Description

Living and working in Kathmandu is a fascinating experience. Volunteers get the chance to help out at a number of community run primary and secondary schools in and around Kathmandu itself, as well as in the famous and historical nearby centres at Patan and Bhaktapur. Amongst these are schools which have been established specifically for the benefits of street children and children from the poorest backgrounds, who otherwise would be deprived of any proper formal education.

Your role: Volunteers are expected to teach English and can incorporate other subjects according to their own areas of interest, including sport, music or drama. Children are aged between 4 and 16 and class sizes vary depending upon the school.

Resources are minimal and sufficient numbers of teachers are often lacking. Consequently, there is a great need for support and input from GapGuru volunteers who bring energy, English and fun to the schools. They compensate for deficiencies in basic resources and can make a real difference to the quality of the childrens education.

Previously, volunteers have found themselves involved a number of extra-curricular activities at their schools, as well as providing personal language tuition or teacher training for local staff.

The projects are well organised so that volunteers can make a good contribution in a relatively short amount of time. Pre-departure briefings and continuous support by the locally based manager helps with preparation and enables volunteers to maximise their contribution as well as their own enjoyment.

Highlights

This is fantastic opportunity to gain insights and experience of Nepalese schools and to make a difference to the education of genuinely needy and disadvantaged students. The physical conditions at the schools are often basic and it can be challenging to teach without much equipment! However, the children are eager to learn and volunteers comment on the rewarding and enjoyable experience of providing English language classes and interactive, fun-based learning activities for the children.

* Requirements/eligibility criteria:
* Energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.
* An interest in helping children with education.
* Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
* Empathy and understanding.
* Patience in dealing with children and staff who may not understand your language or accent.
* Proactive in relation to your work.
* Must be over 18 by the date of departure.
* Prior teaching experience is not essential. Enthusiasm, energy, resourcefulness and an open mind are crucial, however, as are an interest in education and an affinity for children. Volunteers should be prepared to immerse themselves in a new culture and a different way of life.

Living in the area [incl accommodation]: Living in Kathmandu offers a wide variety of sensual experiences. You can sample freshly cooked food from street vendors or international dishes at popular restaurants, and discover deserted wooden alleys or explore bustling market squares.

And for those who want to escape the buzz of the city, weekends offer the chance to head for the hills and mountains amongst the worlds highest peaks.

Volunteers usually live with local families, although there is a huge range of accommodation from simple guest houses to comfortable hotels according to personal preference.

Qualifications

There are no qualifications needed for this project. However, applicants should have an interest in teaching.

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please visit our website for more information

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

Cost includes pre-departure guidance and briefing, meet at airport and transfer to accommodation, in-country orientation and welcome pack, accommodation at local homestay, breakfast and dinner for duration of placement and full in-country support from our local coordinator.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

Age Range

18+

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Guest House
• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• In-Person Interview when Feasible
• Letters of Reference
• Online Application
• Phone/Video Interview

Post Services Include

• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

GapGuru's Mission Statement

GapGuru is a gap year specialist offering a wide range of exciting volunteer projects, travel programs and gap year internships across Asia, Africa, South America & Europe. We are committed to providing unique programs and unrivaled customer service that helps you to make the most of your gap year abroad.