The day starts early in rural Thailand, with roosters announcing the procession of village monks on their early morning alms round. Storefronts rumble open and a wave of students in uniform strike out for school.

Traditionally, there are three pillars of life in Thailand: the home, the temple and the school. These are most clearly expressed in rural Thailand, where traditional values prevail. With this in mind, volunteer English teachers in the Thai countryside contribute to one of most important pillars of Thai society.

The Friends for Asia rural schools project offers a candid view of daily life in Thailand. Ideal candidates will be keen on getting an inside perspective on a side of the kingdom that tourists and volunteers in bigger cities rarely encounter. Volunteers on this project are a world away from the expat hangouts, international restaurants and Internet cafés of downtown Chiang Mai. While this presents fantastic opportunities to hang out with locals, visit rural temple fairs and take part in cultural community events, it also requires flexibility, patience and a strong sense of independence.

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