are aged between 7 and 18 years, with younger students usually attending in the afternoon and older students coming in the late afternoon.

As a volunteer teaching English abroad in Cambodia, you will teach a variety of different classes throughout the day. After each class, the children return to their nearby village, and a new class with a different group of students begins. Typically, volunteer work in Cambodia involves leading four classes per day.

Teaching the same classes at consistent times helps you establish a structured routine and build rapport with the children. It also allows you to observe the students’ progress over time, from the beginning of your program to the end. After lessons, many students stay behind to socialise and play games, and some may even ask for one-to-one tuition with volunteers.

As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you are encouraged to make your lessons fun and interactive. This might include storytelling, singing songs, or engaging in arts and crafts activities. There is plenty of outdoor space where you can take the class for playtime at the end of a lesson. If you have a special skill or interest, you are welcome to incorporate this into your lessons too. The project provides a range of resources and textbooks to support your teaching. As a volunteer with children in Cambodia, you are also encouraged to introduce creative and engaging methods for managing the class.

To make the most of your time teaching English in Cambodia, it’s important to plan your lessons in advance. Proper planning will ensure that you deliver the best learning experience for the children. The more time you dedicate to preparation, the smoother your classes will run. You can use the mornings before the project starts or your afternoon break to plan and prepare your lessons.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, your role will involve preparing, delivering, and leading lessons for students. The typical working hours are from 1pm to 6:30pm, Monday to Friday. During this time, you’ll usually teach 1-hour lessons with a 1.5-hour break in between. As a volunteer teaching English in Cambodia, you will also need to dedicate time to plan your lessons.

Most volunteers lead their own classes, but if you prefer, our team can pair you with a more experienced volunteer to guide you at the start. Please note that this depends on volunteer availability at the time.

The village school is located on the same grounds as the Volunteer House, meaning you’ll only need to take a short walk to reach the project. During your free time, you can prepare lessons, relax in the Volunteer House, or explore the nearby villages.

Volunteers and coordinators have introduced a Fun Friday initiative to the program. On Fun Fridays, volunteers can come together to organise exciting activities for the children. Occasionally, volunteers also arrange and fund an afternoon trip for the children outside of the program. While contributing to these activities is encouraged, participation is completely voluntary, and the cost is typically shared among the volunteers.

Costa Rica Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Costa Rica, you’ll play a key role in supporting local teachers across schools in Coronado. In addition to this, PMGY’s Costa Rica volunteer programs offer an excellent opportunity to improve your Spanish skills. By blending your passion for teaching with a commitment to language learning, you can make the most of your teach English in Costa Rica experience!

Background to the Teaching Program

The vibrant city of Coronado, located in the suburbs of San José, is witnessing a growing population and expanding communities. However, this growth has placed a strain on classrooms, with teachers often managing as many as 30 students. The need for additional support has never been greater.

For over a century, Costa Rica has provided free education to all its citizens, achieving an impressive literacy rate of 95%. Most students graduate from secondary school with specialised training, equipping them with skills to stand out when seeking job opportunities. This commitment to education stems from a belief in its transformative power to create a skilled workforce capable of advancing opportunities for Costa Rica.

The mission of the Costa Rican school system is “To create a well-educated populace that will one day improve their national (and even global) lot.” This community-focused approach prioritises collective success over individual achievements, reflecting the nation’s values.

Costa Rica was the first country in Central America to make education free for all citizens in 1869. Primary education is mandatory for children aged 6 to 13, followed by an optional five-year secondary education. The final two years of secondary school offer specialisations in subjects such as computer science, media and technology, clinical assistance, and childcare training.

Both public and private schools adhere to a curriculum set by the Ministry of Education. However, private schools often provide additional classes to prepare students for study abroad. These private programs come at a high cost, accessible only to families with significant financial means.

Social class plays a significant role in Costa Rican society. While education is highly valued, access to certain opportunities remains limited for those from lower-income backgrounds. However, free education and family sacrifices can sometimes provide students with a pathway to enhanced prospects. This is particularly true for public school students who receive free assistance, such as English classes, which can open doors to further education.

PMGY Costa Rica is proud to support teachers in Coronado by providing assistance and lessons. While many local teachers have studied with foreign educators at university, their English skills often developed later in life. To prepare our volunteers for this impactful role, the teaching program includes one week of Spanish language classes at the start of your project. These lessons will help you connect effectively with both students and teachers.

Volunteer opportunities with PMGY give you the chance to make a meaningful difference when you teach English in Costa Rica. At our volunteer teaching English abroad projects, your energy, enthusiasm, and creativity will be key. Students benefit greatly from learning English from fluent speakers, and as a volunteer teaching English in Costa Rica, your time and skills can create a lasting impact on their lives.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples​

Escuela San Francisco – Located just 1.7 km from the centre of Coronado, Escuela San Francisco has been serving the local community since 1996. The school provides education for around 400 students aged 7 to 12, with class sizes of up to 25 students. Children attending the school come from the surrounding neighbourhoods, creating a close-knit community environment. The school is easily accessible on foot from the volunteer accommodation, with a local bus also available for those who prefer not to walk.

As a volunteer in Costa Rica, you will support the school’s English teachers by assisting during lessons and helping to deliver engaging classroom activities for children from first to sixth grade. Volunteers may also help with extracurricular English sessions, encouraging students to build their confidence through conversation, games, and interactive learning. In some classes, you may work with children who have additional learning needs, providing valuable support alongside the teaching staff. Your enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to get involved will help create a positive learning environment while giving students extra encouragement to develop their English language skills.

Community Based Educational Centres – In some situations, volunteers may be placed in other schools or community programs in Coronado or nearby areas. Each centre varies in age group, structure, and teaching style, with some offering a more traditional classroom approach, while others provide open and informal learning spaces.

These differences form part of the experience. They encourage volunteers to adapt, show initiative, and create activities that fit the setting and the needs of the students.

The teaching program in Costa Rica suits individuals who are proactive and open minded, who enjoy supporting children and want to make a clear contribution to their learning environment. Through teaching, you will also strengthen your Spanish, build classroom experience, and form connections with Costa Rican families and educators.

The primary teaching placement is usually Escuela San Francisco. However, placements can change depending on placement availability, holiday schedules and the needs of the community. Such flexibility gives volunteers the chance to experience a variety of teaching settings and offer support where it is most helpful.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day​​

As a volunteer teaching English in Costa Rica, you will take an active role in leading lessons and guiding young learners. You will receive orientation and helpful advice from the local team, and you will be encouraged to use your own ideas and initiative throughout your placement.

A standard day runs from around 8:30am in the morning to 11:30am in the morning, Monday to Friday. As a volunteer, your mornings are spent planning and leading simple activities that keep children engaged and curious. You might use songs, games, stories, drawing, or basic crafts to introduce new words and easy conversational expressions. Much of your time is focused on encouraging participation and helping children gain confidence through gentle interaction. You will also spend moments working with individuals or small groups who benefit from extra guidance, offering support suited to their pace and comfort. From time to time, you may help keep the classroom organised or assist with small community events, contributing to a welcoming and supportive learning space.

Each centre has its own rhythm, and there may not always be a local teacher leading every session. Volunteers are encouraged to approach each day with patience, initiative, and an open mind, creating lessons that suit the needs of the children in front of them.

English teaching placements are usually 15 to 25 minutes from the volunteer accommodation. A bus stop sits directly outside both the accommodation and the Spanish school, making the journey straightforward. Alternatively, you can use private transport options such as Uber, although these are generally more costly. To help you settle in, the local team will walk you through the routes to your project so you feel comfortable travelling to and from your placement.

Ecuador Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Ecuador, you’ll work alongside local teachers, providing valuable support in schools across Quito. In addition to making a meaningful impact, PMGY’s Ecuador volunteer programs offer a fantastic opportunity to improve your Spanish. Blend English language lessons with the rich history and influences of indigenous culture, creating a unique and rewarding experience as you teach English in Ecuador.

Background to the Teaching Program

Ecuador is recognised as having one of the most developed education systems in South America. According to the Global View, the school system is well-regarded, and the government requires all school-aged children to attend classes until they reach a basic level of education.

This commitment extends beyond mainstream education. Over the years, government and local organisations have worked to improve educational opportunities for special needs students, offering programs from pre-primary to professional studies for over 30,000 students with special needs.

In mainstream education, public schools maintain a high level of enrolled children, ensuring government standards are met. However, participation drops significantly in high school-aged students (15+), especially in rural areas.

While the government provides education for primary and secondary public students, families often struggle with additional costs for transportation and extra classes. These challenges mean many students cannot progress to higher education, leaving them unable to speak English proficiently. This limits their opportunities to secure jobs in sectors like tourism, where English is an asset.

Private schools typically see higher levels of student involvement, meeting the requirements for university and advanced training. Many private institutions, often run by churches, combine religious education with maths, science, Spanish, and other languages. Although there are growing numbers of private and international schools offering English courses, spaces remain limited.

PMGY’s volunteer teaching English in Ecuador program provides a platform to make a meaningful impact. At our volunteer teaching English abroad projects, your energy, enthusiasm, and creativity will make a significant difference. Many students will benefit immensely from learning English from fluent speakers, enhancing their prospects for the future.

As a volunteer teaching English in Ecuador, it’s essential to dedicate your time and skills effectively to maximise your impact. Whether you’re inspiring students or helping them achieve their educational goals, you’ll play a vital role in shaping brighter futures. If you’re considering gap year volunteering programs, our projects in Ecuador offer fantastic opportunities to make a lasting difference.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

The Federico Gauss Secondary School – Federico Gauss Secondary School offers a unique teaching environment, blending indigenous cultural beliefs with a creative curriculum. As a private institution, the school caters to young adults aged 12-18, many of whom have experienced behavioural challenges in other educational settings. Class sizes range from 8 to 24 students, grouped by ability, and cover subjects such as maths, science, English, and arts, including computer science, media, and history.

