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.
Teaching Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Practical Teaching Skills With Students In Cape Town Primary Schools
- Teach English & Assist With Reading, Lesson Planning & Classroom Activities
- Explore More Of South Africa With Weekend Trips Along The Garden Route
- Experience Cape Town Through Braai Nights, The Waterfront & Table Mountain
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.
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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.
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Other Things to Consider When Teaching Children in South Africa
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. It is strongly advised not to use public transport for airport transfers, as they are less convenient and pose additional safety risks.
Experience – Prior teaching experience is not required for the English Teaching program, as the presence of a fluent English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined, and resourceful, you will have a positive impact on the children's educational development.
TEFL Course – We recommend that volunteers prepare thoroughly for their teaching program overseas. To maximise your impact, consider completing our convenient, affordable, and internationally accredited 60-hour Online TEFL Course.
Township Projects - Most of the projects we support are centrally located within Cape Town. Township-based projects tend to be more challenging due to logistical and structural limitations. As such, we do not actively promote or endorse these projects. However, should volunteers wish to experience township projects, arrangements may be made on an ad hoc basis, subject to the discretion of the local team. Volunteers can discuss this with the team upon arrival in South Africa.
Project Locations - The daycare and school settings we support are situated in Cape Town’s city centre. Many of the children attending these facilities come from townships with limited resources. Families from low-income areas often rely on employer-subsidised childcare or school fees. Overseas volunteers bring invaluable enthusiasm and support, significantly impacting the early education of these children. Your efforts, whether helping a child improve their English or assisting them to catch up, can greatly enhance their understanding and future employability.
Resources – On the teach English in South Africa project, resources can be limited. We recommend that volunteers bring materials with them each day to enhance productivity and involvement. Preparing in advance will help you get the most out of your teaching English overseas experience.
Wildlife Reserve Extension – Keep your adventure going after your time in Cape Town by joining our Wildlife Reserve Project near Port Elizabeth. These exciting extensions let you build on your volunteering journey and experience a different side of South Africa. You can choose to join for one week or longer, with your extension beginning on the Sunday or Monday right after your first program ends. To make things simple, the one-way domestic flight from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth is included in the price.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
A day in Stellenbosch offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and world-class wine. Begin with a stroll through the charming town centre, exploring its Cape Dutch architecture, boutiques, and galleries. Then, head into the surrounding winelands for a tasting experience at one of the many nearby vineyards. Enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking the vines and mountains, before spending the afternoon walking through the botanical gardens or along peaceful nature trails.
Getting There
• 1 hour by Uber or 2 hours by train from Cape Town
• Train – 8 GBP per person
• Uber – 20 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Cape Town
Things to Do
• Standard Wine Tasting – 3–5 GBP
• Wine Tour – 60 GBP
• E-Bike Tour – 30 GBP
• Stellenbosch Village Museum – 5 GBP
Muizenberg combines the relaxed charm of a beach town with the thrill of surfing South Africa’s most iconic waves. Spend the morning learning to surf at Surfer’s Corner, enjoy coffee at a colourful beachfront café, and explore the lively promenade. The afternoon is perfect for lounging on the sand, visiting tidal pools, or watching kite surfers glide across the bay. End the day with fresh seafood and sunset views of the mountains meeting the ocean.
Getting There
• 30–50 minutes from Cape Town
• Public Transport – 3 GBP per person
• Uber – 15 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Cape Town
Things to Do
• Group Surf Lesson – 25 GBP
• Board & Wetsuit Hire – 12 GBP
• Beach Cafés – 4–6 GBP
Add an unforgettable Big Five safari to your Cape Town itinerary with a full-day trip to the Aquila Private Game Reserve. Set in the heart of the Karoo, this 10,000-hectare reserve offers breathtaking scenery and a chance to see elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo up close. Led by experienced rangers, you’ll enjoy a traditional vehicle safari, wildlife photography opportunities, and fascinating insights into the local ecosystem, all within easy reach of the city.
Getting There
• 1.5 hours from Cape Town
• Private Bus/Safari Jeep
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Cape Town
Things to Do
• Safari at Aquila Reserve – Included
• Spot the African Big Five – Included
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cape Peninsula on a full-day guided tour. Travel along one of South Africa’s most scenic coastal routes, stopping at iconic landmarks such as Chapman’s Peak Drive, the Cape of Good Hope, and Muizenberg Beach. The highlight for many is Boulders Beach, where you can see the famous colony of African penguins up close. It’s the ideal mix of nature, culture, and adventure, offering a full taste of what Cape Town has to offer.
Getting There
• Around 3 hours of driving with multiple stops
• Private Tour Bus
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Cape Town
Things to Do
• Chapman’s Peak Drive – Included
• Cape of Good Hope – Included
• Muizenberg Beach – Included
• Boulders Beach (Penguins!) – Included
Embark on a multi-day adventure along South Africa’s famous Garden Route, a stretch of coastline known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Travel via the scenic Route 62 to Oudtshoorn to explore the Cango Caves, meet orphaned elephants on a bush walk, and canoe through Wilderness National Park. Discover the lush forests of Tsitsikamma, experience the thrill of Bloukrans Bridge, and enjoy a guided 4×4 safari in search of the Big Five. It’s the ultimate South African road trip packed with nature, wildlife, and unforgettable moments.
