In Peru, Projects Abroad is working alongside the Peruvian Ministry of Education on an on-going scheme to improve the English curriculum for schools in the Sacred Valley area. The aim is to make the curriculum more relevant for the children in these rural areas.
You will work alongside staff in local secondary schools. Local teachers are capable of providing students with written English tuition; however there is little opportunity to improve upon their conversational skills. As a volunteer you can provide effective, practical help with spoken and written English.
Be imaginative with your teaching to make learning enjoyable for the students and yourself! By introducing fun and interactive ways of learning you can improve the student’s enthusiasm and develop their confidence. Although your main role will be to teach English to the children, you can also plan and organise other activities such as sports, or arts and crafts.
The full volunteer support includes teaching resources, and you can bring your own resources from home, such as postcards and magazines. You'll also be able to see a full history of what has been taught previously in your schools, plus tips from past volunteers.
No experience or teaching qualifications are necessary – all that is required is a good level of spoken English and the enthusiasm to teach. However, if you do have a teaching background, your skills will be very welcomed. Some teachers have run special training sessions in their areas of expertise.
If you’re looking to volunteer in January or February then you could join the holiday teacher training programme.
Peruvian teachers only have a basic level of English; therefore the ability to speak some Spanish is beneficial but not essential.