Login

Select travel dates to see prices

Outstanding 4.98rating (8)
  • Quality Education

Stepping Stones Primary, & Nursery School

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

Highlights

  • 50% fee paying and 50% scholarship ensures a diverse student body & educational opportunities for those who would not normally have access to a high standard of education.
  • Our school is expanding, and we always need volunteers to help us in many ways: teacher training, English practice, additional support for students, sports, arts and crafts, IT support and more!
  • You can also get involved in supporting the wider community, at our community library and IT centre, study clubs with solar lighting, & a mixture of engaging & hands on vocational training courses.

Highlights

  • 50% fee paying and 50% scholarship ensures a diverse student body & educational opportunities for those who would not normally have access to a high standard of education.
  • Our school is expanding, and we always need volunteers to help us in many ways: teacher training, English practice, additional support for students, sports, arts and crafts, IT support and more!
  • You can also get involved in supporting the wider community, at our community library and IT centre, study clubs with solar lighting, & a mixture of engaging & hands on vocational training courses.
  • We also run a thriving nursery school class of 30. Many of these children come from homes of deprivation, some orphaned, but all will benefit from our interactive and inclusive nursery school!
  • Did you know that primary school & early years education is recognised as a primary factor in reducing poverty, helping to advance economic and agricultural productivity for developing countries?
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    A thriving & inclusive nursery, primary, vocational centre, community library, IT & resource centre. This inspiring school provides a space for all ages & abilities.

    Opened in 2016, Stepping Stones International Primary School is unique in Nkhata Bay and is based on a belief in the diverse talents of each child and we expect hard work, kindness, and excellence from them in return. Stepping Stones provides rigorous academic training, a high standard of education ...

    About the program

    Opened in 2016, Stepping Stones International Primary School is unique in Nkhata Bay and is based on a belief in the diverse talents of each child and we expect hard work, kindness, and excellence from them in return. Stepping Stones provides rigorous academic training, a high standard of education and culturally responsive programming. Children from disadvantaged circumstances learn alongside more economically privileged peers, and learn together with the support of our international volunteers and talented Malawian teachers. The curriculum is a combined English and Malawian, and reflects principles of a holistic education: art, sport, music, drama, agriculture, field trips, community involvement, etc.
    The student body at Stepping Stones is half fee paying and half non-fee paying or sponsored students. In other words, for every fee paying or sponsored child, a spot opens up for a child who cannot afford fees and would not have the opportunity otherwise. The free places are based on need, results, and family background. We also provide free daily lunches to our free students, sometimes their only good nutritious meal of the day.

    Supporting Stepping Stones can be expressed in different ways. Firstly, we are in great need of qualified teachers to offer trainings to our local teachers and to support progressive education. But any volunteer at the school can help learners with English literacy and reading, teach them their talents or inspire them through their personal background. Stepping Stones promotes uniqueness and welcomes open minded thinking. We are certain you have something special that our students would benefit.

    Secondly, by sponsoring a student, you allow us to continue assisting our community by accepting more free learners. Sponsoring can range from school fees to daily lunches, to school supply or clothes.

    Thirdly, even as a sustainable charity school, we depend on donations to make us different from other schools. We need the support from donator to grow, to build new blocks or to acquire new materials. Fundraising for the school is always appreciated.

    Typical day

    We wake up early, at around 6.00am and meet in the restaurant at Butterfly Space's communal table and enjoy breakfast and wait for the school bus to arrive at 7am.


    We collect the children from various locations along the way, sing songs and play games until we get to school.

    Throughout the day, we ...

    Typical day

    We wake up early, at around 6.00am and meet in the restaurant at Butterfly Space's communal table and enjoy breakfast and wait for the school bus to arrive at 7am.


    We collect the children from various locations along the way, sing songs and play games until we get to school.

    Throughout the day, we take part in lessons, assisting the teachers, providing extra support for the children, and adding our own spirit to the room through songs, games and play.

