Teach English to children in Sri Lanka
Help is needed in teaching English to local children (including orphans) in the school of the Sisters of the Blessed Virgin in Gampola, Sri Lanka, and in caring for the basic needs of young children in the orphanage. Cost: One month approximately £1600, Three months approximately £2000. The total price includes air fares, visa, insurance, accommodation, meals and a donation towards the cost of Christians Abroad administration.
Gampola is in the hill country about 15km south of Kandy, and the town has around 25,000 residents. Accommodation and food are provided free of charge at this Catholic orphanage and school, so apart from spending money, the basic cost stays the same for the maximum three month placement as it would be for one month. Transport is provided from Colombo International Airport.
Volunteers do not have to be qualified teachers but preferably should be over 21 years old. This is a safe part of Sri Lanka, with many opportunities for visits to major historic and religious sites, for walking, climbing mountains and for relaxing on the beach.
Volunteers will need to be able to relate well to that community of nine women, and also be aware of cultural, religious and ethnic differences within Sri Lanka. English is spoken widely there. People are needed throughout the year, but in the school, volunteers are obviously preferred during term time. Work will involve one or more of the following: assisting in Montessori classes run by the sisters; helping with small children – bathing, dressing, feeding and some activities such as playing and singing; helping with some classes and outings (including church); teaching English to older girls, sisters and novices in the community; teaching computer skills; minding the phone 6.30 – 7.30 pm; and assisting with office work (letters, class lists, etc).
There is internet access in the town, local SIM cards are available for mobile phones, and incoming calls can be received at the convent. The sisters are happy to involve volunteers in community activities and this can be one of the enjoyable parts of the placement.
Country information: SRI LANKA - The High Commission of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka - http://www.slhclondon.org/
Could I be a Volunteer?
You could be a volunteer if you are:
resident in the UK (even if temporarily), mainland Europe, the USA or Canada
an effective communicator in English
willing to work within Christian communities and support their values and interests.
single, part of a couple or parent of a family.
Could possibly raise or can afford approximately £1500.
Christians Abroad will seek to match your circumstances with opportunity
What work would I do?
As a volunteer you might work with
Poor communities in Eastern Europe, Latin or Central America, Caribbean, Africa, Asia, Middle East, Pacific
Not for profit organisations such as schools, community projects and hospitals.
Projects supported by local Christian communities.
Your age, qualificaiton, skills and experience will be matched with the work that you can do.
How do I apply?
Read 'HOW IT WORKS' to understand what is expected of you and what might be expected of Christians Abroad and your placement.
Complete the APPLICATION FORM electronically and send it to recruit@cabroad.org.uk.
You will be contacted by telephone or e-mail in the first instance.