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!
Teaching Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Practical Teaching Skills Supporting Students Across Coronado Schools
- Teach English & Assist With Lessons, Classroom Activities & Learning Support
- Explore More Of Costa Rica With Weekend Trips To La Fortuna & Jaco Beach
- Experience Costa Rican Culture Through Salsa, Cooking Classes & Coffee Tours
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.
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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.
Other Things to Consider Teaching Children in Costa Rica
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Experience – Prior teaching experience is not required for the English Teaching program, as the presence of a fluent English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined, and resourceful, you will have a positive impact on the children's educational development.
Preparation and Initiative – Since each school and community setting works in its own way, volunteers are encouraged to develop a few simple lesson ideas or activity plans as they settle into the project. The local team is available to share examples and practical resources that will help you prepare. Volunteers usually take the lead in guiding daily activities, and a local coordinator is on hand to provide steady support and oversight when needed, creating a balanced environment where your ideas can develop while local routines and expectations are respected.
TEFL Course – We recommend that volunteers prepare thoroughly for their teaching program overseas. To maximise your impact, consider completing our convenient, affordable, and internationally accredited 60-hour Online TEFL Course.
Spanish Requirements – Like all our volunteer in Costa Rica programs, we recommend having a reasonable level of Spanish before your trip. While there are no mandatory language requirements, and beginners are welcome, being able to communicate in Spanish will significantly enhance your experience. English is not widely spoken in Costa Rica, so the program should also be seen as a language immersion opportunity. Limited Spanish skills may lead to communication challenges and a more frustrating experience.
To support this, all PMGY participants begin their program with the learn Spanish in Costa Rica week, which includes 20 group lessons per week and optional cultural activities in the afternoons. If you are the only participant at your level, you may instead receive 15 private lessons per week. Each lesson lasts 50 minutes.
Before arrival, you’ll receive a Spanish proficiency form via email to assess your level, enabling the team to prepare your classes. This initial week aims to improve your Spanish before starting your volunteer placement. Many participants in Costa Rica join solely for the Language Immersion Program, making it an integral part of the overall cultural experience.
PMGY also offers Online Spanish Lessons before your trip, providing one-on-one classes with trained Spanish teachers via Zoom. Once in Costa Rica, you can arrange additional lessons with the local team. However, volunteer feedback suggests that balancing language lessons with your Costa Rica volunteer programs can be tiring. For this reason, we recommend only extending your Language Immersion Program if you wish to focus on improving your Spanish skills.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Just a few hours from San José, Manuel Antonio is a tropical escape where rainforest meets white-sand beaches. Home to the world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park, this destination is perfect for spotting monkeys, sloths, toucans, and iguanas, or simply relaxing by the ocean.
Getting There
• 3.5–5 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–12 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park – 50 GBP
• Canopy Zip Lining – 70–100 GBP
• Jungle Night Tour – 40–50 GBP
• Relax on the Beach – 5–10 GBP
On Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, Puerto Viejo is a chilled-out beach town with a mix of Afro-Caribbean culture, reggae music, colourful street art, and delicious food. Known for its surf breaks and jungle backdrop, it’s a favourite among backpackers, surfers, and nature lovers. The best way to get around is by bicycle, with a smooth coastal road connecting stunning beaches and wildlife spots.
Getting There
• 5–6 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–15 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Snorkelling Trips – 50–70 GBP
• Surfing Lessons – 30–40 GBP
• Bicycle Rental – 6–8 GBP per day
• Salsa Classes – Up to 5 GBP
• Explore National Parks – 5–20 GBP (unguided)
La Fortuna is the adventure capital of northern Costa Rica, set at the base of the famous Arenal Volcano. The area is filled with natural wonders, from rainforest hikes and waterfalls to thermal hot springs. It’s the perfect spot for thrill-seekers and nature lovers, offering activities like ziplining, rafting, and exploring the iconic volcano. The town itself is small and welcoming, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and tour options to choose from.
Getting There
• 3–4 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–15 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private -27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Arenal Volcano Hike – 15–20 GBP
• Hanging Bridges – 35–45 GBP
• La Fortuna Waterfall – 20–25 GBP
• Hot Springs – 25–70 GBP (depending on standard)
• Full Adventure Day Trip – 80–120 GBP
Monteverde is one of Costa Rica’s most famous natural treasures, known for its misty highland forests and incredible biodiversity. Nestled in the Tilarán Mountains, this cloud forest is home to hundreds of bird species including the rare resplendent quetzal, as well as sloths, monkeys, orchids, and endless plant life. It’s a cooler escape from the coast and perfect for hiking, wildlife spotting, and learning about Costa Rica’s unique ecosystems. Early mornings and night tours are especially magical here.