The teaching program runs from 8am to 12pm, with additional tutoring opportunities available in the afternoons until 2pm. The school’s main focus is improving the English skills of Quito’s future generations. While English is taught in many primary schools, the curriculum is often basic, leaving students with minimal vocabulary and limited speaking ability.

As a volunteer in Ecuador, you’ll work closely with teachers to prepare lessons, assist with marking, tutor students, and engage during class breaks. There’s also a sports yard where you can help with physical education activities.

Volunteers with media or computer science experience can offer valuable support in these areas. You might assist with film projects, teaching skills like interviewing, broadcasting, and using recording equipment. Additionally, you could help students learn software like Microsoft Office, video editing, or basic computer use. Students are eager to explore the arts and develop new skills, making this a fulfilling opportunity to teach English in Ecuador.

This structured placement is a popular choice for PMGY volunteers, with feedback consistently highlighting its rewarding and productive nature.

Escuela y Colegio Politécnico – Located in the north of Quito, Colegio Politécnico is a forward-thinking educational institution focused on equipping young people with the skills needed for future success. With over two decades of experience, the school emphasises a well-rounded education rooted in science and the arts. It currently educates around 240 students aged 6-18, preparing them for academic and professional achievements.

As an international volunteer teaching English in Ecuador, you’ll provide vital support to local teachers in both primary and secondary classrooms. Your role will focus on enhancing students’ English language skills, particularly vocabulary, pronunciation, and conversational abilities. Volunteers engage students through listening, reading, speaking, and writing activities, providing one-on-one support to boost their confidence and communication skills.

This immersive experience not only benefits the students but also offers volunteers a deeper understanding of Ecuador’s educational system and cultural landscape. It’s a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable teaching experience.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

Volunteer work in Ecuador involves providing support to local teachers during class schedules. Your role includes assisting with lesson preparation, tutoring students, and engaging with them during class breaks. Volunteers are encouraged to dedicate an hour or two each day to preparing for lessons if requested by the teacher.

For those volunteer teaching English in Ecuador, the projects are generally well-resourced. If basic supplies are lacking, volunteers are encouraged to inform the local team, who will do their best to assist. For additional materials, there are excellent shops in town where resources can be purchased. The teaching program typically runs from 8am to 12pm, Monday to Friday, with occasional opportunities to assist with tutoring sessions in the afternoons.

Most English teaching placements are located within a short walking distance from the host family or require a brief bus ride. Bus stops are conveniently situated near the host family, and the local team will help you learn the routes to and from your project. For added convenience, volunteers may choose to take an Uber, but this option is more expensive compared to public transport.

This program offers a fantastic opportunity to teach English in Ecuador, combining meaningful contributions to local schools with the chance to immerse yourself in the culture and community.

Ghana Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Ghana, you’ll provide essential support to schools in Accra. PMGY’s Ghana volunteer programs give you the chance to make a meaningful impact by helping young children develop their English skills, which are key to improving their future job prospects. Bring your passion, energy, and enthusiasm to inspire learning in a new cultural setting. In addition to teaching English, you’ll have opportunities to teach other subjects such as Science, Maths, and Art, further enriching your experience as you teach English in Ghana.

Background to the Teaching Program

Ghana is a multilingual country with around 80 languages spoken, many of which are local dialects used only within specific communities. English, inherited from the colonial era, is the country’s official language. However, in many local areas, English is not widely known or spoken.

Interacting with fluent, native English speakers helps significantly improve language skills, which are essential for future employment. Education is a government priority in Ghana, with the implementation of Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education between 1996 and 2005 allowing many poorer families to send their children to school.

Despite these advancements, challenges such as overcrowded classrooms, a lack of educational materials, and weak infrastructure persist. These issues make the educational system fragile, yet you’ll find children eager to learn and excited to see you. If you’re creative and determined, you can make a real difference.

Volunteer opportunities in Ghana provided by PMGY offer a platform to positively impact local communities by teaching English. Many children are keen to improve their English, and as a volunteer teaching English abroad, your support can be invaluable. To teach English in Ghana effectively, it’s important to dedicate your time and skills thoughtfully, ensuring your contributions leave a lasting impact.

Teaching methods in Ghana often rely on repetition, which can result in children memorising information without fully understanding it. Additionally, discipline and teaching styles can differ significantly from Western norms, and conditions such as overcrowded classrooms may be challenging, which can sometimes lead to culture shock.

As you teach English as a volunteer in Ghana, you’ll primarily focus on core subjects but will also have opportunities to organise extra-curricular activities such as sports. Physical education is a weekly activity in many schools. For volunteers interested in specialising in specific subjects, prior experience is helpful.

You’ll also work with younger classes, where you can lead creative and relaxed activities like singing songs, dancing, storytelling, and colouring. These sessions provide children with valuable cultural exposure, allowing them to learn about different people, places, and traditions.

PMGY’s teaching volunteer opportunities in Ghana provide a platform to make a meaningful impact. When you teach English in Ghana, maintaining energy, enthusiasm, and creativity is essential. Your presence as a fluent English speaker will greatly benefit students, helping them improve their language skills and opening doors to brighter futures.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples​

Victorian Preparatory School – At Victorian Preparatory School, based in the Teshie suburb of Accra, volunteers work with children aged around 4 to 15, supporting local teachers across subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, Creative Arts, and PE. Your first day at the school is observational, giving you time to settle in, understand the classroom routines, and meet the pupils and teachers. From your second day, you will begin assisting with lessons and engaging directly with students, who are welcoming, curious, and eager to learn. Each day at the school is lively and rewarding, shaped by the children’s enthusiasm and warmth.

Alongside classroom support, you can help organise learning games, reading activities, and creative sessions such as drawing, colouring, singing, and simple sports. With younger pupils, this may also include helping with basic classroom routines. The additional support from volunteers allows teachers to give more individual attention in classes that are often large and under resourced. A positive and proactive attitude helps build strong relationships with both staff and students.

Vicmens Preparatory School and other under resourced schools within the Teshie community offer volunteers the chance to make a meaningful contribution to local education. These schools typically have large class sizes, often with 35 to 45 students, and limited access to learning materials. This makes the presence of volunteers especially valuable, particularly for English language support.

Volunteers usually follow a simple timetable and work as teaching assistants, with opportunities to lead small group activities or entire lessons. By helping with reading, writing, pronunciation, and classroom activities, you support local teachers while bringing fresh energy and ideas into the classroom.

As you complete your volunteer work in Ghana, you play an important role in supporting teachers and encouraging students to build confidence in their abilities. By sharing your time and spoken English, you help strengthen learning foundations and contribute to brighter educational opportunities for young people in the Teshie community.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day​​

As a volunteer teaching English in Ghana, your role involves assisting local teachers as well as planning and leading your own lessons. You’ll focus on creating a more student-oriented approach to teaching that is interactive and engaging. It’s important to remain open-minded and understand that change takes time, but your efforts to promote best practices in teaching English will contribute to long-term improvements.

In general, your volunteer abroad program runs Monday to Friday for around 3–5 hours a day. Typical project hours are from 9am to 2pm, with lunch taken at the project site.

Transport to and from the teaching project is not included in your Program Fee. Most volunteers travel by trusted, known taxi drivers who take them to and from the project site each day. During orientation, the local team will guide you on how to connect with these drivers and navigate the taxi system. Be prepared for heavy traffic and poor road conditions in Accra, as the journey from the Volunteer House to the project can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Your dedication and creativity as a volunteer will make a lasting impact on the students, enriching their learning experience and helping them develop essential skills.

India Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in India, you’ll play a key role in helping students build essential skills to achieve their future aspirations. Engaging with fluent, native English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are vital for securing future employment opportunities. This program offers the perfect chance for English teaching volunteers in India to apply their leadership skills while making a meaningful, lasting impact on underprivileged communities.

Background to the Teaching Program

India has experienced rapid economic growth in recent years, yet approximately 28% of the population still lives below the poverty line. The stark contrast in wealth is evident, and the extreme differences in living conditions can be confronting. Sadly, life in the slums remains a harsh reality for many.

Education holds significant importance in Indian culture, but the education system is still developing. Class sizes are often far too large, and schools are severely understaffed. To address this, PMGY supports two schools located within Faridabad’s largest slum community. These efforts aim to encourage parents to send their children to school rather than leaving them to wander the streets, beg, or collect rubbish to earn money.

The children attending these schools range in age from 3 to 16. The facilities are very basic and often cramped, given their location in the slum areas. Despite these challenges, the children’s enthusiasm and eagerness to learn are truly inspiring. Volunteers teaching English in India play a vital role in supporting the limited local staff. The presence of fluent English speakers greatly enhances the children’s educational development and future prospects.

When there are more volunteers teaching English in India, PMGY can expand its support to additional slum communities and disadvantaged areas. This helps us provide more English classes and further contribute to community development. If you’re seeking inspiration for gap year ideas, our volunteer programs in India offer incredible opportunities to make a meaningful impact.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples​

Sector 10 Program – Established by the PMGY local team, this volunteer teaching English abroad project provides free basic primary education for children from the Sector 10 community. This is the same community where the local team is based, and they are passionate about giving back by creating opportunities for children from underprivileged backgrounds.

Around 50 children, aged 3-15, attend the Sector 10 program each day. The children are usually divided into two groups: younger children and slightly older children.

As an English teaching volunteer in India, you’ll primarily work with the older children on education-focused activities. These include teaching basic English and Maths, planning lessons, and organising engaging educational activities. Volunteers teaching English in India are encouraged to discuss additional ideas with the project coordinator to tailor their approach while keeping the experience fun and engaging.

Many of the older children attending the program are responsible for their younger siblings during the day. While these older students focus on their education, childcare volunteers step in to care for the younger children, keeping them engaged with arts and crafts, playground games, and hygiene education.

