The educational system in Kenya is currently in a period of transition following the government’s introduction of free primary education for all children in 2003. Although this reform is praiseworthy, it has placed a huge strain on already overcrowded schools. Most are now desperately short of teachers, and in many schools children are left sitting on their own, just waiting for a teacher to become available so that they can have the chance to learn. Volunteers, whether qualified teachers or not, can make a huge difference to the lives of these children. By becoming a volunteer teacher, you are giving yourself the chance to have a profound and lasting impact on the children you teach, as well as have an experience you will never forget.
The majority of your placement will be spent teaching conversational English. Fluency in the language is therefore the only prerequisite to participate in the program. If you would like to teach additional subjects, such as science, music or drama, just let us know and we will liaise with your school to make sure it is incorporated into your timetable. Don’t worry if you have no teaching experience, other teachers at the school will help you prepare the materials required for your lessons, as well as give you advice and tips about how to handle the different classes and age groups.
Beyond teaching, you can get involved in many other areas of the school. The choices will vary from placement to placement, but it’s up to you to get involved. You may decide to take on some administrative responsibilities, or help organise events, such as field trips or parent/teacher conferences. You can get involved with your school’s curriculum and educational policies. You may want to put on a play or a concert, or get involved during the games period. One ex-Tembeza volunteer even set up a football league, arranging matches between his school and others nearby. Although we leave it to you to decide your level of involvement, we encourage you to participate whenever you are given the chance. From experience we can safely say that the best way to ensure you have a fulfilling and rewarding experience, as well as be of most value to the school, is to take part in every way you can.

Location: Throughout Kenya Duration: 1 to 6 months Costs: from $1,295 Requirements: Fluency in English Project Brief: Teaching English is not only a great way to do something different while traveling, but also a way to really make a difference to people’s lives. Unlike most young Westerners, young Kenyans consider education a privilege, and our volunteers are always amazed at how warmly they are welcomed to the school and how eager the students are to learn.