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Excellent 4.85rating (33)
  • Quality Education

Teaching English as a Foreign Language for kids

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

Highlights

  • experience traditional village life in a rural town surounded by tea-and king coconut plantations and paddy fields. Observe how farming people lead a peaceful life and practise Buddhism.
  • Reacharge your battaries by going to the sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, to places such as Mirissa, Weligama, Matara, Dondra or Galle
  • get inspired by the energies of remoted temples in rainforests, on rocks, at riversides, on islands at the coast of the Indian Ocean.

Highlights

  • experience traditional village life in a rural town surounded by tea-and king coconut plantations and paddy fields. Observe how farming people lead a peaceful life and practise Buddhism.
  • Reacharge your battaries by going to the sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean, to places such as Mirissa, Weligama, Matara, Dondra or Galle
  • get inspired by the energies of remoted temples in rainforests, on rocks, at riversides, on islands at the coast of the Indian Ocean.
  • Bask in the joy and motivation the children show, during your language activities.
  • Learn and expand your knowledge about herbs, vegetables, exotic fruits and Ayurveda way of life. Explore the Sri Lankan cuisine with all its curries
    • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Families
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    we are teachers of government schools in Akuressa, SRL, doing TEFL projects in extra afternoon classes for pupils.

    Public education is available from the age of 6 to the age of 18. However, many government schools, particularly in rural areas like Akuressa, receive minimal government funding. The facilities at the schools are very basic, particularly the classrooms that get extremely cramped as average class ...

    About the program

    Public education is available from the age of 6 to the age of 18. However, many government schools, particularly in rural areas like Akuressa, receive minimal government funding. The facilities at the schools are very basic, particularly the classrooms that get extremely cramped as average class sizes are around 40 to 60 children. Effective, qualified, sustainable education may only be found in private schools and “selected” governmental schools.

    The ability to speak English is of great importance in Sri Lanka. The two main sources of income in Sri Lanka are tourism and migrant workers going to the Middle East. Both occupations require the ability to speak English – the world’s global language. However, the level of English teaching in government schools is limited.

    Coming here to Akuratatha/Akuressa with your will and your enthusiasm to devote temporarily time as a social worker, teacher, coach, guide AND role model, is of immense help for us. You would not only organize English language activities and help to improve language skills by your presence, but also educate the young people.

    In Sri Lankan’s culture monks, teachers and parents have got the highest status. When you are here, as a volunteer you will also be seen the same. Sri Lankans see you as an ethically person who is demonstrating honesty and democracy. And children will respect you what you preach!

    Working in the English Teaching Program is accepted as an internship for your university course or practical training requirements for other job careers. We have been doing a very successful exchange program with the students of the University of International Cooperation North South in Belgium.

    No practical teaching experience is required to join this program. You will have a syllabus to follow, our local teachers here will support you in planning your lessons.

    We expect you to be able to inspire, empower, enhance the young ones to have faith in themselves to improve their English language skills. Creating a joyful, funny, happy learning atmosphere is our goal!

    Typical day

    There are 2 possibilities to work in this program: teach afternoon classes for Akuratatha children and/or do an assistant teacher’s job at a government school/college. You will be supported in your doings by the local teachers and peer mentors of our Mentor Program.

    We expect you to work at ...

    Typical day

    There are 2 possibilities to work in this program: teach afternoon classes for Akuratatha children and/or do an assistant teacher’s job at a government school/college. You will be supported in your doings by the local teachers and peer mentors of our Mentor Program.

    We expect you to work at least three days and not more than five days a week. However,  we have found out  through experience, to volunteer not less than a month. Literally speaking, the longer you decide to stay the better it is for both sides, Akuratatha and you as a volunteer. Working on Saturdays and Sundays would give you the chance to explore places of your interest on week days when they are not too crowded and busy. Working times on these two days :1.30 to 5.30 pm. During the week, Wednesday to Friday: 3 to 5 pm.

    When you are involved in a project, such as the Mentor Program, the Community  Development Project or Extra Curriculum Project your working time will be different from the class schedule.

    After each lesson there is 30 minutes of reflection talk and planning for the next week's lesson.   

    Free-time activities

    We do this project in a remote town called Akuressa. The beaches of Mirissa, Weligama, Unavatuna, Hikkaduwa, Ahangama, Polhena  can be reached by public transport easily. Sinharaja rain forest is also not far away. Akuressa is surrounded by paddy fields and tea plantations. So locals ...

    Free-time activities

    We do this project in a remote town called Akuressa. The beaches of Mirissa, Weligama, Unavatuna, Hikkaduwa, Ahangama, Polhena  can be reached by public transport easily. Sinharaja rain forest is also not far away. Akuressa is surrounded by paddy fields and tea plantations. So locals are farmers.  A lot of them are Buddhists. Although it is a place close to touristic settlements, you can still experience  innocent village family life. We appreciate from volunteers to respect our cultural believes. The Ayurvadic Snake Conservation Project, run by an Ayurvadic doctor, can be reached in 30 minutes by car or by tuk tuk.
    The town has got all the necessary infrastructure such as banks, hospitals, shops. There is also a central bus station, from which you easily reach all the major destinations mentioned above.