The project typically runs for about three hours each morning. The day begins with the national anthem, nursery rhymes, and group exercises. Afterward, childcare volunteers focus on the younger children while teaching volunteers work with the older group. The final hour brings everyone back together for Bollywood dancing and snack time. A local teacher and coordinator are always available to guide and support volunteers throughout the day.

Volunteers teaching English in India may also get the chance to observe or participate in medical projects based within the Sector 10 community, providing a unique opportunity to learn about other impactful initiatives.

Prerna Teaching Placement – This inspiring centre offers free education and care for children from slum communities, allowing their parents or older siblings to work or further their own education. Many primary caregivers in India are young mothers or older siblings, so this support plays a crucial role in improving the family’s overall prospects.

At the centre, volunteers are essential in delivering English and Maths lessons to students from grades 1 to 8. While challenges such as home-life disruptions can affect attendance, the program’s consistency helps students establish routines, track their progress through assessments, and prepare for exams to improve their English skills.

The number of children attending each day typically ranges from 10 to 35. Volunteers are encouraged to be proactive and fully engaged during their 3-4 hours onsite to maximise their impact. With a variety of resources and workbooks available, this project is ideal for volunteers who want to focus on teaching English while making a meaningful contribution.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day​​

As a volunteer in India, you’ll have the rewarding opportunity to lead English and Maths lessons for one or more classes in an underprivileged school. Volunteers teaching English in India are also welcome to teach additional subjects, such as Science and Geography, based on their interests and the school’s needs.

If you’re new to teaching, there’s no need to worry! To teach English in India successfully, all you need is energy, creativity, patience, and a proactive attitude. Our local coordinators are available to provide guidance on lesson planning and content if needed. However, it’s important for volunteers to take the initiative in assessing the educational levels and needs of their students.

The teaching project typically runs for 3-4 hours each morning, Monday to Friday, with standard hours from 9am to 12:30pm. However, these timings may vary depending on the school’s requirements. We encourage volunteers to use their free time outside the project to prepare lessons in advance. If you’re new to teaching, your confidence will grow quickly after leading a few classes, and advance planning will make each session run more smoothly.

During your first few days, you’ll usually assist a local teacher or work alongside another volunteer to become familiar with the class. After this initial period, you may be asked to lead classes independently due to staff shortages. If you’re uncomfortable teaching alone, we will do our best to pair you with a local teacher or fellow volunteer to ensure you feel supported.

PMGY’s India volunteer program includes a private transport network to take you to and from your project each day. You’ll travel by tuk-tuk or minivan, and this service is included in your Program Fee.

Nepal Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Nepal, you will have a wonderful opportunity to make a meaningful impact at a community level while immersing yourself in Nepal’s fascinating culture. From kindergartens to primary schools, you’ll assist in lessons or lead classes, educating and inspiring the next generation and preparing them for brighter futures.

Background to the Teaching Program

As a volunteer teaching English abroad in Nepal, your role is to help students develop vital English skills that will empower them to achieve their future goals. Conversing with fluent English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are crucial for better employment opportunities. Through your volunteer work in Nepal, you’ll contribute to the education of young people, helping to drive economic, political, and social progress.

Unfortunately, Nepal’s education system suffers from underinvestment, with many schools lacking qualified teachers, especially for English. This has led to high illiteracy rates, with 41% of the adult population unable to read or write, limiting career prospects to low-paying manual labour jobs.

Tourism is Nepal’s largest industry outside of agriculture and offers lucrative job opportunities. However, English proficiency is a key requirement for these roles. As government schools often provide limited English education, only children from wealthier families attending private international schools receive quality language instruction. By volunteering to teach English in Nepal, you’ll offer hope and inspiration to students who lack access to private education, opening doors to brighter futures. If you’re seeking volunteer gap year options, our Nepal projects provide incredible opportunities to make a lasting difference.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

During your Nepal volunteer program, you’ll be placed in a local school or kindergarten that serves underprivileged communities. Depending on the project’s needs at the time, you may also have the chance to work in a day-care centre, providing basic education and care to pre-school children.

Smart Kids Kindergarten – Situated in Kathmandu Valley, this kindergarten was established in 2015 with a focus on child-centred education. It provides a fun and engaging learning environment for children aged 3 and older. Despite limited resources and minimal English communication, this placement offers an excellent opportunity to teach English and boost children’s confidence. Activities are interactive, focusing on learning through play to help young learners grow.

Chitwan Primary School – Volunteers teaching English in Nepal may be placed in this small school in Chitwan town in southern Nepal. Class sizes typically range from 20 to 30 students, aged 5 to early teens. You’ll often work with one teacher throughout your placement, following a curriculum or designing your own lessons depending on the school’s resources. Creativity and imagination go a long way in overcoming limited materials, making this a rewarding challenge for volunteers.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day​

You’ll start your day early with your host family, enjoying breakfast before heading to your placement. Depending on your location, your project may be a short walk from your homestay, or transport will be provided.

Your primary role as a volunteer in Nepal is to teach English. However, there may also be opportunities to teach other subjects like Maths and Arts. While local staff are available to assist, most international volunteers will lead their own lessons. Lessons are informal, allowing volunteers the freedom to be creative with their teaching methods.

To make lessons engaging, volunteers teaching English in Nepal are encouraged to use interactive activities, such as games, songs, and art. Educational games like Hangman, Hot Seat, or team quizzes are effective ways to build vocabulary and inspire learning. Flashcards, stickers, and souvenirs from your home country can also enhance lessons, making them both fun and educational.

Most schools have basic resources, though some offer outdoor spaces, playgrounds, and a selection of books and toys. You might wish to bring extra materials, such as educational books or games, to support your teaching. Resources can be purchased locally, which is a cost-effective way to support the local economy.

Volunteers typically teach 3–5 hours per day, Monday to Friday. Schools often start around 9–10am, with kindergartens beginning earlier. After finishing at 2–4pm, you’ll have free time to explore your neighbourhood, visit local markets, or join cultural activities.

Nepal Monk Teaching Volunteers

Are you ready to immerse yourself in a completely new culture while sharing your skills? As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, you’ll step into a fascinating way of life. Live within a traditional Nepalese Buddhist monastery and embrace this unique experience. Join the monks in their daily routines, start your mornings with peaceful meditation before sunrise, and spend your day sharing knowledge and helping these communities improve their English skills.

Background to the Teaching Program

While Buddhism is not the most widely practised religion in Nepal, its influence runs deep throughout the country’s history and culture, and Nepal is the birthplace of Buddha. From the numerous temples and stupas scattered across the land to the Tibetan Buddhists who have sought refuge, Nepal holds a significant place in the Buddhist world.

Many young Nepalese men dedicate part of their lives to training as monks. Most of the children in monasteries are either Tibetan refugees or come from disadvantaged ethnic hill tribes. For many, becoming a monk provides the opportunity for a brighter future.

Training as a monk begins at a young age. These young monks learn about Buddhist philosophies and practices while also receiving a general mainstream education, which includes learning English. The ability to speak English is crucial, as it allows monks to translate sacred texts and share the teachings of Buddhism with a wider audience. As the Dalai Lama famously said, “To learn English is to spread the word.”

Providing monks with both formal education and religious training is essential. Many monks leave the monastery as they grow older, and strong English skills significantly enhance their career opportunities in mainstream society.

By volunteering to teach English to monks in Nepal, you can play a key role in their educational journey. Working alongside international volunteers, you’ll help monks improve their communication and pronunciation skills, opening doors to new opportunities and enabling them to share their wisdom with the world.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples​

If you are keen to teach English to monks in Nepal, you will live within the monastery in separate living quarters. The location of your placement during your volunteer in Nepal experience will be at one of the monasteries we support in Kathmandu, Pokhara, or Chitwan. Monasteries in Kathmandu are located across the valley, with some near the city centre and others in more rural, tranquil areas.

Sundarijal Monastery – Situated in the eastern Kathmandu Valley, Sundarijal Monastery is about an hour’s drive from central Kathmandu and is home to around 50 monks. These monks range in age from 6 to over 20, with approximately half aged between 6 and 15. Volunteers here lead educational classes for around three hours each day, working closely with the monks. Beyond teaching, volunteers are encouraged to immerse themselves in the monastery’s daily rituals and join the monks in games, creating a truly enriching cultural exchange.

Kwung Gumba Monastery – Another opportunity for your volunteer work in Nepal is with Kwung Gumba Monastery, located in a small neighbourhood in Kathmandu. This placement offers convenient access to shops and the main town. The monastery has western toilets and intermittent Wi-Fi. Volunteers teaching English to monks in Nepal will work in one of three classrooms surrounding the library, which are equipped with whiteboards and benches. Students are grouped by ability, enabling volunteers to tailor their lessons effectively.

Daunne Monastery – The Daunne Monastery in Chitwan offers a more rural experience, nestled within a jungle environment where monkeys are your neighbours! This Nepal volunteer program provides an authentic setting with basic facilities and limited resources. Volunteers here teach both male and female monks and support a local school that also caters to village children. The school is a short uphill walk into the forest, providing a serene backdrop for a rewarding teaching experience.

Shree Urgen Choling Buddhist Monastery – Located in the picturesque Pokhara region, Shree Urgen Choling Buddhist Monastery offers a unique and flexible experience in a more informal setting. As there is no local teacher, volunteers tutor young monks in the early mornings before accompanying them to a nearby government school. During the day, volunteers can relax by the lakeside or help with general monastery tasks. In the afternoons, volunteers support the children with tutoring and spend evenings engaging in games, singing, and dancing. This immersive role allows volunteers to bond closely with the young monks while experiencing life at the monastery.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day​

As a volunteer teaching English to monks in Nepal, your day will begin early, with the resonating sound of the monastery’s gong calling everyone to morning prayers. This unique start to the day provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the Buddhist way of life.

You will typically have a teaching schedule of two hours per day. With the shorter teaching hours on this program, you’ll find plenty of downtime at the monastery, allowing you to focus on personal activities or explore informal teaching opportunities. These may include conversational English, learning games, or helping the monks with homework and exam preparation. Your volunteer programs abroad run from Monday to Friday. While your main role will be to teach English, there may also be chances to teach other subjects such as Maths or Science.

