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Teach at Schools in Disadvantaged Communities, South Africa
Teach at local community schools in and around Knysna, South Africa, in this volunteer project. Support the development of kids by teaching them English, Natural Science, Maths, Dance, Music, Sports, and other subjects. You could also assist with reading groups in school libraries or special needs activities. We have placements at township schools, which have large classes and basic facilities. T...
Teach at local community schools in and around Knysna, South Africa, in this volunteer project. Support the development of kids by teaching them English, Natural Science, Maths, Dance, Music, Sports, and other subjects. You could also assist with reading groups in school libraries or special needs activities. We have placements at township schools, which have large classes and basic facilities. Therefore, the teachers greatly appreciate any help in managing a huge number of students. Your ideas are always welcome to improve a variety of areas: foundation phase little ones, Physical Education, English teaching, Mathematics, and others. This project is available during South African school terms, between mid-January to early December. Start days are from Monday to Friday, and the minimum l...
Program Highlights
Assist with a range of activities, from teaching English to supporting small reading groups, depending on your skills and the grades of the classes.
Come up with interesting alternative ideas for sports and physical education lessons; help put together lesson plans for Life Orientation classes.
Share your love for and talent in the creative arts – drama, dance, and music – and inspire young learners; help out with choir practice and even assist the teachers in playing the piano.
Make a lasting, positive difference in the lives of South African children through fun activities.
Visit animal sanctuaries, take part in extreme sports activities, visit local craft markets, hike magical forests, or enjoy beautiful beaches in your free time.
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Quick Details
- Knynsa, South Africa
- 2-4 Weeks
- 5-8 Weeks
- 9-12 Weeks
- Summer
- Childcare & Children
- Drama
- Education
- English Teaching
- Music
- See more
- All Nationalities
Program Reviews
Hear what past participants have to say about the programs
Overall Rating
Total Reviews
The best experience!
by: Catherine Green - United KingdomProgram: Teach at Schools in Disadvantaged Communities, South AfricaWe were a group of 20+. The trip was so well organised, from the volunteering activities to the excursions, being able to meet up with local groups. We had a lot of fun. And I know some of our group are planning to go back on individual trips. Brilliant experience.
An experience I will never forget! love SA
by: Tanja Janssens - South AfricaProgram: Teach at Schools in Disadvantaged Communities, South AfricaI loved my time in South Africa. It has taught me so much and I received so much love on this trip. I am very grateful to meet these people and it was one of the most inspirational adventures I’ve been on! Love auntie Sharon and her fiance, the people of SA and all the animals.
Incredible experience as a high schooler
by: Abigail Nordan - United StatesProgram: Teach at Schools in Disadvantaged Communities, South AfricaI went alone to Knysna, South Africa the summer after my sophomore year (age 16) and had the most remarkable experience of my life. I taught Music and English at Chris Nissen Primary School. Arriving in Knysna was overwhelming at first -- the other volunteers were all much older than me, and there was a lot to learn quickly. However, I received the best orientation I could ask for and after my first week I knew my way around town -- to all the grocery stores, cafes, and spots to eat. I also knew the best/safest taxi services which were very useful! Teaching in the schools was an incredible experience. I taught seven classes of 30+ students, and there was definitely a learning curve. I took initiative and did some really great work -- in my English classes, I read Harry Potter to the students in small pieces and then we broke down vocab words, plot, characters, and setting. In my music classes, I focused on my background, which is choral music. The students and I exchanged pieces that forged our various cultural knowledge -- I, the spirituals and protest music of America's Civil Rights Era, and them, music associated with the Soweto Youth Riots of 1976. On the weekends the other volunteers went on the best excursions, everything from a spa treatment to a day in a wildlife reserve. I saw elephants, rhinos, lions, and monkeys all in 100% natural, free-range habitats up close. Sharon and the school I volunteered at were also could not have been more understanding any time I had any issues. For example, when I arrived I was quite sick, so I stayed home an extra day before volunteering so that I could rest up and get acclimated to the new environment. Toward the end of my stay I got food poisoning (not sure how), which was a nasty 24 hours, but I got vitamin C tablets and rested and was fine the next day. Essentially, while the environment volunteering is rigorous and will get you out of your comfort zone, at no point do you have to worry about doing anything you are not comfortable with. I feel extremely lucky that, at such a young age, I was in such a caring environment on my first ever volunteer trip. I cannot recommend this program enough!

Thank you so much for your lovely review Abbie
Program Details
Learn all the nitty gritty details you need to know
Locations
- Knynsa, South Africa
Types and Subjects
- Causes
- Childcare & Children
- Drama
- Education
Availability
Years Offered: 2021, 2022, 2023, Year Round, 2024, 2025, 2026
- 2-4 Weeks
- 5-8 Weeks
- 9-12 Weeks
Age Requirement
Age Requirement Varies
Guidelines
- All Nationalities
- This Program is also open to Solo, Couples, Families, Group
Cost per week
Program Cost Includes
- Accommodation / Housing for Program Duration
- Some Program Activity Costs
- Wifi Costs
- Weekday Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation Options
- Apartment/Flat
Qualifications & Experience
Any/All Education Levels Accepted
Application Procedures
- Online Application
- Disciplinary Clearance Form
- Resume
- Other
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