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Brilliant 4.72rating (254)

Construction & Painting Support

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Renovate school facilities, including classrooms, playgrounds, and libraries.
  • Participate in hands-on construction activities like painting, carpentry, and landscaping.
  • Paint walls, draw educational murals, and assist with carpentry tasks.

Highlights

  • Renovate school facilities, including classrooms, playgrounds, and libraries.
  • Participate in hands-on construction activities like painting, carpentry, and landscaping.
  • Paint walls, draw educational murals, and assist with carpentry tasks.
  • Use your creativity to enhance the school’s surroundings with landscaping and design ideas.
  • Directly contribute to improving educational spaces for children.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    This project supports schools in and around Tarrafal by restoring and renovating their infrastructure to create better learning conditions for the students.

    This project is focused on improving school environments in Tarrafal by restoring and upgrading essential facilities. As a volunteer, you'll take part in a variety of renovation tasks such as painting classrooms, repairing playgrounds, building furniture, laying bricks, carpentry, landscaping, and ...

    About the program

    This project is focused on improving school environments in Tarrafal by restoring and upgrading essential facilities. As a volunteer, you'll take part in a variety of renovation tasks such as painting classrooms, repairing playgrounds, building furniture, laying bricks, carpentry, landscaping, and more. Beyond the practical work, there’s plenty of room to unleash your creativity and help beautify the school grounds.

    You’ll work closely with experienced local coordinators who will guide you throughout the process, providing support and sharing their knowledge. It’s a hands-on experience that allows you to make a real impact in the community while learning valuable practical skills.

    While the work can be physically demanding, it’s also rewarding and fun—with creative projects woven in along the way. Safety is essential, so always use tools responsibly and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance when needed.

    Program Highlights

    • Restore and upgrade school spaces including classrooms, libraries, and playgrounds.
    • Get involved in practical construction tasks like painting, landscaping, carpentry, and masonry.
    • Add creative elements to improve and personalize the school’s surroundings.
    • Work side-by-side with local coordinators and fellow volunteers.
    • Make a lasting contribution to education by enhancing learning environments for children.

    What You’ll Be Doing

    • Assist with repairing and renovating key school facilities.
    • Paint walls, create colourful educational murals, and help with basic carpentry.
    • Use your creativity to design and enhance outdoor areas through landscaping or decoration.
    • Collaborate daily with the local team and other volunteers to complete planned tasks.
    • Promote a safe, team-oriented work environment while contributing to meaningful community improvement projects.

     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. 


    Typical day

    Monday (first week)
    • Welcome, introduction to Cape Verdean traditions and culture, House rules, Code of Conduct and handling of documents
    • Basic Kriolu Lesson
    • Visit local supermarkets and ATMs, and explore the surroundings of our center.
    • Visit Mar De President Beach and spend some time on the beach before ...

    Typical day

    Monday (first week)
    • Welcome, introduction to Cape Verdean traditions and culture, House rules, Code of Conduct and handling of documents
    • Basic Kriolu Lesson
    • Visit local supermarkets and ATMs, and explore the surroundings of our center.
    • Visit Mar De President Beach and spend some time on the beach before returning to the center for dinner.
    • Overnight at Tarrafal Accommodation
    Tuesday to Friday - 4-5 hours per day
    • 8am: Start your day with on-site work at a local school. Tasks may include painting, repairing, carpentry, or landscaping.
    • Collaborate with local coordinators and your team to make progress on renovations.
    • 12pm: Take breaks for lunch and rest while reflecting on your contributions.
    • 1-2pm: Continue afternoon activities, focusing on creative and structural improvements.
    • 4-5pm: Return to your accommodation in Tarrafal for dinner and relaxation.
    • Overnight at Tarrafal Accommodation

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

    Starting Dates

    Free-time activities

    Things to Do in Tarrafal and Beyond

    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 ...

    Free-time activities

    Things to Do in Tarrafal and Beyond

    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 (basic 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 00:05 Sunday to 02:00 Monday.

    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 bringing 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 (3) 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 on Sunday. Please see pickup section for more info.

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

    Program Fees

    $762 per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 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
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    School Construction

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    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
    254
    reviews
    4.72
    Brilliant
    1989
    Founded

    Verified

      Very high response rate
    Spoken languages: English
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    Contact Lauren
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    English

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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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