Login

Select travel dates to see prices

Brilliant 4.72rating (254)
  • Quality Education

Childcare and Education Assistant

location
4 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Work with children aged 2 to 6 years, supporting their learning and development.
  • Help children develop social skills, motor skills, and cognitive abilities.
  • Get creative through painting, drawing, crafts and anything else you can think of!

Highlights

  • Work with children aged 2 to 6 years, supporting their learning and development.
  • Help children develop social skills, motor skills, and cognitive abilities.
  • Get creative through painting, drawing, crafts and anything else you can think of!
  • Teach basic English in a fun and informal way that the kids will enjoy.
  • Bring along your creativity and enthusiasm to inspire the students.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    You will provide education, assistance, and childcare during the day to young children between the ages of 2 and 6 years old, located in Tarrafal.

    This program gives you the chance to support early childhood education and care for children aged 2 to 6 years. You’ll work in settings such as daycare centres, kindergartens, or early primary school classrooms. Many of the children come from families with limited financial means, where parents ...

    About the program

    This program gives you the chance to support early childhood education and care for children aged 2 to 6 years. You’ll work in settings such as daycare centres, kindergartens, or early primary school classrooms. Many of the children come from families with limited financial means, where parents work long hours in low-income jobs and depend on childcare services during the day.

    Program Highlights

    • Support the growth and development of children aged 2 to 6 years.
    • Assist with basic English lessons using fun and interactive methods.
    • Help children build essential social, motor, and cognitive skills.
    • Gain hands-on experience in childcare while working alongside local teachers.
    • Play an active role in creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment.

    Your Role

    • Support local teachers with daily classroom routines and activities.
    • Provide care and encouragement to help children learn and thrive.
    • Plan and lead creative, educational games and activities.
    • Help ensure a safe, supportive space for learning and play.
    • Keep a simple record of lessons and activities.
    • Prepare a smooth handover for the next volunteer to continue the work effectively.
    You can work alongside the local teacher and also take small groups of children for smaller group activities. You do not need to bring anything form home but donations of reading books, skipping ropes, stickers, etc are all welcome. 

    Location

    Tarrafal is a small, laid-back town located on the northern coast of Santiago Island, the largest island in Cape Verde. Known for its beautiful crescent-shaped beach, clear turquoise waters, and surrounding mountains, Tarrafal is a hidden gem that offers a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots. The town has a friendly local vibe, with colourful markets, small cafes, and a strong sense of community. It’s also a place of historical importance, home to the Tarrafal Concentration Camp museum, a reminder of Cape Verde’s colonial past.

    Project Tasks
    • Unique opportunity to interact with the children in building a global community for future generations of stakeholders in addressing various global challenges.
    • Prepare children for their future careers with the addition of character development, literacy and numeracy and a global perspective from participants from all over the world.
    • Meaningful learning experiences for both the participants and the community children.

    Typical day

    Monday (first week)
    • Kick off your week with a warm welcome and an engaging introduction to Cape Verdean culture, traditions, and the local community.
    • Get acquainted with the program’s guidelines to ensure a smooth and respectful experience.
    • Learn the basics of Kriolu, the local language, and enhance ...

    Typical day

    Monday (first week)
    • Kick off your week with a warm welcome and an engaging introduction to Cape Verdean culture, traditions, and the local community.
    • Get acquainted with the program’s guidelines to ensure a smooth and respectful experience.
    • Learn the basics of Kriolu, the local language, and enhance your communication with the children and community.
    • Visit local supermarkets and ATMs to get familiar with the surroundings, followed by an exploration of the vibrant neighborhood.
    • Unwind and soak in the beauty of Mar De President Beach, enjoy the scenery, and embrace the local culture.
    Tuesday to Friday - 3-5 hours per day
    • Morning: Start each day by supporting the local teachers with childcare and education activities. Help the children learn through fun and interactive lessons, including games, songs, and stories to teach basic English.
    • Afternoon: Continue with caretaking and teaching activities, guiding the children in creative and educational tasks. You’ll also assist with lesson planning and preparing teaching materials for the next day, contributing to the classroom experience.
    • Evening: After a rewarding day, relax and reflect on your contributions to the children’s development, knowing you’ve made a lasting impact.

    This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.

    Free-time activities

    Things to Do in Tarrafal (Santiago Island):

    • Tarrafal Beach – One of Cape Verde’s best beaches, with white sand, palm trees, and calm, crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and relaxing.
    • Tarrafal Concentration Camp – A haunting but important historical site where political prisoners were ...