    If we choose, we assist in the preparation of a healthy balanced meal, and take a look around the gardens at the fresh fruit and veg growing around the school for dinner time. We play with the children, and help with any extra tasks that have been set for the day. 

    In the afternoon, we all head home, dropping off the children on the school bus along the way. We have the option to volunteer at the youth club which is on-site at the lodge, or relax by the lake at the bar with a freshly squeezed juice or a cocktail.

    Free-time activities

    Butterfly Space Lodge is beautifully situated under a canopy of mango trees, surrounded by lush permaculture gardens with a restaurant and bar. Butterfly Space is a 15 minute walk from the bustling ferry port and market town, which has a vibrant market, great night life handcrafted souvenir shops, ...

    Free-time activities

    Butterfly Space Lodge is beautifully situated under a canopy of mango trees, surrounded by lush permaculture gardens with a restaurant and bar. Butterfly Space is a 15 minute walk from the bustling ferry port and market town, which has a vibrant market, great night life handcrafted souvenir shops, restaurants and a warm and friendly feel! 

     

    Across the bay is Aqua Africa who offer scuba diving and kayaking. Monkey Business (on site at Butterfly) is a small Malawian business that offers kayaking and canoe trips, mountain biking and treks. The lodge has a lively bar and pool table, and hammocks overlooking the beautiful crystal clear Lake Malawi. Snorkels are available free of charge at reception for snorkelling. There are lots of beautiful coves and beaches to explore along the lake, and pretty villages that welcome warmly passers by. 

     

     

    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

    Required Documents

    CV or proof of education

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    Spoken English is useful in this role. We welcome all skills and skill levels, as we have a diverse range of opportunities that can be tailored to each individual.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 07:00 - 15:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    • Dormitory Accommodation*

    • Two meals in the restaurant included FOR THE FIRST MONTH ONLY.

    • Orientation on projects and Nkhata Bay

    *If people wish to stay in an individual chalet rather than the dormitory then there are upgrade options available.

    Discounts can be discussed and provided for volunteers wishing to volunteer for longer than their initial month. The first month volunteer package is a necessary cost to cover the running costs of the non-profit Butterfly Space lodge and the projects. 

    Accommodation

     You will be placed in a 6 bed dorm, which overlook the lake. Dorm beds have mosquito nets, lockers, and are situated close to our eco friendly toilets and hot outdoor shower which overlooks lake Malawi. 

    Upgrades to private chalets, and en-suite chalets are available upon request.

    Food & Beverages

    2 meals a day in the lodge restaurant for the 1st month only.

    Mkana cafe, situated at Butterflty lodge is outsourced to create more opportunities for local entrepreneurs in our community. 

    The meals are freshly prepared and there are many delicious menu options of local and international dishes, which cater for all dietary requirements.

    Internet Access

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

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Mzuzu

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Mzuzu (ZZU) in Mzuzu. We assist you to find cheap flights to Malawi. 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 Malawi provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

    Flexible. 


    Although school is closed for during the summer holidays (Aug), there are plenty of volunteering opportunities in the youth club, engaging with the children in educational and fun activities. There are also maintenance and organisational tasks which need completing while the school is closed. 


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

    Program Fees

    $130 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

    4.98
    ・
    8 reviews

    •
    2020
    Volunteering through Butterfly Lodge in Malawi has been a real treat,the people are great, the climate wonderful, the food good and the ...
    Judith Weymont

    E.A.R.T.H Workshops

    Location

    Africa > Eastern Africa > Malawi > Nkhata Bay

    Meet your project coordinator

    Holly
    8
    reviews
    4.98
    Outstanding
    2011
    Founded

    Verified

      Below average response rate
    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  >  Education  >  Primary School in Malawi
    Contact Holly
      Below average response rate

    Most volunteers ask about

    Do you have any more questions? Send a message to Holly
    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