Getting There
• 5 hours by bus from Cape Town
• Approx. 20 GBP each way
Where to Stay
• Hostel Dorm – 15–20 GBP per night
• Guesthouse/Small Hotel – 40–70 GBP per night
• Hotel – 70 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Cango Caves – 10 GBP
• Elephant Bush Walk – 40 GBP
• Bloukrans Bridge Bungee – 75 GBP
• Tsitsikamma Nature’s Valley – 7 GBP
• Storms River Mouth – 15 GBP
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- A young woman happily interacts with majestic elephants in a dry, open landscape, capturing a touching moment of human-animal connection.
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- Friends celebrating with colourful drinks at sunset on a scenic beach, enjoying friendship, relaxation, and seaside joy.
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- Nine friends in summer outfits enjoy a joyful day at a scenic vineyard in Cape Town.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the South Africa volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in Observatory, fondly known as “Obz” by locals. This characterful Cape Town suburb is home to South Africa’s oldest astronomical observatory and provides a convenient base for volunteers. Lower Main Road is around a 10 minute walk away, with cafés, restaurants, shops and plenty of places to socialise during your free time.
The Volunteer House provides a comfortable and social base where you will live alongside other PMGY participants. Free Wi-Fi is available, and there is a communal area with sofas and a TV where you can relax and spend time with other volunteers. Fridge space is also available for storing food and drinks that need to be kept chilled.
Bedrooms are arranged as same sex dormitories with bunk beds and accommodate up to 8 volunteers per room. A bedsheet and blanket are provided for each volunteer. Cape Town can be cooler during the winter months from June to August, particularly during the evenings, so we recommend packing some warm clothing for this time of year.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include showers and western style toilets.
Each volunteer is also provided with a lockable cupboard for storing personal belongings and smaller valuables. We recommend bringing a small padlock so you can secure your cupboard throughout your stay.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
20 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
5 Minute Walk
Meals
During your volunteer trip to South Africa, breakfast will be provided at the Volunteer House. You will need to budget for lunch and dinner during the weekdays and all meals over the weekend. While the Volunteer House has a kitchen, it is quite small, so preparing your own meals can be challenging. As a result, many volunteers find it more practical to eat out for lunch and at weekends.
Breakfast is self-service, with all cutlery and crockery provided. If you fancy dining out, there are plenty of cafés, restaurants, and local amenities within walking distance.
* 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 is an example of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast
Toast, Fruits, Eggs, Cheese, Peanut Butter, Jam
Lunch
Not Included
Dinner
Not Included
Program Location
FAQ's
As a South Africa teaching volunteer, you must provide a clean criminal background check before volunteering with us abroad. This ensures the safety and well-being of the children and communities we work with. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept anyone with previous criminal convictions.
In general, no formal experience or qualifications are required to join the teaching projects — just lots of energy, enthusiasm, and a proactive approach to preparation!
Volunteering overseas can be a rewarding yet demanding experience. It can be physically and mentally challenging, so all participants must be fit in both areas. If you have any medical or mental health conditions that may affect your participation, these must be disclosed to us during your online application. This ensures we can best support you and assess the program’s suitability.
If you have any concerns or queries regarding your eligibility or suitability for the South Africa teaching program, we recommend that you contact us before committing to the program. Our team is always happy to assist you in making an informed decision and ensuring a positive and enriching experience for all involved.
For your volunteer trip to South Africa, you should book your flights to Cape Town International Airport (airport code CPT) to arrive on the designated Sunday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a South Africa teaching volunteer.
Upon your arrival, you will be warmly greeted at the airport by a member of our local team or an appointed driver. They will be easy to spot, holding a sign with your name to ensure you feel welcomed from the moment you land. From there, they will escort you to your accommodation, where you will have the rest of the day to relax, settle in, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
The program officially ends on the 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 South Africa, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a South Africa teaching volunteer will leave you with unforgettable memories, meaningful connections, and a lasting impact on the communities you’ve helped.
You can apply anytime for most of our programs, including the South Africa teaching volunteer program. However, we highly recommend applying soon to secure your spot. Some of our programs have limited capacity, and spaces can fill quickly, especially during our peak travel period from June to August. If you plan to join us during this time, applying early is even more important to avoid disappointment!
When you embark on this experience, you must be 100% committed to joining the program. To apply, locate the “Apply Now” button on the individual project page. This will guide you step-by-step through our online Application Process. We’ve made it as straightforward and user-friendly as possible so that you can easily secure your place.
Based on feedback from previous South Africa teaching volunteers, we’ve found that 4-6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to fully immerse yourself in the experience of volunteering in South Africa. 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 South Africa’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our South Africa teaching volunteers who joined us for just 2 weeks often expressed that their time was too short. They leave wishing they had stayed longer to further engage with the projects they’ve grown passionate about. If your schedule allows, we highly encourage you to consider a longer stay to make the most of this life-changing experience!
While our programs are available for longer durations, volunteers can initially sign up for a maximum of 12 weeks in each destination. In the past, we’ve found that some volunteers commit to extended placements but later wish to adjust their plans for independent travel or to join another program. Please note, however, that Program Fees are non-refundable once committed. If you arrive and find yourself loving the program (as many do!), you are more than welcome to extend your placement. Extensions are subject to availability at the time of your request, but our team will do their best to accommodate your desire to stay longer and continue making an impact.
For those considering an even more adventurous journey, we recommend exploring our Encounter Programs. These unique opportunities allow you to experience 2-4 week stays across 3-10 destinations, offering a perfect balance of travel, cultural immersion, and volunteering.
At PMGY, we understand the importance of safety, especially for first-time travellers, and we work diligently to ensure that all our programs, including those in South Africa, 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 South Africa 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 South Africa 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.
