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.
Teaching Volunteer Program Highlights
- Support The UN’s Sustainable Development Goal No. 4 Through Education
- Build Practical Teaching Skills With Guidance From A Dedicated Local Team
- Teach English & Build Confidence Across High Schools & Community Classes
- Explore More Of Vietnam With Weekend Trips To Sapa, Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh
- Experience Vietnamese Culture Through Hanoi’s Food, Markets & Old Quarter
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.
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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.
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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.
Other Things to Consider Teaching in Vietnam
Return Airport Transfer - Your return airport transfer is not included in your Program Fee. However, our local team can assist in arranging onward transfers to the airport or another destination. Making arrangements once you’re in-country allows for greater flexibility, especially as plans can often change, and some participants may share similar flight schedules. Alternatively, ridesharing apps are a common and cost-effective option. Many participants travel during their final days and may not return to the airport directly from the accommodation. Costs will vary depending on your chosen method of transport and destination, and they can often be split if you’re travelling with fellow trip participants.
Experience – Prior teaching experience is not required for the English Teaching program, as the presence of a fluent English speaker is invaluable. As long as you are creative, determined, and resourceful, you will have a positive impact on the children's educational development.
TEFL Course – We recommend that volunteers prepare thoroughly for their teaching program overseas. To maximise your impact, consider completing our convenient, affordable, and internationally accredited 60-hour Online TEFL Course.
Resources – On the teach English in Vietnam 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.
Project Availability - Your placement location for your volunteer work in Vietnam will depend on the areas with the greatest need at the time. While the local team will do their best to assign you to your preferred project as noted in your application, this cannot always be guaranteed. It’s important to remain flexible and open to working in various locations.
During June and July, when most schools and universities are on summer vacation, volunteers on the Vietnam English teaching program will support community classes or summer camps. These camps, lasting around two weeks, are more relaxed and cater to three student levels: Primary, Middle School, and High School. Each group receives ten lessons over the two weeks, with one lesson per day from Monday to Thursday.
Weekend Trip Opportunities
Nestled in Vietnam’s northern highlands, Sapa is a serene mountain town known for its vast rice terraces, cool climate, and rich ethnic diversity. Home to Hmong, Dao, and Tay communities, it offers a unique cultural and natural escape. A weekend here includes guided treks through terraced hills, visits to remote villages, homestay cooking experiences, and evenings by the fire. For an added challenge, hike or take the cable car up Mount Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina.
Getting There
• 6 hours from Hanoi
• Sleeper Bus or Train
Where to Stay
• Homestay Dorm – 5–10 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 15–25 GBP per night
• Hotel – 30 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Guided Trekking – 10–20 GBP
• Fansipan Cable Car – 25 GBP
• Village Visits – Included
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Ha Long Bay enchants visitors with its limestone karsts, turquoise waters, and mystical caves. Just a few hours from Hanoi, this natural wonder is best explored on a day or overnight cruise, where you can kayak through hidden lagoons, visit caves like Sung Sot, and relax on deck amid breathtaking scenery. Many cruises include meals, island visits, and sunset activities, perfect for both adventure and relaxation.
Getting There
• 3 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Shared Tour
Where to Stay
• Overnight Cruise – 60–90 GBP per night
• Hotel in Ha Long City – 20–40 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Day Cruise – 35–50 GBP
• Kayaking & Cave Tours – Included
• Swimming – Free
Known as “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is a stunning region of rice fields, limestone cliffs, and peaceful rivers. Take a boat ride through the karst formations of Trang An or Tam Coc, hike to Mua Cave for panoramic views, and explore ancient temples like Hoa Lu and Bich Dong Pagoda. Rent a bicycle to wander through tranquil villages and enjoy the slow rhythm of rural life, a refreshing contrast to Hanoi’s bustle.
Getting There
• 2 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Train
Where to Stay
• Homestay Dorm – 5–10 GBP per night
• Guesthouse – 15–25 GBP per night
• Hotel – 30 GBP+ per night
Things to Do
• Trang An Boat Ride – 8 GBP
• Mua Cave Hike – 3 GBP
• Bicycle Hire – 2 GBP
• Temple Visits – Free
Located on Vietnam’s central coast, Hoi An is a beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed town that charms visitors with lantern-lit streets, riverside cafes, and tailor shops. Once a major trading port, it now offers a relaxed atmosphere, delicious food, and scenic countryside. Explore the Old Town, cruise along the Thu Bon River, and enjoy nearby beaches like An Bang. Most volunteers fly from Hanoi for convenience, maximising their weekend time.
Getting There
• 4 hours total travel time
• Flight & Short Transfer – 40–70 GBP
Where to Stay
• Guesthouse – 10–20 GBP per night
• Hotel – 25–40 GBP per night
Things to Do
• Old Town Entry – 4 GBP
• Lantern Boat Ride – 2 GBP
• Cooking Class – 15 GBP
Just 50km west of Hanoi, Duong Lam is one of Vietnam’s oldest and best-preserved villages, offering an authentic glimpse into rural life. Wander narrow lanes lined with laterite-brick houses, visit ancient temples, and share a traditional meal with locals. A cycling tour through the surrounding countryside is the perfect way to experience this charming and historic destination on a budget.
