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Brilliant 4.72rating (254)
  • Quality Education

Teaching and Education Support

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

Highlights

  • Work with children and local teachers in a supportive environment.
  • Teach English through creative activities like games, songs, and art.
  • Assisting with lesson planning and preparing classroom materials.

Highlights

  • Work with children and local teachers in a supportive environment.
  • Teach English through creative activities like games, songs, and art.
  • Assisting with lesson planning and preparing classroom materials.
  • Participating in school events and community activities.
  • Teach basic English in a fun and informal way that the kids will enjoy.
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    You will be teaching conversational English and other related subjects, depending on the needs of the children in Tarrafal.

    In Cape Verde, many children face barriers to education, including limited resources and minimal family support. This volunteer program offers a valuable opportunity to support primary school students by teaching English in a lively, engaging, and meaningful way. With only five local teachers ...

    About the program

    In Cape Verde, many children face barriers to education, including limited resources and minimal family support. This volunteer program offers a valuable opportunity to support primary school students by teaching English in a lively, engaging, and meaningful way. With only five local teachers available for 260 students—half of whom are girls—your contribution can make a real difference in their educational journey and open up new possibilities for their future.

    Your role goes beyond teaching English; it’s about sparking creativity, encouraging curiosity, and sharing perspectives from around the world. By partnering with local educators, you’ll help children build confidence in their language skills and expand their horizons.

    Program Highlights

    • Collaborate with children and dedicated local teachers in a welcoming, supportive setting.
    • Use games, songs, and art to teach English in a fun, interactive way.
    • Share your culture while learning about Cape Verdean customs and daily life.
    • Become part of the local community and experience its warm, vibrant culture.

    What You’ll Be Doing

    • Teach basic English using playful, creative approaches like music, storytelling, and group games.
    • Support lesson planning and help prepare classroom materials.
    • Contribute your own fresh ideas to keep lessons engaging and enjoyable.
    • Take part in school activities and community events.
    • Maintain simple lesson records to help ensure smooth transitions between volunteers.
    • Arrive on time, come prepared, and bring a positive, can-do attitude to every class.
    You will be expected to help towards lesson plans for the students and asssit the lcoal teacher in lessons. You will also get the chance to take the lead in lessons either alone or with another volunteer. You can be creative in what you teach the kids! You do not need to bring anything from home but it can be beneficial to have some lessons or topics in mind before your trip, and bring along some classroom props or printed worksheets, etc. This is not mandatorry though.

    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
    • Help children develop English skills, giving them tools for future opportunities.
    • Provide cultural exchange experiences for both you and the local community.
    • Support local educators by sharing creative teaching methods and global perspectives.
    • Create lasting connections that foster a sense of global community.

    Typical day

    Monday (first week)
    • Warm welcome and orientation to Cape Verdean traditions and culture.
    • Learn the essentials with a Basic Kriolu Lesson.
    • Explore local supermarkets, ATMs, and the vibrant surroundings of the center.
    • Unwind at Mar De President Beach—soak in the sun and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
    • Retu

    Typical day

    Monday (first week)
    • Warm welcome and orientation to Cape Verdean traditions and culture.
    • Learn the essentials with a Basic Kriolu Lesson.
    • Explore local supermarkets, ATMs, and the vibrant surroundings of the center.
    • Unwind at Mar De President Beach—soak in the sun and enjoy the beautiful coastline.
    • Return to the center for a relaxing dinner and reflection on the day.
    Tuesday to Friday - 3-5 hours per day
    • Teaching Activities at the Placement/School.
    • Assist the class teacher in lesson planning and preparing teaching materials for the next day

    ***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. 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
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    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
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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Education  >  English Teaching in Cape Verde
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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