This volunteer teaching English abroad project follows a flexible curriculum. Most of the time, you will independently plan your lessons or collaborate with fellow volunteers. Government course guidebooks focusing on English, Maths, and Science are often available to help you structure your classes.

In Kathmandu, the monasteries typically host 40 to 150 young monks, depending on the location, while in Chitwan, there are around 100 monks. Their ages range from approximately seven years old to their mid-teens, with class sizes averaging 10 to 15 students. The monks’ proficiency in English varies, so thoughtful lesson planning is essential. Sharing knowledge about your own culture is especially appreciated and helps deepen the learning experience.

During your free time on the Nepal volunteer program, you can explore the local community, visit nearby markets, or learn more about Buddhist traditions. Evenings may include playing games, engaging in sports, or leading extracurricular activities with the young monks.

Depending on your specific Nepal volunteer program, you may also assist with practical tasks like preparing meals or gathering firewood and wild mushrooms from the surrounding jungle. The monks are welcoming and genuinely grateful for your support, eager to share their culture and way of life with you. As a volunteer in Nepal, this experience offers a unique insight into Buddhist practices and traditions rarely available to tourists.

Upon your arrival, the young monks are often eager to meet you, though some may be shy during the first few days. You’ll have the chance to share meals with them and participate in morning meditation rituals (Puja) if you’re up early enough. While the monks won’t be able to formally teach you these practices, they are always open to your proactive involvement, making this a truly enriching and immersive experience.

Peru Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Peru, you will play a vital role in supporting local teachers throughout the city of Cusco. In addition to contributing to the classroom, PMGY’s Peru volunteer programs offer a fantastic opportunity to improve your Spanish. The Peruvian school system provides only a basic level of education and English instruction, which often falls short of what students need. By deciding to teach English in Peru, you can make a meaningful impact and help bridge this gap in education.

Background to the Teaching Program

Peru’s education system lags behind many of its South American neighbours. Much of the curriculum focuses on tradition and history, leaving core subjects like Maths, Science, and communication underdeveloped.

In Peru, three main languages are spoken: Spanish, Quechua, and Aymara. English holds significant importance in many regions, particularly due to the country’s thriving tourism industry. However, educators often face challenges, including inadequate training and overcrowded classrooms, resulting in poor educational outcomes.

Economic disparity also plays a role. Low-income families often require children to work evenings in markets or collecting rubbish, limiting their study time. Conversely, children from higher-income families can access specialised language schools and institutions, gaining greater proficiency in English and opportunities to develop skills in sports, music, and social activities.

In the 1970s, nearly 40% of Peruvians spoke only the indigenous Quechua language, facing social prejudice due to its association with rural labour. Over time, education’s growing importance has led to a decline in Quechua speakers, raising concerns about the loss of cultural tradition.

A strong education enables individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds to travel within Peru, secure roles in tourism and trade, or even take up governmental positions. Recognising this, many families prioritise giving their children the chance to learn English, which opens doors to better prospects.

Alongside academics, Peruvian schools often incorporate sports and hygiene education to prepare students for a well-rounded future. These activities ensure children are ready to contribute effectively to society when they enter the workforce.

To address these educational gaps, PMGY has partnered with local primary and secondary schools to expand English learning opportunities. In Peru, children typically begin learning English at age 12 when they start secondary school. However, early exposure to English through volunteers significantly enhances their learning potential and future opportunities.

Volunteer opportunities with PMGY provide a platform to make a meaningful impact when you teach English in Peru. By working at our volunteer teaching English abroad projects, your energy, enthusiasm, and creativity will inspire students. Having a fluent English speaker in their classroom can be transformative for these children.

As a volunteer teaching English in Peru, your dedication and skills will play a vital role in improving educational outcomes. If you’re looking for additional options, PMGY also offers a variety of animal conservation volunteering projects in Peru to complement your experience.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

The Colegio Francisco Sirvichi – Colegio Francisco Sirvichi operates as a primary school with separate morning and afternoon programs. The morning program caters to girls aged 6-11, while the afternoon program is co-educational, creating a more interactive environment for the same age group. Each class typically has 30-40 students, and volunteer support is invaluable to the local staff.

Instructors include one to three general education teachers and one English teacher who handles both the morning and afternoon shifts. Due to limited assistance and teaching resources, English lessons often fall short of their potential. As a volunteer, you’ll support teachers by supervising students, assisting with English pronunciation, correcting exams, and helping with lesson planning.

The school also incorporates sports into the curriculum to ease the burden on overcrowded English classes. Sports activities take place in a local field and are part of the regular schedule. Volunteers are welcome to assist by supervising, facilitating exercises, and introducing new activities.

The schedule at Colegio Francisco Sirvichi is divided into two shifts: mornings from 8am-1pm and afternoons from 1pm-6pm. Flexibility is essential for volunteers teaching English in Peru at this school.

The Colibri Afterschool Program – The Colibri Afterschool Program was developed by the Cusco Police Department to support working parents and provide children with a brighter future. This program helps children aged 5-15 who either work on the streets or have parents working late hours. It aims to equip them with skills and education that improve their self-sufficiency and prospects.

The Police Department organises recreational activities like painting, dancing, and drawing. When volunteers are present, they are encouraged to lead activities based on their skills and interests. Volunteers also help with teaching English, assisting with homework, and organising engaging lessons or creative workshops.

Many children in the program have experienced domestic violence or abuse, so patient, positive, and energetic volunteers are vital to creating a nurturing environment. This project is especially rewarding for long-term volunteers who can form deeper connections with the children.

The program operates on weekdays from 2pm-6pm, with attendance ranging from 15 to 45 children each day. As a volunteer in Peru, you are encouraged to provide motivation, support, and creativity to make a lasting impact at the Colibri project.

Colegio San Francisco de Borja – Founded nearly 400 years ago, Colegio San Francisco de Borja is a historic public school located just two blocks from Cusco’s main square. Once exclusive to Inca royalty and the early educational ground of Tupac Amaru, the school now serves 670 primary and 720 secondary students across 11 grades.

Volunteers work alongside English teachers in the afternoons, primarily with students aged 12-17. While the schedule typically runs from 1pm-6pm Monday to Friday, flexibility is key as it may change based on class timings.

Your role as a volunteer teaching English in Peru includes assisting with grammar and pronunciation exercises, preparing lessons, and helping to create an engaging learning environment. You’ll also design creative activities to enhance language skills, evaluate quizzes and exams, and provide constructive feedback to support students’ progress. Through your contributions, you’ll help students gain confidence in English, fostering a love for learning while enriching their educational experience.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a participant in volunteer work in Peru, you will play a key role in supporting local teachers during their class schedules. This includes assisting with lesson preparation, tutoring students, and engaging with them during class breaks. While volunteers often work as teacher assistants, there may also be opportunities to lead classroom activities.

The teaching program operates during both morning and afternoon shifts. Before your arrival in Cusco, the local team will email you detailed information about your specific project, assigned tasks, and working hours. Your commitment to the project will typically run Monday to Friday, with 3-5 hours of work per day.

For those who enjoy a scenic stroll, reaching your English teaching placement can involve a pleasant 45-minute walk through the heart of Cusco. Alternatively, you can opt for a 30-minute bus ride to your project site. Bus stops are conveniently located near the host family or the Spanish school. The local team will guide you in navigating the routes to and from your placement, ensuring you are comfortable and familiar with the journey.

South Africa Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in South Africa, you will play a key role in enhancing the English skills of local children. As their proficiency grows, so do their future opportunities. PMGY’s South Africa volunteer programs give you the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young learners in Cape Town. Teach English in South Africa, along with other subjects, to underprivileged children attending government schools – all against the backdrop of vibrant and cosmopolitan Cape Town.

Background to the Teaching Program

South Africa is a vibrant nation with 11 official languages and immense potential. The future of this great country heavily relies on its youth. While significant strides have been made since the end of apartheid to create an inclusive and comprehensive education system, the quality of education remains uneven, often depending on a child’s location and family wealth.

Children from high-income families benefit from private schools and language-focused institutions, offering direct pathways to the best jobs in South Africa. Conversely, children from disadvantaged communities face many challenges, often receiving insufficient education to prepare them for the future. Cape Town, an emerging hub, has seen a growing influx of refugees, placing additional pressure on already under-resourced and overcrowded government schools, where classrooms often hold 40+ students per teacher.

Many of the children attending these public schools come from broken homes, where criminality and illiteracy are common. As a result, many become disengaged with formal education. Unfortunately, the schools lack the resources and staff to address these challenges, offering few recreational activities to re-engage less enthusiastic learners.

PMGY South Africa works with primary schools in and around Cape Town, a popular tourist destination. These schools cater to children aged 6-13, focusing on core subjects such as maths, art, science, and, most importantly, English. Class sizes range from 15 to 40 pupils, with children aged approximately 5-12 years old.

As a volunteer teaching English in South Africa, you will assist with lesson planning, one-on-one student support, and leading classroom activities. You may also substitute for the main teacher, conduct physical education lessons, handle administrative duties, and support fundraising initiatives or school events.

PMGY’s volunteer teaching English abroad programs in South Africa offer a platform to make a meaningful difference. Your energy, creativity, and enthusiasm will be essential in helping students improve their English skills, providing them with brighter prospects for the future. By donating your time and skills effectively, you will maximise your impact on the local community. If you’re looking for motivation to embark on a gap year volunteering experience, South Africa offers a rewarding opportunity to teach, inspire, and contribute to the development of young learners.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

Chapel Street Primary School – Chapel Street Primary is home to approximately 800 students, most of whom come from underprivileged communities. Many of these children live in Cape Town’s townships, which are heavily disadvantaged. As a result, classrooms are often overcrowded, and resources are scarce.