Getting There
• 4–5 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 10–12 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
• Cabina/Airbnb – 40–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Guided Cloud Forest Hike – 20–30 GBP
• Hanging Bridges – 35–45 GBP
• Night Wildlife Tour – 30–35 GBP
• Coffee & Chocolate Tour – 45–50 GBP
• Biodiversity Exhibits & Gardens – 20–30 GBP each
Jacó is one of Costa Rica’s most accessible and lively beach towns, located just a couple of hours from San José. Known for its surf-friendly waves and buzzing nightlife, it’s a favourite for surfers, backpackers, and travellers looking for a fun mix of adventure and relaxation. The town has a long sandy beach, plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops, and is a great base for both water sports and nearby day trips.
Getting There
• 2–3 hours by bus
• Tickets cost around 5–7 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 12–15 GBP per night
• Hostel Private – 27–35 GBP per night
• Hotel – 45–55 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Surf Lessons – 40–50 GBP
• Ziplining – 60–80 GBP
• Horseback Riding – 60–80 GBP
• Chocolate Tour – 40–50 GBP
• Crocodile Safari – 25–35 GBP
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- Two women enjoy a joyful bike ride along a sunny, tropical street filled with cafes, greenery, and colourful outdoor scenes.
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- A diverse group marvels at the lush rainforest canopy during a Costa Rica adventure.
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- A tranquil Costa Rican sunset with a silhouette, lush greenery, and tall palm trees, perfect for peaceful reflection.
Accommodation - Shared & Comfort Options Available
Volunteer House
All volunteers in Costa Rica stay at our Volunteer House in Coronado, a suburb of San José. The house is well located, with cafés, restaurants, convenience stores, ATMs and pubs within walking distance. You will live alongside other volunteers, creating a friendly and social environment with plenty of opportunities to spend time together, while still having space to relax.
The house has a communal lounge, fully equipped kitchens, fridge space for chilled items and an onsite laundry room with washers and dryers. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. The residence is located within a secure compound with 24 hour security and a digital keypad at the entrance.
Both shared and private room options are available within the same Volunteer House, so everyone enjoys the same communal facilities and social experience. All rooms have single beds, cupboard space and bed linen provided. Each room also has secure storage available, and we recommend bringing a small padlock for your valuables.
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
Our Shared Option is a great choice for volunteers who want a social experience during their time in Costa Rica. Rooms are same sex and accommodate up to 3 volunteers, making it easy to get to know other participants and settle into life at the Volunteer House. Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include showers and western style toilets. This is our standard accommodation option and is particularly popular with younger volunteers who enjoy sharing their experience with others and making the most of the communal atmosphere at the house.
🔒 Comfort Option - Private Room Upgrade 150 USD100 GBP120 EUR210 AUD170 CAD Per Week (Recommended for 26+ Year Olds)
For volunteers who prefer more personal space, our Comfort Option provides a private room within the same Volunteer House. This gives you additional privacy and your own space to unwind, while still allowing you to enjoy the social side of living alongside other volunteers.
Comfort rooms can accommodate a solo traveller or up to 2 participants travelling together, with 2 single beds. Solo travellers have the room to themselves with their own key and sole access. Bathroom facilities include a shower and western style toilet and are shared.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 3 (Shared) or 1 (Comfort)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
45 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
15 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Costa Rica, meals are not included. However, local supermarkets are within walking distance of the Volunteer House, making it easy to shop for your groceries. On weekends, there’s a popular farmers market just a few blocks away, where you can purchase fresh produce and experience local culture. Many volunteers choose to prepare meals together, sharing ingredients and minimising their weekly food budget. Of course, if you prefer to prepare meals individually or eat out more often, you should budget accordingly.
Traditional Costa Rican meals from local restaurants tend to be more affordable than international options. Eating out in Coronado is generally cheaper than in San José, so plan your dining choices accordingly. Alternatively, you can use services like Uber Eats to have food delivered directly to the Volunteer House.
Program Location
FAQ's
As a Costa Rica 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 Costa Rica 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.
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 Saturday 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 Costa Rica, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Costa Rica teaching volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
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.
Many of our Costa Rica teaching volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
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 Costa Rica teaching volunteer.
Before you embark on your journey, you’ll receive a comprehensive Volunteer Handbook, which covers key topics such as health, safety, visas, and dress codes. If you have additional or specific questions, our dedicated support team is available 24/7 to assist. Furthermore, on a monthly basis, PMGY hosts an Introductory Webinar and a Safety Webinar. These interactive sessions offer invaluable information about our projects and practical tips for staying safe abroad.
When you arrive in-country, you’ll participate in a detailed orientation session. This introduction will cover the general volunteer program and your specific project, including essential safety advice tailored to your destination. During this session, you’ll also have the opportunity to purchase a local SIM card — a step we highly recommend to ensure you remain contactable at all times. Additionally, you’ll receive a comprehensive list of essential contact numbers to keep on hand during your stay.
While no travel experience can ever be guaranteed 100% trouble-free, PMGY has taken every precaution to ensure that your time as a Costa Rica teaching volunteer is as safe and enjoyable as possible. We strongly suggest following the local team’s guidance and advice to ensure your safety throughout your journey.
