Teach English. Protect a Rainforest. Change a Trajectory.

Classes are aimed at children in the villages surrounding Phnom Samkos Wildlife Sanctuary, generally primary and lower-secondary age. Exact age ranges vary by village depending on who's able to attend — some communities also see interest from teenagers and young adults looking to build trade or ecotourism-relevant English.

No formal certification is required. This is grassroots, community-based teaching rather than an accredited school posting, so GSO prioritizes patience, consistency, and genuine commitment to the community over formal credentials. That said, prior teaching or TEFL experience is a plus and may be weighed in placement.

Most students are starting from little to no prior English instruction, though this varies by village — some communities have had past exposure through GSO's earlier work (like the English lessons run in Kampong Chhnang and the Srey Prey/Chankiek placements) or through other NGO partners. Expect to teach foundational, conversational English rather than building on an existing curriculum.

GSO's focus is conversational, practical English — communication skills over rote grammar. There's a curriculum framework to build from, but teachers are expected to adapt lessons to their students' level and to village conditions (limited materials, no reliable power, mixed-age classrooms)

This is a tuition-free program for the children and villagers, meaning GSO does not charge families. We are building the relationship through practical cross cultural exchange, such as teaching English while planting saplings, collecting trash, hiking together to the village waterfall.