With only 24 staff members, the teacher-to-student ratio ranges from 1:30 to 1:40. Despite these challenges, the dedicated teaching staff strive to overcome the economic and social hardships their students face by prioritising education and utilising technology as a tool for learning.

The school caters to children aged 6-13, and as you teach English in South Africa, your primary role will be to assist local teachers in the classroom. You will also have opportunities to lead lessons and support physical education, including sports activities. Additionally, you may help with swimming lessons and art classes. PMGY volunteers play a crucial role in alleviating the workload of overburdened teachers while building meaningful connections with the students.

St. Paul’s Primary School – Situated in the vibrant and historic Cape Malay community of Bo-Kaap, St. Paul’s Primary School is surrounded by colourful houses and steep cobblestone streets. Although it is located within walking distance of Cape Town’s city centre, the majority of its students come from the townships – some of the city’s most economically disadvantaged areas. These communities often face significant challenges, including substance abuse and high crime rates, making schools like St. Paul’s a vital safe haven for children.

Volunteers at St. Paul’s are typically placed in lower grades, working with children aged 6-8. The primary focus in these classrooms is on language, basic maths, art, music, and physical education. You will primarily act as a teaching assistant as you teach English in South Africa. Your responsibilities will include tasks such as coordinating reading groups, assisting with administrative duties, and providing one-on-one support to students who need extra help. On occasion, you may be invited to lead a class or assist in older year groups, further enhancing your teaching experience.

Volunteering at these schools offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of children while gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by educators and learners in South Africa.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in South Africa, you will provide invaluable support in the classroom, helping to ease the workload on local staff. Your presence as a volunteer in South Africa also contributes to better discipline and improved class productivity. For students facing challenges, such as learning difficulties or behavioural issues, the individual attention from international volunteers can make a significant difference.

In most cases, you will work as a teaching assistant. However, there may be occasions when you are asked to lead a class independently. This is a common occurrence during volunteer work in South Africa, so it’s important to come prepared with lesson plans. Spending time planning and organising your lessons in advance will help you make the most of your time on the project.

Your typical working hours are from 7:45am to 2:30pm, Monday to Friday, with a break for lunch. If you wish to take on additional duties or extend your working hours, this can be arranged upon request. Volunteers are encouraged to dedicate at least one hour each day to planning activities and lessons for the following day. Weekends are free for you to relax, explore Cape Town, or participate in local activities.

You will need to travel to your English teaching project each day, typically by Uber, though some placements may be within walking distance of the Volunteer House. The average journey takes around 30 minutes. Our local team will provide clear guidance on how to reach your placement and will pair you with another volunteer who is already familiar with the location, ensuring you settle into your role smoothly.

Sri Lanka Teaching Volunteers

Volunteer to teach English in Sri Lanka and give young people new skills that can support their future opportunities. English is a powerful skill, especially for improving career prospects and achieving long-term goals. Most importantly, interacting with fluent English speakers inspires students to build their confidence and develop this essential language ability. If you’re full of enthusiasm and positive energy, this project is perfect for you!

Background to the Teaching Program

Sri Lanka’s education system is remarkable for a developing country of its size, offering universal public education from ages 6 to 18. However, government schools, especially in rural areas, often operate with minimal funding despite serving large communities. The facilities in these schools are basic, and classrooms are frequently overcrowded, with average class sizes ranging from 40 to 60 children.

The importance of speaking English in Sri Lanka is growing rapidly. Tourism and migrant work in the Middle East are two major sources of income for the country, both of which require proficiency in English, the world’s global language. Unfortunately, English teaching in government schools is limited. Teachers often lack strong English skills, and class sizes make it difficult to provide effective instruction. Only children from middle- and upper-class families can typically afford private English lessons.

Children in Sri Lanka attend government schools in the mornings, but many cannot afford the tuition needed for additional classes that go beyond basic education. These extra lessons are crucial for excelling at school, especially in subjects like English. In government schools, time dedicated to learning English is minimal, and teaching methods are often “parrot style,” where students memorise textbook passages without understanding their meaning. For families with limited income, paying for these essential tuition classes is simply not an option.

As a result, children from low-income families often speak little to no English. The goal of the volunteer teaching English abroad program is to bridge this gap by providing underprivileged children in Ambalangoda with the same opportunities as their wealthier peers. By volunteering to teach English in Sri Lanka, you can help these children improve their English skills and boost their future career prospects. Additionally, if you’re passionate about animals, there are also a variety of volunteering abroad with animals opportunities in Sri Lanka to explore.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

A volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka will work at one of the designated locations where free English lessons are provided. Most importantly, you’ll support the local village communities through our after-school education program. Additionally, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to teach English in Sri Lanka to young Buddhist monks.

Community Village School Projects – These English teaching projects form the core of PMGY’s after-school education program, which has been running since 2013. As the main initiative for a volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka, it focuses on providing free language lessons to children in villages across the Ambalangoda district, particularly those from lower-income families.

The aim is to help improve the children’s English skills by offering free after-school lessons in the afternoons. These sessions typically take place in makeshift classrooms or community centres within the villages. On this English teaching program, students are grouped by their level of English. Class sizes range from 4-15 children, and you may teach students aged 6-18, depending on current project needs. A local team member will always be available to support you while you volunteer in Sri Lanka.

Volunteers participating in medical or wildlife projects in the mornings are encouraged to assist with the afternoon village school projects at no extra cost. Transport to the project site will be arranged, and you’ll collaborate with other teaching volunteers to improve learning outcomes for the children. Having more teaching volunteers allows for better lesson planning and structured learning that can be tracked over time.

Temple Schools – Every volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka also has the option to join our Temple School project. This opportunity can be added to the core afternoon community village school project. The Temple School project operates in the morning, offering the chance to teach English to novice Buddhist monks.

Many of the Buddhist monks have minimal English skills, and the temple schools often welcome disadvantaged children from the local community to join these sessions as well. Class sizes are typically small, with 5-10 students aged 6-18 years. The project runs for approximately 1.5 hours each morning, allowing you to contribute without conflicting with your afternoon commitments.

Participation in the temple schools is optional, while the afternoon school project remains mandatory for all teaching volunteers. This is because the afternoon village school project serves as the core focus of our teaching program, whereas the temple schools may operate on a more ad hoc basis.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in Sri Lanka, your main role is to share your time, knowledge, and skills to help local communities in Ambalangoda. By teaching conversational English, you’ll boost their confidence and help unlock their full potential.

The after-school education Sri Lanka volunteer program runs from Monday to Friday, 3pm-5.30pm. You’ll travel to the project site via tuk-tuk or minibus, which typically takes around 10 minutes. The first part of the session focuses on teaching English, while the last hour is reserved for games and activities. Volunteers are encouraged to make lessons as interactive and engaging as possible. Incorporate fun educational tools such as interactive word searches, Hangman, team quizzes, or games like Hot Seat. Songs, art, sport, and music are also excellent ways to keep children excited about learning. Resources and syllabus guidance are available at the Volunteer House to help you plan activities before heading to the project.

As an international volunteer, your presence provides students with a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures and gain a global perspective. By sharing your creativity and knowledge, you’ll inspire these eager learners to reach their full potential. Each volunteer in Sri Lanka will lead their own classes and have the freedom to design a lesson plan. If you need inspiration, you can follow pre-existing topics or curriculum materials. Depending on the number of volunteers and current needs, you may teach individually, in pairs, or in small groups. Typically, three to six classes are conducted in each community.

A local coordinator will be available daily to assist you and provide support. However, the local staff will not lead the class, so volunteers are encouraged to avoid over-reliance on coordinators for translation. To ensure your sessions are effective, you’ll have dedicated planning sessions once a week with the teaching coordinator. We also recommend spending at least 30 minutes each day preparing your lessons.

For those teaching at temple schools, classes run from 8:30am to 10am, Monday to Friday. The project site is a short five-minute tuk-tuk journey. Lessons at the temple focus on calm, structured learning and exclude active or loud games. You’ll often find the monks eager to share insights about their religion and way of life in return for your contribution.

By taking part in this program, you’ll make a meaningful difference in the lives of Sri Lankan children and Buddhist monks, creating memories and experiences that will stay with you forever.

Tanzania Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Tanzania, you’ll play a key role in helping students build a skill that can shape their future success. Interacting with fluent, native English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are vital for future job opportunities. This project offers an incredible chance for international volunteers to teach English in Tanzania, fostering meaningful connections and making a lasting impact. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop your leadership skills while enriching the lives of disadvantaged children in Arusha.

Background to the Teaching Program

At the start of this century, the Tanzanian government made a significant push to enrol all children in education. This was largely achieved by reducing primary school education fees nationwide. As a result, approximately 96% of primary-school-age children are now attending school. However, this progress has come with challenges: the average primary school class now has around 53 pupils per teacher, and in rural areas, this ratio is even higher. Additionally, international aid to the education sector has decreased since the global recession, raising concerns about the overall quality of education in Tanzania.

Teaching methods in Tanzania often rely on repetition, aimed solely at passing exams. While students can memorise information, they often lack real understanding, especially when it comes to learning English. This becomes a significant issue as most secondary school classes are taught in English. By improving teaching methods, volunteers can help lay the foundation for better comprehension and learning potential, ultimately enhancing students’ employability in the future.

More than one-third of Tanzanians live below the national poverty line, making education a vital pathway to brighter futures. Tourism is a major industry in Tanzania, and the ability to speak English greatly increases young people’s chances of securing meaningful employment in this sector.

PMGY’s volunteer teaching English abroad program in Tanzania supports local schools and childcare centres to maximise their impact. As a teaching volunteer in Tanzania, you will teach English, Maths, and other subjects, while transferring valuable skills and sharing cultural perspectives. No previous teaching experience is required—just creativity and enthusiasm! Our team will help you settle into your role, ensuring you make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience yourself.

