Volunteer English Program
Vietnam's borders remain closed to international arrivals so this program can't get the assistance it needs right now.
The aim of this fantastic teaching program in Vietnam is to provide an English language speaking environment for disadvantaged youth in order to develop their English communicative skills. Many of the students have moved to Hanoi from the provinces and in these cases their parents may have unstable work and incomes. This instability means many of the children are behind in their schooling and desperately need extra help. The teaching programs are based in either a Vietnamese school, community center, shelter for children living on the street, or center for vocational training. The program caters to pupils of both primary and secondary school age so it is important that volunteers are willing to work with a wide age range. The volunteer’s role is to support the provision of English in institutions where under-staffing and skills shortages are an issue. Teaching qualifications and experience are welcome, but are not a requirement. It is important that volunteers have great time management skills, show confidence in a classroom setting, are able to use their initiative and come up with creative lesson plans. As is common in many of the world’s poorer communities, an ability to speak English unlocks a new world of possibilities – in education and in job opportunities, as well as opening themselves up to learning more about the world.
Goals of this Project:
- Provide free English language classes to disadvantaged Vietnamese children and youth
- Improve the future prospects of some of Vietnam’s most impoverished children, and help them to break the poverty cycle
- Expose non-English speakers to native English speakers in order to improve pronunciation and conversational skills
- Enable inter-cultural exchange which benefits both residents and international volunteers alike.
How You Can Help
Volunteers play an integral role in achieving the goals of this project. They contribute to developing the children's English vocabulary and building on their writing and speaking skills. The local teachers are very thankful for the support from volunteers who can assist with classroom management, educational activities and games. There will also be some time set aside for volunteers to create their own lesson plans and manage classes with the assistance of a Vietnamese volunteer who can provide translations. For those planning their own lessons, learning material will be provided and the local teachers will be available to provide advice and support. Volunteers will find that teaching English is an extremely important and rewarding role to play in this developing nation. The students will gain so much from being taught English from native speakers and will take these skills to advance their lives for the better.
Volunteers on this project provide a valid and effective means of English language tuition. They will contribute in a number of ways and can expect to undertake the following tasks:
- Teach English to children and youth in schools, vocational training courses and community centers
- Create lessons and design games to teach English, especially for the younger children
- Network with local residents and local project staff
Requirements
Love Volunteers welcomes all those 18 years and over who wish to help create a brighter future for children through the power of education. This project best suits those with experience and/or qualifications in the field of childhood development and education, though volunteers who simply wish to explore an interest in this field are also welcomed as there are many ways you can assist in the classroom. Whist not mandatory, completing a TEFL course prior to joining this project would prove to be highly beneficial. Ideally, volunteers on this project will have at least a basic knowledge of the local language in order to communicate effectively with staff and students, though this is not a pre-requisite. Importantly, all applicants must first and foremost have a genuine willingness to help, show drive and initiative, and bring a positive 'can-do' attitude. If this sounds like you, we want you on the team!
Additionally, volunteers applying to join this program will be required to supply to following documentation:
- Emergency contact
- Passport
- Police check
- Resume
Project Location
Volunteers participating on this rewarding program have the privilege of doing so in enchanting Ha Noi. Leaving the crippling effects of war and seclusion in the past the city is speeding into the 21st Century as fast a scooter down the main streets (pedestrians beware!).
French influences remain from the colonial past but the city is stamping out a future all its own in authentic style. Visitors gain a true appreciation of Vietnamese courage and resilience through the juxtaposition of old and new in this city. Time spent here is rewarding for intrepid travellers and first timers alike.
Start Dates & Duration
This project is available year-round and programs start every WEDNESDAY. Volunteers can choose to participate for periods ranging from 2 weeks to 12 weeks. Longer stays can be arranged directly with the local team, but will be subject to availability and individual visa conditions.
Spaces on this project are limited and therefore subject to availability. Early booking is recommended.
For current available start dates please check the calendar on the right.
Arrival & Orientation
Volunteers are met on arrival into Hanoi and taken to the volunteer house where they can meet with their hosts and fellow volunteers. The following day (Thursday) an orientation session is held to introduce volunteers to the programs and their new environment. Volunteering proper begins on Friday and weekends are free to relax and explore.
- Arrival Day: WEDNESDAY
- Departure Day: WEDNESDAY
- Arrival Airport: Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, Vietnam (Code: HAN)
Accommodation & Meals
Volunteers on this wonderful program are accommodated in a Volunteer House in the quiet and peaceful area of Cau Giay in central Hanoi, conveniently located close to public bus connections and shops.
The traditional 5-level house has 6 bedrooms rooms located over 3 floors with 4 – 6 volunteers per room. Each floor has its own bathroom with western style facilities and hot showers. Fans and air-conditioning are available for comfort during the summer months and bed linen is provided so volunteers need only bring personal toiletries and towels. Easy!
The House is equipped with kitchen and laundry facilities and WiFi is available free of charge. Volunteers can enjoy the communal area within the house or the rooftop terrace for relaxing and socializing. A great way to spend time in this historical city!
Volunteers in Hanoi are provided with 3 meals per day at the Volunteer House and the food is varied and delicious. Volunteers are also welcome to explore the city and eat out at the many local restaurants and cafes serving traditional and international fare.
Vietnamese food focuses on fresh ingredients – especially fruit, herbs and vegetables. The famous noodle broth (pho) is a must try and sticky rice is another staple.
Please note that all meals provided in the volunteer house are included in the program fees. When eating out it is the volunteer’s responsibility to cover the costs.
Private rooms cannot be arranged at the Volunteer House.
Fees
That’s just USD 32 per day* for:
*In addition to the program fees listed above a Registration Fee is payable to secure your place. The registration fee is USD 299 for those volunteering with Love Volunteers for the first time or USD 149 for any subsequent volunteer placements. The registration fee includes: lifetime LV Alumni Membership, fundraising support & advice, dedicated pre-departure support, certificate of completion (on request), and exclusive access to the LV Trip Planner.
Some things are not included in the program fees listed above, such as flights, visas, vaccinations, travel insurance, additional foods and snacks, spending money, local transport, in-country trips and excursions, return airport transfer (unless mentioned above).
Please note that prices are subject to change without notice. Please ensure you have read the Love Volunteers Terms and Conditions & Refund Policy.