Involvement Volunteers International The opportunity to volunteer teach abroad has become a inspiration for those looking to make a meaningful impact while exploring new cultures. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or someone with a passion for teaching and a heart for service, volunteering to teach abroad can be an immensely rewarding experience. Here’s why you should consider embarking on this adventure and how to make the most of it.
Why Volunteer Teaching Programs Abroad?
Cultural Exchange
Teaching in a foreign country immerses you in a different culture, providing a unique perspective on the world. You’ll learn about local customs, traditions, and ways of life, fostering mutual understanding and respect. This cultural exchange is a two-way street: while you impart knowledge and skills, you also gain invaluable insights and experiences that broaden your worldview.
Personal Growth
Living and working in a different environment pushes you out of your comfort zone, enhancing your adaptability, problem-solving skills, and resilience. You’ll develop a greater sense of empathy and a deeper appreciation for diversity. These experiences often lead to significant personal growth, helping you become a more well-rounded and open-minded individual.
Professional Development
For educators, volunteer teaching abroad offers a chance to hone teaching skills in a variety of settings and with diverse student populations. It’s an opportunity to experiment with different teaching methods and strategies, often with limited resources. This experience can significantly boost your resume, showcasing your ability to thrive in challenging environments and your commitment to making a difference.
Making a Difference
One of the most compelling reasons to volunteer teach abroad is the opportunity to make a tangible impact. Many communities around the world lack access to quality education, and your contribution can help bridge this gap. The relationships you build and the knowledge you share can leave a lasting legacy, empowering students and communities for years to come.
Top Volunteer Teaching programs with IVI
English Teaching Madagascar
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You will be teaching children from different age groups and with varying learning abilities. You are welcome to use your own teaching materials and encouraged to get creative. You can also use the course book as guide and help the children with their conversational and spoken English. During your volunteer project you can also teach other subjects such as mathematics, history, science, geography, computer, technologies, music and arts and crafts. Through fun, educational games you can help the kids with their personal development, environmental awareness and general health and safety.
Conversational English Exchange, Japan
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This program aims to provide locals with a platform to practice English on their own terms. Participants are available at the community house in the afternoons and early evenings. Local students often visit to study, work, or hang out for a few hours. This is your opportunity to ask them about life in Japan and answer their questions about your home country. Be patient and understanding if it takes them a while to form complete sentences. The more you converse, the better they will understand you, and the more they will enjoy talking to you, encouraging others to join.
Otaki village, a destination for local and foreign tourists, requires locals who interact with visitors to improve their conversational skills. You will meet and engage with them to help enhance their language abilities.
Buddhist Monasteries English Teaching Nepal
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Teach various subjects including English and have one on one English conversation class to the monks at the monasteries. You will also get a chance to learn about Buddhism while doing this. You will be teaching to novice monks, both adults and children! You will be staying either in the monastery or in an accommodation nearby, this will allow for fully immersing into the lifestyle of the monks!
We have access to various monasteries in different locations including Kathmandu, Pharping, Namobuddha, and Serlo – Everest region. Serlo monastery is the one furthest one which takes about 12 hours of jeep drive and stay overnight in Phaplu and then the next day of about 4 hours hike to the Serlo Monastery. Monastery in Namobuddha is about 4 hours drive from Kathmandu. Pharping is about 2 hours driving from Kathmandu.
English Teaching in Ella, Sri Lanka
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Kindergarten teaching
The first week of your program will include a week orientation in Kandy (this is compulsory). You will better learn about local culture, what to expect, do’s and don’ts, take part in cultural activities and see some local sights. This will better set you up and make it easier to integrate into your volunteering program.
During the 2nd week, onwards you will be taken to beautiful Ella, either by bus or train through the mountains and hills.
Support local teachers in educating young children aged between 2 and 5 years old. Your responsibilities will include teaching basic English and early childhood education, as well as assisting with school activities at pre-schools located in Ella during the day.
Additionally, you will be teaching basic English, basic grammar, and spoken English to children aged 3 to 15 who reside in tea estates during the afternoons.
Kindergarten Teaching Ubud, Bali
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Volunteer in local kindergartens in beautiful Ubud. Help and encourage children to learn and grow creatively, teaching language and communication skills and other primary skills. Over 15 kindergarten’s available. Teach children basic English in an informal and fun way!
Some of the centre’s offer free kindergarten education to several 4-5 year old children from poor villages. The local children are warm and affectionate and would rather spend time playing than learning! Kindergarten teaching in Bali like throughout the world is informal, and the children will want to play with you more than be ‘taught’ in a formal sense. This is one of our most popular programs!
Sports Teaching Coral Coast, Fiji
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As a sports coach, your primary duties include imparting relevant skills, tactics, and techniques to young athletes. You’ll introduce basic rules and regulations, coordinate game plans and events, monitor and enhance performances through encouragement, motivation, and constructive feedback, identify the sports development needs, strengths, and weaknesses of the children, and provide advice on health and lifestyle matters. Your role involves being an integral part of their journey towards future success.
To refine the skills and potential of young Fijian athletes, consider starting with fundamental skills and techniques, keeping in mind that they are just beginning their sporting journey.
How to Get Started
1. Research Programs
There are numerous teaching programs with IVI, based in all corners of the globe. Research thoroughly to find a program that aligns with your goals, values, and preferred destination. But really, you can’t go wrong as all our programs are so rewarding!
2. Prepare for the Journey
Once you’ve selected a program, it’s essential to prepare both practically and mentally. Learn about the country’s culture, language, and educational system. Understand the challenges you might face and develop strategies to overcome them. Packing the right materials, getting the necessary vaccinations, and securing travel insurance are also crucial steps.
3. Engage with the Community
Building strong relationships with your students, fellow teachers, and the local community is key to a successful volunteer teaching experience. Be open, respectful, and willing to learn. Engage in community activities and make an effort to understand the local context. This will help you connect better with your students and enhance the overall impact of your work.
4. Reflect and Share
After your volunteer teaching stint, take time to reflect on your experiences and the lessons learned. Share your stories and insights with others to inspire and inform future volunteers. Your experiences can provide valuable guidance and encouragement to those considering a similar path.
Conclusion
Volunteer teaching abroad is more than just an opportunity to travel; it’s a chance to make a lasting impact while growing both personally and professionally. By embracing the challenges and rewards of this unique experience, you can contribute to global education and foster a more connected and compassionate world. So, pack your bags, open your heart, and get ready for an adventure that will change your life and the lives of others.