We primarily support primary schools, but volunteering at secondary schools can be arranged upon request. Additionally, many of the childcare projects we work with include nursery schools for preschool-age children, where volunteers can also assist and teach English in Tanzania.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

Good Hope School – Located in the Ngusero Region of Arusha, an area known for being disadvantaged and having limited educational opportunities, Good Hope School was founded in 2005 and now accommodates over 1,000 students. The school includes a nursery for children aged 3–5 and a primary school where the main teaching placements occur with students aged 6–14. The school is conveniently located about 15 minutes from both the Volunteer House and the centre of Arusha.

High View School – Situated in the Mbauda Region of Arusha, around 20 minutes from the Volunteer House, High View School was also established in 2005 to provide affordable, high-quality education to the local community. The school features a nursery for children aged 3–5 and a primary school where most teaching placements take place with students aged 6–14. On average, over 300 children attend this school and daycare.

As a volunteer in Tanzania, you’ll need to approach your role with creativity and proactivity to ensure your classes are both engaging and productive. Your contribution will be invaluable in supporting local teachers and enhancing the students’ learning experience. Many of the students will benefit significantly from having a fluent English speaker teaching them in Tanzania, helping to improve their language skills and future opportunities.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in Tanzania, you’ll be expected to plan and lead lessons. While volunteers sometimes assist local staff and English teachers, there is generally an expectation for international volunteers to take the lead in most lessons. To teach English in Tanzania successfully, you’ll need to be creative, proactive, and prepared to use your initiative. At times, you may also work as an assistant to local teachers.

All lessons are taught in English, except for Swahili language classes. Schools follow a basic curriculum, but volunteers are encouraged to introduce new ideas and topics. Spending an hour or two each day preparing for the next day’s lessons is key to ensuring smooth and effective teaching.

While each volunteer abroad program in Tanzania may vary slightly, typical working hours are 8:30am–1pm, Monday to Friday. Volunteers usually spend 3–4 hours teaching basic English, with the rest of the time dedicated to assisting with mealtimes and organising activities. If you wish to stay longer at the project, you are generally welcome to do so.

Staff shortages are common in the under-resourced schools where we work, so flexibility and adaptability are essential. If you’re new to teaching, your confidence will grow quickly after teaching a few classes. Planning your lessons thoroughly will make running classes much easier and more enjoyable.

Transport to your project is not included in the Program Fee. The majority of projects are within walking distance from the Volunteer House, but some are further afield. In these latter cases, you can take a local bus (dala dala) or a tuk-tuk to your placement, with travel times of up to 45 minutes for your volunteer work in Tanzania. During your orientation, the local team will guide you through the transport system and provide advice on costs. If you’re ever unsure about fares, they’ll be happy to assist.

Vietnam Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Vietnam with PMGY, you’ll inspire students to build essential skills for achieving their future aspirations. Engaging with fluent, native English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are vital for future job opportunities. This rewarding project offers international volunteers the chance to teach English in Vietnam, applying their leadership skills in schools and communities across Hanoi.

Background to the Teaching Program

Education is increasingly becoming a priority in Vietnam. Traditionally, agriculture was the main source of employment, but this sector has seen a significant decline. Today, Vietnam’s economy is largely driven by international trade, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This economic shift has created a growing demand for a skilled, multilingual workforce, with English often being the primary language required.

In recent years, access to primary and secondary education has greatly improved, with schools receiving increased funding. The education system now places a stronger emphasis on physical, psychological, social, and emotional growth alongside academic achievement. Recognising the importance of English, the government introduced English language training into the national curriculum in 2010.

PMGY collaborates with a variety of educational establishments, including government high schools, universities, and community education classes. The aim for every childcare volunteer in Vietnam and teaching participant is to create an engaging environment that encourages students to practice English and build confidence. Volunteers are encouraged to keep lessons fun and creative, making the learning process enjoyable and effective for students.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

Community & University Classes – In addition to working with schools in Hanoi, volunteers in Vietnam also contribute to community classes held within local neighbourhoods and nearby universities. These classes cater to four different proficiency levels, with each group attending two sessions per week. Volunteers typically lead two classes per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Each session is split into two parts: the first hour focuses on teaching and understanding English vocabulary and phrases, while the second hour emphasises practising these skills in interactive ways.

The community classes are attended by high school and university students who are eager to improve their English skills but cannot afford private tuition. Many students come from rural areas and move to the city for their education. The primary goal of these classes is to create a lively, engaging environment where students can practise speaking English confidently. Class sizes generally range from 5 to 20 participants, making it a rewarding and personal experience for both students and volunteers.

High Schools – One of the main schools supported by this program is the Nguyen Tat Thanh (NTT) project, a secondary school with over 2,500 students aged 11-18. English language proficiency is becoming increasingly important at NTT. However, local teachers often focus on listening, reading, and writing skills due to their own limitations in spoken English.

Despite being relatively well-resourced, the school struggles to hire enough native English-speaking staff. Large class sizes make it challenging for teachers to provide students with the individual attention they need. As a volunteer teaching English in Vietnam, you will play a crucial role in helping students improve their communication skills and confidence. Additionally, volunteers may assist with sports classes such as badminton, basketball, football, and volleyball. Those willing can also dedicate time to helping the teaching staff enhance their own English skills, contributing to the school’s long-term development goals.

Circus and Vaudeville College – Established in 1961, the Vietnam Circus and Variety Arts College is a hub for nurturing and developing both modern and traditional circus performances. As the only professional training institution for circus performers in South East Asia, the college trains students aged 12-17 in a variety of skills while also preserving cultural heritage.

Supported by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, the college has trained numerous performers and contributed to the growth of circus troupes across the region. Students balance rigorous performance training with academic studies, often travelling internationally for competitions and performances.

Improving English proficiency is particularly valuable for these students, as it helps them navigate global opportunities. A volunteer teaching English in Vietnam will assist in developing students’ communication skills through interactive tasks and engaging lessons. Preparing lesson plans and materials beforehand is key to delivering successful sessions. Volunteers are encouraged to lead class activities that improve speaking and listening skills, fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.

Students at the college are always eager to learn from international participants, making this a highly rewarding experience. Volunteers are supported by local team members who assist with classroom management, ensuring lessons run smoothly and effectively.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in Vietnam, you will take charge of preparing and leading your own activities during lessons. Depending on your placement, you may be required to follow an existing curriculum. Effective communication with local teachers and staff is essential to ensure they can support your lesson plans and activities.

On this Vietnam volunteer program, you’ll need to be proactive in leading lessons and engaging with students. Our local team will provide guidance as you plan your classes, offering insights into what past volunteers have taught and what topics interest the students. They will also suggest activities to help you deliver dynamic and enjoyable lessons. No prior teaching experience is necessary to teach English in Vietnam, as long as you are enthusiastic, adaptable, and committed. To optimise learning, the local team aims to group students by their English ability, enhancing the structure and productivity of the lessons.

Each project varies, but a typical schedule for a volunteer teaching English abroad runs from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Thursday. In school placements, volunteers may teach up to four classes each day, with two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Each class lasts about 45 minutes, with a 10-minute break between consecutive lessons, and lunch is taken between sessions. Some classes may have as many as 50 students, so confidence, creativity, and flexibility are invaluable.

For university and community classes, the structure is slightly different. Volunteers who teach English in Vietnam usually lead two classes each day, with one in the morning and another in the afternoon. Each class lasts 2 hours, making a total of 4 teaching hours per day. Volunteers generally work from 9am to 4pm, with a longer lunch break. Each week on the volunteer abroad programs, you will teach four different classes, giving you plenty of opportunities to engage with diverse groups.

Local transport to and from your placement is included in your Program Fee. Most projects are within an hour’s commute from the Volunteer House. Volunteers will either receive a bus pass or be reimbursed for their travel expenses weekly. The bus station is about a 10-minute walk from the Volunteer House. On your first day, a member of the local team will accompany you to introduce you to your placement, and a coordinator will continue to assist you throughout your program.

Zanzibar Teaching Volunteers

As a volunteer teaching English in Zanzibar, you’ll play a key role in helping students build a skill that can shape their future success. Interacting with fluent, native English speakers significantly enhances their language abilities, which are vital for future job opportunities. This project offers an incredible chance for international volunteers to teach English in Zanzibar, fostering meaningful connections and making a lasting impact. You’ll also have the opportunity to develop your leadership skills while enriching the lives of disadvantaged children in Paje.

Background to the Teaching Program

At the start of this century, the Tanzanian and Zanzibar government made a significant push to enrol all children in education. This was largely achieved by reducing primary school education fees nationwide. As a result, approximately 96% of primary-school-age children are now attending school. However, this progress has come with challenges: the average primary school class now has around 53 pupils per teacher, and in rural areas, this ratio is even higher. Additionally, international aid to the education sector has decreased since the global recession, raising concerns about the overall quality of education in Tanzania, and even more so in Zanzibar.

Teaching methods in Zanzibar often rely on repetition, aimed solely at passing exams. While students can memorise information, they often lack real understanding, especially when it comes to learning English. This becomes a significant issue as most secondary school classes are taught in English. By improving teaching methods, volunteers can help lay the foundation for better comprehension and learning potential, ultimately enhancing students’ employability in the future.

More than a quarter of the population of Zanzibar live below the national poverty line, making education a vital pathway to brighter futures. Tourism is a major up and coming industry in Zanzibar, and the ability to speak English greatly increases young people’s chances of securing meaningful employment in this sector.

PMGY’s volunteer teaching English abroad program in Zanzibar supports local schools and childcare centres to maximise their impact. As a teaching volunteer in Zanzibar, you will teach English, Maths, and other subjects, while transferring valuable skills and sharing cultural perspectives. No previous teaching experience is required — just creativity and enthusiasm! Our team will help you settle into your role, ensuring you make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable experience yourself.

We primarily support primary schools, but volunteering at secondary schools can be arranged upon request. Additionally, many of the childcare projects we work with include nursery schools for preschool-age children, where volunteers can also assist and teach English in Zanzibar.