    Free-time activities

    Things to Do in Tarrafal (Santiago Island):

    • Tarrafal Beach – One of Cape Verde’s best beaches, with white sand, palm trees, and calm, crystal-clear water ideal for swimming and relaxing.
    • Tarrafal Concentration Camp – A haunting but important historical site where political prisoners were once held during Portugal’s colonial rule.
    • Hike Monte Graciosa – A scenic climb with panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding countryside. Great for nature lovers and photographers.
    • Snorkelling and Water Sports – The calm bay in Tarrafal is perfect for snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. You might spot tropical fish or even a sea turtle.
    • Local Market – Visit the lively open-air market for fresh produce, handmade goods, and local snacks. It’s a great place to interact with locals and practice some Creole.

    Things to Do Beyond Tarrafal:

    • Cidade Velha (Old City) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the first European colonial outpost in the tropics. Explore old churches, forts, and cobbled streets.
    • Serra Malagueta Natural Park – Located between Assomada and Tarrafal, this park offers hiking trails through lush forests, native plant species, and breathtaking viewpoints.
    • Praia – The bustling capital city offers cultural experiences, local eateries, museums, nightlife, and craft markets. Great for a weekend visit.
    • Fogo Island & Pico do Fogo – Climb an active volcano, walk through black lava fields, and explore the charming town of Chã das Caldeiras nestled within the crater.
    • Boa Vista & Sal – Famous for long beaches, sand dunes, kite surfing, and all-inclusive resorts. Great for relaxation or weekend getaways.
    • Santo Antão – A must for hikers. The island features jaw-dropping mountain valleys, green terraces, and stone villages that feel untouched by time.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (intermediate level)

    Education Requirements

    at high school level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    • Accommodation
    • 3 meals p/day & 2 p/day at weekends
    • Arrival airport transfer (Sat/Sun arrivals)
    • Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea
    • 1 day orientation
    • Daily transportation to project
    • In country 24/7 support & emergency assistance
    • Fundraising support
    • University course credits (where applicable)
    • Certificate of Completion

    Airport Pickup at Nelson Mandela International Airport

    Programs begin every Monday, and volunteers are required to arrive the day prior, for orientation before the project. Your accommodation on the Sunday is included in the program fees.

    A free airport pickup is included when arriving to Praia International Airport (RAI). You must arrive between Sunday 00:05 to Monday 02:00.

    If arriving outside the pickup times on Sunday, you can book a private transfer and any extra nights for an additional fee.

    Alternatively, if arriving early you could wait at the arrival’s terminal for the pickup time, book accommodation at the airport and meet us during the pickup times or make your own way to the project (we will advise on how to do this). 

    From the airport to the accommodation, it takes 1.15 to 1.5 hours by road.

    Accommodation

    During your stay, you’ll be living in a fully equipped house that offers a comfortable and welcoming home base. Rooms are shared between 4-8 people (single gender) and include fans and bed linen. The bathroom is shared and features Western-style toilets. The accommodation has hot showers, Wifi and lockable rooms, but no safety box or laundry facilities. We suggest a padlock for your bag in the room. You may be able to get your laundry done in town.

    There are ATMs, mini marts, some shops and restaurants available in the city center. There will be plenty of chances to explore the town, including its stunning clear-water beaches, and to join activities and programs with other volunteers—making for a fun and social experience.


    Food & Beverages

    Every day of the program, three good meals are provided, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with the exception of weekends, which only include brunch and dinner. The food will primarily contain a mix of local and various types of Western food.

    In addition, meals will, be served in accordance with your dietary needs. Please let us know in advance if any special requirements.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Nelson Mandela International Airport (RAI) in Praia. We assist you to find cheap flights to Cape Verde. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Cape Verde provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Cape Verde you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Cape Verde. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Arrivals are on Sundays. Please see the pickup section for more info.

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $446 per week 4 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    4 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.

    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet
    4.7
    Top Pick
    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers
    •
    2025
    I supported a loving team with daily tasks such as keeping the enclosures clean, shredding antelopes and feeding the kittens. Comments on ...
    •
    2025
    Very well organised, had no problem checking in. The work was so nice and the people were wonderful. Staff is also there to help out with ...
    Sarah Damaschin

    School Construction

    Location

    Africa > Western Africa > Cape Verde > Tarrafal

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    254
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
    Travel safely by using Volunteer World for your communication and bookings. This way, you can benefit from the Flex Option, Refund Guarantee, and Resolution Support.

    You might also be interested in

    Volunteer Abroad  >  Community  >  Childcare in Cape Verde
    Contact Lauren
      Very high response rate
    English

    Most volunteers ask about

    Do you have any more questions? Send a message to Lauren
    Please don't share personal contact details for your privacy

    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

    Book with Flex Option!

    Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs within 12 months.

    Complete Support for Every Volunteer

    This helps us run our platform and offer essential services like Comprehensive Support, Refund Guarantee, Flex Option without rebooking costs, and Price-Guarantee. This includes VAT.

    Price details