    The two of the most popular safari parks,  Yala- and Udawalawa National Park can be reached by car within about 3 hours.

    Our host family is always happy to help you with the planning and organizing of your free time activities. 

    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)

    Education Requirements

    English language, Music, dancing, at high school level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    cv

    Nationality Restrictions

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

    Other Skills

    soft skills required you are working with school children (10-16), slow learners, you communicate with parents.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 14:00 - 18:00

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

    The program fees cover accommodation, three daily meals, utilities (electricity and water), and transportation. Volunteers have the option to

    We aim to make your volunteering experience comfortable, impactful, and affordable. Your contribution helps us sustain the project and provide for the children under our care.

    This includes:

    • 🏠 Accommodation (clean, safe, and comfortable rooms)

    • 🍽️ Three daily meals (home-cooked Sri Lankan food, mostly organic)

    • 📶 Free Wi-Fi and access to all essential amenities

    • 🚐 Transportation for project-related activities

    • 📚 Materials and resources used during teaching and workshops

    • 💧 Drinking water, electricity, cleaning services, and other utilities

    Airport Pickup at Bandaranaike International Airport

    To make your arrival smooth and stress-free, we offer airport pickup from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo.

    Here’s how it works:

    • One of our friendly team members will be waiting for you at the airport arrival area with a sign that reads “Akuratatha Volunteer”.

    • We’ll help you with your luggage and bring you directly to the volunteer home ( feelhome) in Akuressa.

    • The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, and it’s a great opportunity to see the Sri Lankan countryside along the way.

    Airport pickup is included in your program fee. Please make sure to send us your flight details (arrival time, airline, and flight number) at least one week before your arrival so we can make the necessary arrangements.

    We’re excited to welcome you and ensure you start your volunteering journey with comfort and ease!

    Accommodation

    🏡 Your Home Away from Home – Akuratatha Volunteer House

    Volunteers are warmly welcomed into our peaceful and comfortable Akuratatha Volunteer Home, located in a friendly rural village surrounded by coconut trees, rice fields, and nature. The homestay is just a short walk from the classes and preschool, allowing you to be fully immersed in the community.

    We provide private bedrooms so you have your own space to rest and recharge after a meaningful day with the children. You’ll experience the perfect balance of privacy, comfort, and community living.

    🛎️ What’s Included:

    • 🛏️ Private bedroom with AC and  fan, mosquito net, clean bedding, and basic furniture

    • 🚿 Western-style shared bathrooms, cleaned regularly

    • 🍽️ Three nutritious home-cooked meals daily, with vegetarian options available

    • 📶 Free Wi-Fi throughout the home

    • 🧺 Laundry space and help with basic cleaning if needed

    • 🌿 Tranquil garden for reading, yoga, journaling, or socializing

    • 💧 Safe drinking water and all essential utilities (electricity, gas, maintenance)

    • 🔐 Personal lockable drawers or lockers for storing valuables safely

    🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Volunteer Community:

    At any given time, we usually host between 2 to 6 volunteers. This creates a cozy, friendly atmosphere where you’ll easily build bonds, share meals and stories, and explore Sri Lanka together on weekends.

    We do our best to match volunteers with similar interests and schedules to ensure a positive group dynamic.

    Whether you're enjoying a quiet tea in the garden, helping prepare a local dish in the kitchen, or relaxing after a day of meaningful work, our home becomes your home—a place of belonging, safety, and shared purpose.

    Food & Beverages

    You will be served three meals per day, cooked by your hosts. Meals are mainly based on traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, including rice, meat curries, fish curries, and a variety of vegetable curries.

    One special part of staying with us is that we grow many of our own vegetables and fruits in our garden. Whenever available, we use fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruits from our own garden for the meals we prepare for volunteers. This gives you the opportunity to enjoy fresh, home-grown produce and experience a more traditional Sri Lankan way of living.

    Vegetarian or vegan dishes can be prepared upon request. The kitchen is also available for your use if you prefer to prepare your own meals.

    If you fancy Western food, there are a variety of restaurants offering such meals in coastal areas like Weligama, Mirissa, Matara, and Galle. These locations are accessible by tuk-tuk, car, or public transport from where you’ll be staying.

    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 Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. We assist you to find cheap flights to Sri Lanka. 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 Sri Lanka provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

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

    Details on arrival

     

    Volunteers can join our program throughout the year. There is no specific arrival days and/or time slots. When there are school holidays in government schools it is even an advantage for our Akuratatha classes to be held, as it is easier for our students to attend our lessons, projects and programs.   

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

    Program Fees

    $233 per week 4 - 50 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    4 - 50 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

    4.85
    ・
    33 reviews

    Location

    Asia > Southern Asia > Sri Lanka > Akuressa

    Meet your project coordinator

    sahan
    33
    reviews
    4.85
    Excellent
    2004
    Founded

    Verified

      Moderate 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.

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    Volunteer Abroad  >  Education  >  English Teaching in Sri Lanka
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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