Teaching Volunteer Placement Examples

Paje Primary School – Located just a short walk from the volunteer house, Paje Primary School educates around 120 students aged 8–14. Students follow the national curriculum and are grouped by age, with volunteers providing additional English lessons. This extra support enhances students’ education and helps prepare them for future roles in the tourism industry. The school was founded in 2019 and continues to grow with the support of volunteers and partner organisations.

Pendo High School – Originally established as a high school for students aged 12 and above, Pendo High School has since expanded to include multiple departments, allowing students to enrol from kindergarten through to graduation. Students benefit greatly from learning English with volunteers from a young age and continuing this instruction throughout their education. This consistent exposure helps build strong language skills and confidence, opening doors to employment opportunities in tourism and beyond.

As a volunteer in Zanzibar, you’ll need to approach your role with an open mind and creativity, particularly when planning lessons that engage and motivate students to develop their English skills. Your contribution will be invaluable in supporting local teachers and enriching students’ learning experiences.

Many students benefit significantly from learning with fluent English speakers, improving both their language ability and future opportunities. Volunteers considering a career in teaching will also gain valuable skills and practical experience, helping them stand out in a competitive job market.

Your Volunteer Role & Typical Teaching Day

As a volunteer teaching English in Zanzibar, you’ll be expected to plan and lead lessons. While volunteers sometimes assist local staff and English teachers, there is generally an expectation for international volunteers to take the lead in most lessons. To teach English in Zanzibar successfully, you’ll need to be creative, proactive, and prepared to use your initiative. At times, you may also work as an assistant to local teachers.

All lessons are taught in English, except for Swahili language classes. Schools follow a basic curriculum, but volunteers are encouraged to introduce new ideas and topics. Spending an hour or two each day preparing for the next day’s lessons is key to ensuring smooth and effective teaching.

While each volunteer abroad program in Zanzibar may vary slightly, typical working hours are 8:30am–1pm, Monday to Friday. Volunteers usually spend 3–4 hours teaching basic English, with the rest of the time dedicated to assisting with mealtimes and organising activities. If you wish to stay longer at the project, you are generally welcome to do so.

Staff shortages are common in the under-resourced schools where we work, so flexibility and adaptability are essential. If you’re new to teaching, your confidence will grow quickly after teaching a few classes. Planning your lessons thoroughly will make running classes much easier and more enjoyable.

Transport to the teaching project is not included in the Program Fee. While some schools are within walking distance from the Volunteer House, others require a commute. For these projects, you’ll take a tuk tuk, which can be arranged through the local team, with travel times of up to 25 minutes to your volunteer work. During your orientation, the local team will guide you on how to navigate the local transport system if you prefer and provide advice on journey costs. If you’re ever unsure about fares or routes, they’ll always be there to help.

Flights

After confirming your place on a PMGY volunteer program, we strongly advise that you book your flights as early as possible. This will help ensure that you get the lowest airfare. You can choose to book your flights independently or we can help you with arranging them.

Your arrival airport and date are dependent on the specific destination you are joining us in:

🇮🇩 Tabanan – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Bali volunteer program, you should book your flights to Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport on the Sunday start date. The airport code is DPS. Volunteers in Bali can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇰🇭 Bakod Village – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Cambodia volunteer program, you should book your flights to Techo International Airport on the Monday start date. The airport code is KTI. Volunteers in Cambodia can arrive at any time up to 9.15pm on their designated Monday start date.

🇨🇷 Coronado – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Costa Rica volunteer program, you should book your flights to Juan Santamaria International Airport in San Jose on the Sunday start date. The airport code is SJO. Volunteers in Costa Rica can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇪🇨 Quito – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Ecuador volunteer program, you should book your flights to Mariscal Sucre International Airport in Quito on the Sunday start date. The airport code is UIO. Volunteers in Ecuador can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇬🇭 Accra – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Ghana volunteer program, you should book your flights to Kotoka International Airport on the Sunday start date. The airport code is ACC. Volunteers in Ghana can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇮🇳 Faridabad – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our India volunteer program, you should book your flights to Indira Gandhi International Airport on the Sunday start date. The airport code is DEL. Volunteers in India can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇳🇵 Kathmandu, Chitwan & Pokhara – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Nepal volunteer programs, you should book your flights to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu on the Sunday start date. The airport code is KTM. Volunteers in Nepal can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇵🇪 Cusco – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Peru volunteer program, you should book your flights to Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport on the Sunday start date. The airport code is CUZ. Volunteers in Peru can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇿🇦 Cape Town – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our South Africa volunteer program, you should book your flights to Cape Town International Airport on the Sunday start date. The airport code is CPT. Volunteers in South Africa can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday start date.

🇱🇰 Ambalangoda – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Sri Lanka volunteer program, you should book your flights to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo on the Saturday start date. The airport code is CMB. Most volunteers can arrive at any time on their designated Saturday start date.

🇹🇿 Arusha OR Zanzibar  – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Tanzania volunteer program, you should book your flights to Kilimanjaro International Airport or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport on the Sunday start date. The airport code is JRO for Kilimanjaro and ZNZ for Zanzibar. Volunteers in Tanzania can arrive at any time on their designated Sunday program start date.

🇻🇳 Hanoi – To join the volunteer teaching English abroad project on our Vietnam volunteer programs, you should book your flights to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on the Wednesday start date. The airport code is HAN. Volunteers in Hanoi can arrive at any time on their designated Wednesday start date.

Travel Insurance

Importantly, having an appropriate travel insurance policy during your time abroad is essential. Therefore, it is mandatory for all of our international volunteers to be appropriately covered across all of their trip dates. This includes your travel to and from the host country, as well as any onward travel. Although PMGY does everything to ensure your trip is safe, inevitably things can go wrong. Therefore, having a travel insurance policy in place helps you effectively deal with any problems you may encounter during your time away.

We have partnered up with Howden Insurance to create an affordable and comprehensive optional policy. This has been designed with our international volunteers in mind, to cover our participants for all of their travel essentials. The policy is available to anyone across the globe, up to the age of 65 years. The document will cover you for your time on any PMGY destination. You can purchase PMGY Travel Insurance during your online application or you can contact us directly to arrange it.

Our International Team works tirelessly to provide extensive support leading up to your trip. From our online chat service to email support and telephone conversations, we’re always ready to assist. All international volunteers with PMGY receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which serves as your ultimate guide for planning your volunteer trip abroad. This detailed handbook includes everything from visa guidance to suggested packing lists, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your adventure.

We also have dedicated Facebook groups for each of our volunteer destinations. These groups are a fantastic resource where you can connect with our international and local teams, as well as past, present, and future volunteers. They provide a valuable platform for sharing experiences, asking questions, and staying updated with community news year after year.

Sometimes, it’s hard to imagine yourself volunteering abroad without having been there yet. To help manage expectations and give you a clear picture of what to expect, we offer a variety of engaging and informative videos on our PMGY YouTube Channel. These clips offer a visual insight into life as a PMGY volunteer. In addition, don’t miss our webinars, which run on selected Tuesdays at 4pm UK time. Our International Team provides invaluable advice in these sessions, tailored to help you prepare for your trip.

Each webinar is designed with a specific focus. Our Pre-Departure Webinar covers all the essentials you need to know before joining us abroad. The Program Preparation Webinar is project-specific, offering detailed advice and insights about your placement. Finally, our Safety Webinar provides top tips for managing your safety and wellbeing while volunteering abroad. For those simply curious about PMGY, we also run an Introductory Webinar. This session introduces our organisation, background, goals, and the volunteer opportunities we offer overseas.

🇮🇩 Tabanan – Our Bali volunteer program is based in Tabanan, approximately 1.5 hours from Ngurah Rai (Denpasar) International Airport. Tabanan is the capital town of Bali’s ‘rice bowl’ regency, known for its stunning green landscapes and rolling hills. The regency spans Central and Western Bali and is home to Mount Batukaru, Bali’s second-highest peak at 2,276 metres. Tabanan town itself is a commercial hub, offering essential amenities such as banks, hospitals, and shops, but it has a distinctly local feel, untouched by tourist crowds.

🇰🇭 Bakod Village – Our Cambodia volunteer program is located in the picturesque rural village of Bakod, just two hours from Phnom Penh Airport. This traditional village, nestled in Takeo province, provides an authentic and peaceful experience, far from busy tourist trails. However, volunteers can still access popular backpacker destinations on weekends. Bakod is situated 7km from Takeo’s centre and borders provinces such as Kampot, Kampong Speu, and Kandal, while its southern boundary meets Vietnam.

🇨🇷 Coronado – Our Costa Rica volunteer program is based in Coronado, a lively suburb of San Jose with a population of nearly 60,000. Coronado offers a unique mix of urban conveniences and natural beauty, being located just 10km from Costa Rica’s capital. Set at the foot of Braulio Carrillo National Park, this area is a gateway to incredible biodiversity and city adventures.

🇪🇨 Quito – Our Ecuador volunteer program is based in Quito, the highest official capital in the world at 2,850 metres above sea level. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a haven for history, culture, and breathtaking views. Set among the Andes Mountains, Quito’s unique charm makes it an unforgettable base for volunteers in Ecuador.

🇬🇭 Accra – Our Ghana volunteer program is based in Accra, Ghana’s largest city. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Accra blends bustling city life with serene rural surroundings. The area’s coastal location and cultural landmarks offer volunteers an enriching and rewarding experience.

🇮🇳 Faridabad – Our India volunteer program is based in Faridabad, part of the New Delhi region in North India. Faridabad offers the perfect balance between vibrant city life and a quieter, more relaxed setting. The city features temples, local parks, bustling markets, shopping malls, and cinemas where you can enjoy a Bollywood flick. Volunteers love the balance of culture and modern comforts available here.

