Join PMGY as a childcare volunteer in Cambodia and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children aged 4 to 7, just before they start formal schooling. In the vibrant Takeo Province, you’ll have the chance to bring joy, energy, and creativity to their days. From organising fun educational activities to leading engaging games, your efforts will help nurture these little ones and inspire a love for learning. This is your opportunity to make a lasting impact while sharing unforgettable moments with children eager to explore and grow!
Childcare Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Childcare Skills While Experiencing Community Life In Takeo Province
- Support Local Children Through Creative Learning, Play & Social Activities
- Explore More Of Cambodia With Weekend Trips To Siem Reap & Angkor Wat
- Experience Cambodian Culture Through Local Markets & Village Traditions
Background to the Childcare Program
The early years of a child’s life are critically important, laying the foundation for their future health, happiness, and learning success. As a childcare volunteer in Cambodia, you’ll have the opportunity to think and act creatively. In doing so, you can make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of young children within the local community.
Tourism plays a vital role in Cambodia’s economy, and individuals who can speak English with visitors have far greater opportunities than those who cannot. By introducing children to English at an early age, we help set them on a path to developing this essential lifelong skill. Interaction with native English speakers offers an invaluable head start. Our PMGY childcare program in Cambodia supports local children by enhancing their English language skills, improving social integration, and encouraging the development of motor skills.
Every day as a childcare volunteer in Cambodia is unique, and the experience is shaped by what you bring to it. Arriving with plenty of ideas for fun and educational activities will help you make the most of your time and dive straight into the program. Volunteers with children in Cambodia have the chance to get creative and make a significant impact on the lives of young ones in the community. If you’re looking for inspiration for gap year volunteer programs, our projects in Cambodia offer incredible opportunities to make a difference.
Childcare Volunteer Placement Examples
Hope Daycare - Our primary program in Cambodia is based in Takeo Province, south of Phnom Penh, the country’s capital. The children participating in the childcare program come from nearby villages. The daycare centre is located on the same campus as our team’s teaching English program for older children and teenagers. The aim is for the younger children to eventually transition into these programmes as they grow, making integration smoother.
Established in 2018, the daycare program operates in a classroom environment and welcomes up to 50 children aged 4 to 7 each day. Many children travel as far as 7km daily to attend, eager to learn, socialise, and enhance their early education.
Learn More...
International volunteers are supported by daily itineraries prepared by the local staff. For volunteer work in Cambodia, there’s an on-site office stocked with resources and textbooks to help you plan lessons. Volunteers with children in Cambodia are encouraged to bring creative and engaging ideas to help manage the class effectively.
Your Volunteer Role & Typical Childcare Day
On the childcare volunteer abroad program, you’ll prepare, deliver, and lead activities and basic English lessons to support local children. Volunteers with children in Cambodia can expect to spend 3–4 hours per day on the project. Typical working hours for a Cambodia childcare volunteer are from 1–4pm, during which you’ll take on a variety of roles and tasks.
Your day will usually begin with a fun and energetic first hour, featuring songs, games, and basic hygiene routines such as teeth brushing. Once the children have burned off some energy, around an hour is dedicated to learning. This may include recognising the alphabet, practising phonics, or learning basic greetings. These activities help children get familiar with English as a foreign language and lay the foundation for learning other subjects in the future. The day often wraps up with engaging activities like arts and crafts or group games, which help develop fine motor skills and dexterity.
Learn More...
When you volunteer in Cambodia, it’s a great idea to spend time planning each day. This ensures you get the most out of your project time and provide better learning opportunities for the children. As a Cambodia childcare volunteer, you’ll also have the optional opportunity to assist or lead a class in the English Teaching project for older children. However, this is not a mandatory part of the program.
Other Things to Consider Working With Children in Cambodia
Return Airport Transfer – Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Accommodation Setup - Our Cambodia volunteer programs are based in Takeo Province, a rural setting approximately two hours south of Phnom Penh. Accommodation is basic, located in a remote area, and set up in a dormitory-style format. The program fosters a sense of community, with volunteers taking responsibility for cleaning and maintaining the shared living spaces. Morning chores may include tasks such as gardening, cleaning, or small renovation projects. This collective effort helps ensure a comfortable and welcoming Volunteer House for everyone.
High Impact Volunteer Location - The rural nature of this program makes it a highly authentic and rewarding experience. Volunteers often find a clearer sense of purpose and feel more connected to their contributions to the local community. This sense of impact can be highly motivating, making it easier to engage and get involved each day. The Cambodia program is ideal for those who want to maximise their volunteer experience away from the tourist-heavy distractions of more urban locations.
Placement Settings – PMGY does not offer volunteer opportunities in orphanages in any location. Studies have shown that volunteering in orphanages can inadvertently support an industry that separates children from their families, putting them at risk of neglect and abuse. As a result, PMGY does not work with or support such institutions.