Getting There
• 1.5 hours from Hanoi
• Private Bus or Taxi
Where to Stay
• Day trip from Hanoi
Things to Do
• Village Entry – 1 GBP
• Biking Tour – 3 GBP
• Traditional Lunch – 3–5 GBP
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- A young woman relaxing on a wooden deck with stunning mountain views and lush greenery in Vietnam.
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- Young women enjoying a vibrant adventure exploring Vietnam’s limestone mountains at sunrise, celebrating friendship amid lush scenery.
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- A family relaxes under a rocky overhang, enjoying stunning mountain views and lush greenery during a peaceful hike in Vietnam.
Accommodation - Shared Option Available
Volunteer House
🛏️ Shared Option - Standard Offering (Recommended for 18-25 Year Olds)
During your time on the Vietnam volunteer program, you will stay in our Volunteer House in a quiet and friendly neighbourhood of Hanoi. The accommodation is around a 45 minute bus journey from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, with restaurants, convenience stores and ATMs within walking distance. Volunteer projects are located across different areas of the city, giving you the opportunity to experience more of Hanoi during your stay.
The Volunteer House provides a comfortable and social base where you will live alongside other international volunteers. Bedrooms are arranged as same sex dormitories and accommodate up to 8 volunteers per room. Rooms have air conditioning and bed linen is provided, with space available for hanging clothes.
Bathroom facilities are shared with other volunteers and include western style toilets and showers.
The house has a spacious communal area where you can relax and spend time with other participants. Free Wi-Fi is available in certain areas of the house, including the main communal space, although the connection can occasionally be intermittent. Volunteers may also wish to purchase a local SIM card for more consistent internet access.
There are 2 washing machines available for volunteers to use free of charge, with detergent available from nearby shops. Alternatively, affordable local laundry services can be found within the neighbourhood. Fridge space is also available for storing food and drinks that need to be kept chilled.
Each volunteer is provided with a locker for storing personal belongings and a house key for convenient access to the accommodation. A member of staff, such as a nanny or local team intern, also stays overnight at the Volunteer House, providing an additional point of contact and support.
Power cuts can occasionally occur in Hanoi and are generally resolved within a couple of hours.
Most volunteer projects are not within walking distance of the Volunteer House, so volunteers usually travel to their placements by public bus. The cost of your bus pass is included in your Program Fee, and the local team will explain your route and transport options during orientation.
Wi-Fi
Yes (Free)
People Per Room
Up To 8 (Shared)
Single Sex Rooms
Yes
Western Bathroom Facilities
Yes
Airport Transfer
45 Minutes
Nearest ATM & Shops
10 Minute Drive
Meals
During your volunteer trip to Vietnam, you will be provided with three meals a day, except on Saturdays when meals are not served. Meals are traditional Vietnamese dishes, with rice being a staple. All meals are freshly cooked and nutritious, with free drinking water available 24/7.
For breakfast, you can expect options like fruit, toast, and tea or coffee. Lunch is usually provided at the project if the travel time prevents volunteers from returning to the Volunteer House. In such cases, the local team will reimburse up to 40,000 VND for meals purchased at nearby cafes. When taken at the Volunteer House, lunch typically includes soup, rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish.
Dinner is served at the Volunteer House in the early evening, often buffet-style, and typically includes a variety of dishes to suit everyone’s tastes. Meals generally consist of pork, fish, beef, or chicken, as well as tofu or egg, vegetables, rice, and soup. On occasion, a western dish will be served, which is always a favourite among volunteers. It’s recommended to eat promptly when meals are ready, as food cools quickly.
If you wish to eat out, there are plenty of local cafes and restaurants in the surrounding area, or you can take a bus or taxi into Hanoi’s Old Quarter for more options.
* 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
Fruit, Toast, Tea/Coffee
Lunch
Soup, Rice, Vegetables, Meat, Fish
Dinner
Pork, Fish, Beef, Tofu, Egg, Vegetables, Rice, Soup
Program Location
FAQ's
PMGY welcomes teaching volunteers in Vietnam 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 Vietnam will go a long way in building connections and enriching your experience.
As a Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam, you should book your flights to Noi Bai International Airport – Hanoi (airport code HAN) to arrive on the designated Wednesday start date. This is the official arrival day for the program, ensuring a smooth and well-organised beginning to your experience as a Vietnam teaching volunteer.
Please check out our Chaperoned Flight options for group flights from London Heathrow on selected start dates.
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 Wednesday 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 Vietnam, our team is here to ensure your transition is as seamless and stress-free as possible. Your time as a Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam. 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 Vietnam’s incredible sights and culture during your weekends.
Many of our Vietnam 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 Vietnam, 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 Vietnam 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 Vietnam 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.
