Description

Due to a turbulent past and years of devastation, much of Cambodia's population hasn't had the opportunity to receive a formal education. However, since peace has been restored many Cambodians have better access to schooling and the government is encouraging education for both girls and boys. Due to the recent upturn in tourism and international trade, there is great enthusiasm to learn foreign languages; thus, a good grasp of English means access to better jobs and ultimately a better future.

Projects Abroad works to improve the lives of some of the most neglected children in Cambodia who live in orphanages or attend charity schools. The number of orphans and abandoned children in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap is very high and the orphanages that do exist are overcrowded, understaffed and poorly resourced. Due to the difficulties associated with sending these children to school, the kids often receive their education at the orphanage. It is here and in the charity funded schools where Projects Abroad volunteers work that teaching English can really make a difference. Volunteers can also choose to teach in the village school on Koh Rong Samleom island where our conservation project is based.

Teaching English in Cambodia is an ideal way to gain some truly rewarding volunteer experience. You don't need any formal teaching qualifications or a TEFL certificate nor do we require any previous teaching experience. Whether you want to volunteer during your gap year, career break or as part of an extended vacation, you will have a role to play and will be needed in Cambodia.

The impact you have on the lives of the children with whom you work will be long lasting. Overall, you will also be part of a much wider volunteer network that is working towards making a really positive contribution in the local community.

Teaching in the bustling cities of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap will open your eyes to the mix of great prosperity and poverty in these vibrant cities. All our placements are based in and around the cities and you will teach children from about 5-16 years old.

Volunteering to teach English in orphanages will give you the chance to help children improve their future prospects. You'll teach free English lessons in the orphanage classroom and many volunteers choose to spend time with the children outside of school hours. If you'd like to work more hours, you could always help with many of the duties and activities the orphanage needs. Please see our Care in Cambodia page for more information.

Classes are normally small with about ten to twenty children per class. The limited size allows you to give personal attention to each child. Due to the shortage of teachers, you'll normally have your lessons alone without a teaching assistant, but there will be other staff around to help or translate if needed. The staff themselves will also benefit from practicing their English with a native speaker.

If you are interested in getting out of the city then you may like to consider teaching in the village school on the tropical island of Koh Rong Samleom where our Conservation Project is based. You could combine Teaching and Conservation by working here. The school has very limited resources and has just two classrooms with children aged from about 4 to 16 split between them. Volunteers have a great deal of freedom here to teach English and other subjects like sports, arts & crafts or drama. Please let us know if you're interested in this option when you apply.

Highlights

Whatever skills and talents you have, teaching in Cambodia will give you the opportunity to put them to good use. Be imaginative with your teaching to make learning fun and enjoyable. Through the use of materials, games and songs you can engage the children and make them eager to learn. There are also opportunities for volunteers to get involved with teaching other subjects, especially music and dance, since a number of orphanages and charity schools support themselves by putting on traditional dance shows to generate vital funds. Getting involved teaching French is also an option.

The ability to speak English will help improve the futures of the children. You will teach younger kids the basics while helping older students polish their skills and enhance their confidence. The attention and time you give them is of enormous benefit and we hope that you will take time to prepare and structure lessons. Being prepared will give you confidence and ensure that both you and your students get the most out of your volunteering experience in Cambodia.

Qualifications

none

Languages

• English
• French

Cost in US$:

Please go to our website for prices.

Cost Includes:

• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Medical services
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Registration fees
• Travel while in host country
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Program Fees Include:

The price of each placement includes all your food and accommodation, transfers to and from the airport, full travel and medical insurance plus support and 24 hour back-up from our staff based around the world.

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Childcare/children
• Education
• Health Education
• Teaching

Typical Volunteer

Projects Abroad volunteers are open minded with a desire to travel and help out.

Age Range

16-80

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Apartment/Flat
• Group living

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Written Application

Typically The Application Process Time is

10 days

Post Services Include

• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement

As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded

1992