Instead, our programs focus on alternative childcare opportunities where children come to and from the placement daily. Our local teams partner with safe, responsible, and vetted projects that do not provide residential care. These settings allow volunteers to offer meaningful support to local staff while ensuring the safety and well-being of the children.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Home to the world’s largest religious monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat, Siem Reap is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling through Cambodia. Beyond the iconic temples, the city offers plenty to explore – from floating villages and lotus farms to the mesmerising Phare Circus, performed by talented local street children. Siem Reap is also a lively backpacker hub filled with great food, vibrant nightlife, and bustling markets that capture the spirit of Cambodia.
Getting There
• 10 hours from Takeo
• Overnight Bus – 13 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 3–8 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 10–20 GBP per night
• Hotel – 40+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Angkor Wat Day Pass – 28 GBP
• Floating Villages – 23 GBP
• Lotus Farms – 12–25 GBP
• Phare Circus – 22 GBP
Known as the adventure capital of Cambodia, Kampot is the perfect weekend escape for nature lovers. Just a short two-hour drive from Takeo, it offers a mix of outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and river tubing. After a day of exploring, unwind with a sunset cruise on the river or enjoy the relaxed charm of this riverside town filled with cafés and boutique guesthouses.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Takeo
• Private Taxi – 38 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 2–7 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 8–20 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Sunset River Cruise – 7 GBP
• Hikes/Waterfalls – 5 GBP
• Kayaking Tour through the Mangroves – 21 GBP
• River Tubing – 3 GBP
Koh Rong is Cambodia’s island paradise, famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear water, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a favourite among backpackers looking to relax, explore, and enjoy island life. Spend your days paddleboarding, snorkelling, or joining a boat trip to see the glowing bioluminescent plankton at night. Most volunteers stay on Long Set Beach, which offers easy access, beachside accommodation, and a welcoming social scene.
Getting There
• 4 hours from Takeo
• Private Taxi & Boat – 90 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 8–15 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 20–40 GBP per night
• Beachfront Hotel – 50+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Snorkelling – 10 GBP
• BBQ & Sunset Trip – 8 GBP
• Bioluminescent Plankton Boat Tour – 5 GBP
• Waterfalls – 7 GBP (Transport)
Cambodia’s capital city, Phnom Penh, offers a powerful and reflective experience through its historical landmarks. Just an hour away from Takeo, volunteers can visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields to learn about the Khmer Rouge era and Cambodia’s path to recovery. It’s an emotional yet vital trip that provides deep insight into the country’s history and the resilience of its people.
Getting There
• 1 hour from Takeo
• Private Taxi – 38 GBP
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Takeo
Things to Do
• Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum – 6 GBP
• Choeung Ek Killing Fields – 5 GBP
A two-day trip to Battambang offers a beautiful mix of culture, history, and adventure. After a five to six-hour drive, explore the town’s colonial architecture, lively markets, and the famous Bamboo Train. Visit nearby temples such as Wat Ek Phnom and Phnom Banan, and catch the spectacular bat exodus at dusk. On your second day, take a scenic boat ride along the Sangker River or visit the local museum before heading back to Takeo.
Getting There
• 6 hours from Takeo
• Bus – 9 GBP
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 3–8 GBP per night
• Small Hotel/Guesthouse – 10–15 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25+ GBP per night
Things to Do
• Bamboo Train – 5 GBP
• Bat Caves/Killing Caves – 15 GBP
• Full Day Tour (Wat Banan + Phnom Sampov) – 15 GBP
-
- Two happy women in colourful bikinis enjoy a sunny beach with turquoise waters and distant island views.
-
- Joyful friends relax and swim at a tropical waterfall surrounded by lush greenery in Cambodia.
-
- Eight friends celebrate sunrise at Angkor Wat, sharing joyful moments against a vibrant sky and lush tropical scenery.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
On the Cambodia volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House, located in the rural village of Bakod. The accommodation is approximately a 20 minute tuk tuk ride from Takeo, where you can find local restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs. Most of our main volunteer projects are based on the same grounds as the Volunteer House, making it convenient to combine your daily project work with life alongside other international volunteers.
Wi-Fi is available at the Volunteer House, although volunteers may also wish to purchase a local SIM card for use with an unlocked mobile phone. Communal spaces include hammocks and areas where you can relax and socialise with other volunteers. A small café is located just offsite, while a local laundry service is available for a small cost. Handwashing facilities are also provided onsite.
Both shared and private room options are available. Bedrooms have air conditioning and bed linen is provided. Air conditioning is usually turned off between 10am and 4pm to help manage the local power supply, with fans remaining operational during this time.