🇳🇵 Kathmandu, Chitwan & Pokhara – Our Nepal volunteer program spans three unique locations: Kathmandu, Chitwan, and Pokhara. Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital, is a bustling metropolis rich in cultural heritage and history, filled with temples, palaces, and courtyards. Pokhara, 200km west of the capital, offers serene lakes and stunning mountain vistas, while Chitwan’s fertile Terai region near the Indian border provides a refreshing contrast to the Himalayan terrain.

🇵🇪 Cusco – Our Peru volunteer program is based in Cusco, the historic capital of the Incan Empire. Situated at 3,400 metres above sea level, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a rich blend of culture and history. As the gateway to Machu Picchu, Cusco provides volunteers with the chance to explore the origins of the Quechua people while being immersed in Peru’s vibrant culture.

🇿🇦 Cape Town – Our South Africa volunteer program is set in Cape Town, a city known for its stark contrasts and cultural diversity. From the bustling city centre with its vibrant nightlife to the challenging realities of the Townships and Cape Flats, Cape Town offers a truly eye-opening experience.

🇱🇰 Ambalangoda – Our Sri Lanka volunteer program is based in Ambalangoda, a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast, just 2.5 hours from Colombo Airport. Known for its fishing heritage and unique demonic wooden masks, Ambalangoda offers a fascinating cultural experience for volunteers.

🇹🇿 Arusha – Our Tanzania volunteer program is based in Arusha, nestled in the Kilimanjaro region. Set against the dramatic backdrop of Mount Meru, Arusha combines natural beauty with a lively atmosphere, making it an unforgettable destination.

🇻🇳 Hanoi – Our Vietnam volunteer program is based in Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, just 30 minutes from Noi Bai Airport. Hanoi offers a rich cultural experience with its vibrant markets and historic landmarks, all while maintaining a distinctly local charm.

🇹🇿 Zanzibar – Our Zanzibar volunteer program is based on the island of Zanzibar, in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar blends rich history with island charm. With palm lined beaches, turquoise seas, and the cultural heart of Stone Town, it offers a relaxed yet character filled setting that leaves a lasting impression.

PMGY’s teaching abroad volunteer programs are delivered by our dedicated and highly experienced in-country local teams. Every team member is fully vetted by our International Team, ensuring that your experience is both safe and rewarding. Our local community network provides the structure and support you need to make the most of your time on a teaching abroad volunteer program. From arranging your accommodation and meals to coordinating airport pick-up, in-country orientation, and 24/7 emergency support, our team ensures that every detail is covered, leaving you free to focus on making a difference as a volunteer teacher.

When you arrive for your chosen volunteer teaching English abroad program, you’ll be welcomed with a detailed orientation provided by our friendly in-country team.

The orientation day is typically divided into two parts:

Theoretical Overview: The first part of the day focuses on key information to help you settle in, including cultural ‘dos and don’ts,’ safety advice, an overview of your project, and team introductions. This session ensures you feel confident and well-prepared before starting your placement.

Practical Introduction: The second part introduces you to your local area. The team will guide you to essential locations such as shops, ATMs, and transport hubs. They will also assist with practicalities such as arranging money exchange and securing a local SIM card. Please note that the exact orientation schedule may vary by country, but rest assured that our local teams will make sure you’re ready for your volunteering journey.

For many first-time travellers, heading abroad can feel both exciting and daunting. At PMGY, we take every precaution to make our teaching abroad volunteer programs as safe as possible. While no experience can ever be 100% risk-free, our robust safety measures provide peace of mind for both volunteers and their families.

Every program has been personally inspected and approved by a PMGY director. We’ve lived in the Volunteer House, experienced the orientation, and worked on the projects ourselves. Through frequent visits and daily communications, we’ve built strong, trusting relationships with our local teams, ensuring that all programs meet our high standards.

In the unlikely event of an issue, volunteers have access to several layers of support:

• PMGY Local Team
• Project Staff
• PMGY International Team

Our programs are continually monitored to evaluate volunteer experiences and ensure high standards. We rely on volunteer feedback to make ongoing improvements to improve teaching placements and volunteer opportunities. Safety and security are regularly assessed, and participants are encouraged to raise concerns with our local or International Teams, allowing us to resolve issues promptly and effectively.

Pre-Departure and In-Country Guidance

To ensure you’re fully prepared, PMGY provides comprehensive pre-departure guidance and an in-depth safety briefing during your orientation. Our local teams cover all the essentials, including project introductions, emergency procedures, tips for using local transport, and cultural differences. Volunteers also receive a full list of important contact numbers, ensuring you always know who to reach out to.

General Safety Tips

While our local teams work hard to ensure your safety, we encourage volunteers to follow these general tips for an even more secure experience:

• Be modest with jewellery worn in public.
• Avoid drinking tap water.
• Stay vigilant in crowds or near beggars; distractions may be used to target you.
• Be discreet when handling money in public.
• Plan your journeys carefully, especially at night, and know your destination in advance.
• Use only reputable transport providers; recommendations will be provided during your orientation.
• Stay in groups at night and avoid walking alone in dark or isolated areas.
• Keep valuables safe, especially when heading out of the accommodation.
• Be cautious of traffic, always looking left and right before crossing roads.
• Never accept food or drinks from strangers.

By following these guidelines and the advice provided by our in-country teams, you’ll be able to enjoy a safe, enriching, and memorable experience as a volunteer teacher abroad.

🇮🇩 Tabanan – On the Bali volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is included in your Program Fee. Some of our projects are within walking distance of the Volunteer House, while others are not. For those further away, PMGY provides transport via minivan or private car to ensure you get to and from your placement with ease.

🇰🇭 Bakod Village – On the Cambodia volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is included in your Program Fee. The main project is conveniently located on the same grounds as the volunteer accommodation, making the daily commute a short walk.

🇨🇷 Coronado – On the Costa Rica volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is not included in your Program Fee. Transport will typically be by local bus or walking. The bus stop is conveniently located just outside the volunteer accommodation. The local team will assist you in learning the routes, helping you confidently navigate your daily commute.

🇪🇨 Quito – On the Ecuador volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is not included in your Program Fee. Most volunteers will use local buses, with the bus stop located near your host family. The local team will ensure you are comfortable with the routes, so you can easily manage the commute to and from your project.

🇬🇭 Accra – On the Ghana volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is not included in your Program Fee. Volunteers typically share the cost of taxis to their placements. The local team will guide you through the process during orientation. Heavy traffic and poor road infrastructure are common in Accra, and journeys can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour from the Volunteer House.

🇮🇳 Faridabad – On the India volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is included in your Program Fee. Our local team operates private transport networks to take you to and from your placement. If the project is not within walking distance, transport is provided by tuk-tuk or minivan, all included in your Program Fee.

🇳🇵 Kathmandu, Chitwan & Pokhara – On the Nepal volunteer program, most projects are within walking distance of the volunteer accommodation. Monastery placements are located on-site, while host family placements are generally a 15-20 minute walk away. This convenient setup ensures minimal travel time for volunteers in Nepal.

🇵🇪 Cusco – On the Peru volunteer program, the cost of your transport to the project is not included in your Program Fee. Volunteers typically use local buses or walk. Bus stops are conveniently located near host families or the Spanish school. The local team will guide you through the routes, ensuring you’re confident navigating your commute.

🇿🇦 Cape Town – On the South Africa volunteer program, the cost of your transport to the project is not included in your Program Fee. Most volunteers use Uber, although some placements are within walking distance of the Volunteer House. Commutes generally take around 30 minutes. The local team will assist you in navigating transport or pair you with an experienced volunteer at your placement.

🇱🇰 Ambalangoda – On the Sri Lanka volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is included in your Program Fee. Transport is typically provided by tuk-tuk or private car. Commute times range from 10 to 45 minutes each way, depending on the location of your project.

🇹🇿 Arusha – On the Tanzania volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is not included in your Program Fee. The majority of projects are within walking distance from the Volunteer House, but some are further afield. In these latter cases, you can take a local bus (dala dala) or a tuk-tuk to your placement, with travel times of up to 45 minutes for your volunteer work in Tanzania. During your orientation, the local team will guide you through the transport system and provide advice on costs. If you’re ever unsure about fares, they’ll be happy to assist.

🇻🇳 Hanoi – On the Vietnam volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is included in your Program Fee. Most placements are within a one-hour commute of the Volunteer House. Volunteers receive a bus pass or are reimbursed for travel fares weekly. The bus station is a short walk from the Volunteer House.

🇹🇿 Zanzibar – On the Zanzibar volunteer program, the cost of your project transport is not included in your Program Fee. The majority of projects are within walking distance from the Volunteer House, but some are further afield. In these latter cases, you can take a local bus (dala dala) or a tuk-tuk to your placement, with travel times of up to 30 minutes for your volunteer work in Tanzania. During your orientation, the local team will guide you through the transport system and provide advice on costs. If you’re ever unsure about fares, they’ll be happy to assist.

PMGY welcomes volunteers of all nationalities and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 17, and there is no upper age limit. All volunteers need to have a good level of English, although it does not need to be your first language. You do not need to speak the local language; however, learning a few words during your time with us will go a long way and greatly enrich your experience!

You do not need to have studied for a TEFL Certificate (Teach English as a Foreign Language) to join the teaching program. However, we recommend completing a TEFL course if you want to maximise your overall experience as a volunteer teacher.

For volunteers in South America, we recommend speaking a reasonable level of Spanish before your trip. While there are no specific language requirements to join the program and beginners are welcome, the ability to speak Spanish—and a passion for learning more—will significantly enhance your experience. English is generally not widely spoken, so our programs in South America should be viewed as broader language immersion experiences. If you do not speak Spanish, you may find it challenging to communicate, which could lead to frustration. We strongly encourage participants to prepare for this aspect of their trip.

All participants must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering abroad with us. No formal experience or qualifications are required—just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a willingness to prepare!

To confirm your place on a PMGY program, you need to pay a Registration Fee. The remaining Program Fee is due no less than 60 days before your program start date.

For more information on how to join one of our volunteer teaching English abroad programs, please visit our Application Process.