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Description
We believe that change comes from within, to change the future of Cambodia we must start by educating the youngest generation.
The school is operated by a local man, Yin Sopheap, who founded the school with a simple vision: to give children in rural Cambodia an opportunity for an international standard education. We believe that financial status should not dictate the quality of education a child can receive so we aim to provide quality, affordable schooling from kindergarten - grade 12. We have plans to open more campuses across North-East Cambodia in areas that have been largely neglected because of their remote location.
Primarily we are looking for English teachers. However, we aim to give our students a holistic education, not just an academic one. If you have any skills or training in music, art, permaculture, physical education, IT, web design, media and communications, marketing etc. we would love to hear from you!
Our original school in Banlung (Ratanakiri) was founded 15 years ago and now has almost 3000 students. Banlung is a particularly beautiful part of Cambodia. Our school has an excellent view of the surrounding hills and forests. There are several scenic waterfalls in the immediate area.
In April 2017 we opened a second campus in neighbouring province, Steung Treng which only operates as a primary school at the moment with just under 800 students but as our students grow, so will we. Steung Treng is nestled where the Sekong and Mekong rivers meet, giving you the chance to see the famous Irrawaddy dolphins and unforgettable sunsets over the river.
In September 2022, our third campuse has been launched in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. With this new campus, we expect to mobilize both human and financial resources to support our existing schools in Banlung and Stuen Treng, and other schools where we are going to operate in the future. At the moment we have hundreds of students, and plan to have over a thousand. For the new starting point, we really need experienced teachers, especially for the primary school.
The school is non-denominational but maintains a strong emphasis on producing students with discipline, respect and a genuine care for the people and world around them. The schools are professionally managed by teams of mostly Khmer staff, however, the key focus of the schools is English language proficiency, which is where you come in.
Unfortunately, many of our Khmer teachers, although dedicated and hard-working, have only a basic knowledge of English and struggle with much of the pronunciation which makes it difficult for our students to master the language themselves.
Volunteers will work with local Khmer teachers to improve their English and teaching skills in general. This way you are not taking jobs from local people, instead, you’re able to have a positive impact that will last long after you leave us.
Our school is a family. You will work very closely with our Khmer staff and as such you will learn a great deal about Khmer culture and try many of our traditional meals during the many ‘family’ dinners we have or with the kids at the school canteen.
We run morning, afternoon and evening classes, we only ask you to teach 2 classes, Monday-Friday. In return, you will be provided with accommodation and meals from our school canteen or a food allowance. We will also provide you with a bicycle to let you move around during your free time.
Our students are our main priority so we require teachers to stay for a minimum of 6 months as shorter stays are detrimental to our students development and learning.
If you want a chance to get off the tourist track and help communities that would otherwise be neglected, this is for you.Types of help and learning opportunities
Art ProjectsLanguage practiceTeachingGardeningHelp with Computers/ InternetCultural exchange and learning opportunities
With us, you have a chance to see how the real people of Cambodia live, away from the western, touristic influence. You will be exposed to much of our indigenous culture as Banlung has a largely indigenous population.
We encourage the sharing of ideas among our local and international staff so you will leave us with a wealth of knowledge about our beliefs and attitudes to life.
Our staff and volunteers will make every effort to make your stay here a happy one, and you will no doubt have countless invitations for home visits, weddings, and any other ceremony or event.Projects involving children
This project could involve children. For more information see our guidelines and tips here.
Help
Although we are looking for English speakers, you do not need to be a native speaker to volunteer with us. TEFL qualifications are prefered but not required.
Languages spoken
English: Fluent
Khmer: Fluent
Chinese (Cantonese): FluentAccommodation
You'll live with both our international volunteers and Khmer staff, so you'll be exposed to our way of life as well as always having good company around!
Banlung:
You will be provided with a one bedroom apartment, including a bathroom, kitchen, balcony and backyard. The apartment is small, but very convenient and is located a short distance away from the school
Steung Treng:
You will have a bedroom and bathroom to yourself either on school grounds or at our partner guesthouse (Savet), which is a 10 minute walk from school. If you stay on school grounds you will share a kitchen with our Khmer staff.What else ...
Banlung is one of the most beautiful landscapes in Cambodia that is usually ignored by tourists because of its remote location. However, by staying with us, you will be able to properly explore the area with the help of our Khmer staff who are always happy to assist you with their local knowledge. There's lots of trekking options as well as waterfalls and indigenous villages you can visit to see the historical farming techniques and crafts.
Steung Treng enjoys beautiful river views from the point where 4 rivers all come together. During the day you can bike ride along the river and relax in a hammock at our favourite lunch spot. At night, try our local dishes from restaurants along the rivers edge while watching the incredible Mekong sunsets, keeping an eye out for the famous Irrawaddy dolphins.
Phnom Penh, is the capital of Cambodia with cultural, economic, and social activities are growing fast to the development of the country. There are many things that you can explore with tourism such us, four rivers crossed, museum, traditional and modernized markets, royal palace, beautiful street foods, and many others that you can visit and taste.
Both schools have a football (soccer) team for staff and teachers that you're welcome to join if you like. There are also many gyms and sport clubs in the areas.
In Cambodia we love to party! We have many public holidays and causes for celebration. Visiting another province for a weekend getaway is easy using local minivans that our Khmer staff can help you to organise very cheaply.A little more information
Internet access
Limited internet access
We have pets
We are smokers
Can host families
How many Workawayers can stay?
More than two
Hours expected
Maximum 4-5 hours a day, 5 days a week
Feedback (7)
It was a really great experience, I had my own room and enough to sustain all my needs in the town. I met Andrea, a nice and pretty Spanish girl volunteering with me in the same time. It was really great to have somebody to exchange with. Thanks you Andrea !
The… read more
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It was a really great experience, I had my own room and enough to sustain all my needs in the town. I met Andrea, a nice and pretty Spanish girl volunteering with me in the same time. It was really great to have somebody to exchange with. Thanks you Andrea !
The… read more
The school is not a corporation, rather it is a social enterprise. All profits from the school are spent on the school and on scholarships. In addition, the fees parents are charged are very low, much lower than standard.
Volunteering at this school is a truly rewarding experience. I am grateful… read more