The Volunteer House is located on the same campus as the local coordinators’ residence. This allows you to have your own volunteer living space while benefiting from having the local team close by for support throughout your stay. It also provides plenty of opportunities to learn more about Cambodian culture and everyday life in the local community.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option offers a social living experience, with same sex dormitory rooms accommodating up to 8 volunteers. Sharing with other participants makes it easy to get to know the group and enjoy the communal atmosphere of the Volunteer House.
Cupboard space is not available within the dormitory rooms, but each volunteer is provided with a trunk for storing personal belongings. We recommend bringing a small padlock to secure this, while valuables can also be stored securely with the local team.
Bathroom arrangements depend on the room allocated and availability. Where possible, volunteers will have access to a private bathroom, although some bathroom facilities may be shared with other volunteers. Bathrooms have western style facilities and showers. Hot water is not available, which is common locally given Cambodia’s warm tropical climate.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer additional personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private bedroom while still allowing you to enjoy the social environment and communal areas of the Volunteer House.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together and typically contain a double bed. Comfort rooms also provide cupboard space and a fridge for additional convenience during your stay.
Bathroom arrangements depend on the room allocated and availability. Where possible, your Comfort room will have a private bathroom for your use, although in some cases bathroom facilities may be shared. Bathrooms have western style facilities and showers, with cold water rather than hot water.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
1.5 Hours
Nearest ATM & Shops
20 Minute Drive
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Cambodia, you will be provided with breakfast and dinner from Monday to Friday at the Volunteer House. Breakfast typically includes toast, eggs, jam, noodles, tea, and coffee. Dinner is a mix of traditional Cambodian dishes with the occasional western meal. Filtered drinking water is available at no cost.
You will need to purchase your own lunch during the program. Volunteers often visit the local town or market a few times a week to stock up on supplies such as noodles, pasta, or snacks, which can be stored at the accommodation. Some food options are also available from the café just off-site.
If you choose to remain at the Volunteer House over the weekend, please note that meals will not be provided during this time. You will need to prepare or purchase your own food. However, many volunteers take this opportunity to travel and explore Cambodia during their free time.
* Our team will do their best to cater for dietary requirements, but this cannot always be guaranteed. Volunteers may need to purchase additional ingredients at their own expense. Please note any dietary requirements in your application and re-iterate them to the local team on arrival. For major concerns, contact the PMGY International Team before confirming your place on the program.
Here’s an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Toast, Eggs, Noodles, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Not Included
Dinner
Chicken Curry, Pasta, Noodles, Jacket Potatoes
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes childcare volunteers in Cambodia of all nationalities, religions, and backgrounds. The minimum age to join the program is 18, with no upper age limit. Additionally, all volunteers need to have good English, although it does not need to be your first language. While it’s not necessary to speak the local dialect, you’ll find that learning a few local words during your time in Cambodia will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Cambodia childcare volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the childcare projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the Cambodia childcare program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to Cambodia, you should book your flights to Techo International Airport in Phnom Penh (airport code KTI) to arrive on the designated Monday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Cambodia childcare volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the Sunday of your final week. This means you will need to vacate the accommodation on this day to make way for new participants arriving for their own life-changing experiences. Our local team will be available to assist with arranging transport to the airport or providing guidance for any onward travel plans you may have.
Whether you’re just arriving or bidding farewell to Cambodia, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Cambodia childcare volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the Cambodia Childcare volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous Cambodia childcare volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in Cambodia. This duration provides ample opportunity to integrate into the local community, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to your chosen project. Over this time, you’ll be able to make a lasting positive impact while having plenty of time to explore Cambodia’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Cambodia childcare volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in Cambodia, provide a secure and enriching experience. Our programs are carefully designed to balance structure and independence perfectly. This means you’ll enjoy a guided and supportive environment while free to explore and immerse yourself in local culture. For further details, please refer to our Safety & Wellbeing page.
Volunteer safety in each destination is a top priority and is monitored regularly. A member of our International Team has thoroughly inspected every PMGY program to ensure it meets our high standards. We also stay current with advice published by the UK’s Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office. Through constant communication with our local teams, we ensure that our volunteers are always placed in secure and stable regions.
Our International Team has personally visited and participated in every program we offer, paying close attention to every detail—from the living conditions and local neighbourhoods to the food you’ll enjoy. These meticulous checks ensure that all aspects of your stay meet our rigorous standards. Additionally, our local teams are experienced professionals with years of experience hosting international volunteers. They serve as PMGY’s trusted representatives, offering 24/7 support to all volunteers throughout their stay. To further enhance your safety, PMGY provides a 24-hour international emergency line accessible at all times. In-country staff also maintain connections with local medical professionals, ensuring that immediate assistance is available should it be required during your placement as a Cambodia Childcare volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Cambodia Childcare volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
