The Program

During this volunteer project, you will help provide education for children between the ages of 5-12 in a Costa Rican school. Some schools also have younger children that are in kindergarten or pre-kindergarten. Depending on the school, there could be between 100-650 children. 

As a volunteer, you can decide whether you would like to work full-time or part-time, as the schools are flexible with their work schedules. Although no teaching experience or special skills are needed for this project, volunteers should be patient, willing to work independently, proactive, and creative.

At the schools, children are taught regular school subjects, such as science, math, and geography. Lessons in art, music, computing, and physical education are also offered. English is taught as their foreign language class.

Usually, the children at the schools come from low-income families. The schools are financed by an annual budget from the government, and parents only have to pay a small tuition fee and for some school materials.

The Location

Costa Rica's capital San José is located in the heart of this small country. From there, you can reach all of Costa Rica’s attractions in a few hours, some natural beauties like the Irazu volcano and several national parks are even right at the doorstep! With around 340,000 inhabitants, San José itself is not very large, but due to its role as the capital and its central location, it is the country's economic, political and cultural center. 

The inhabitants call themselves "Josefinos" and most are descendants of Italian or Spanish immigrants. These influences are reflected in the architecture and cityscape, which seem very Mediterranean. San José is a pretty town with attractive theaters, museums, art galleries, cultural events – and not at last a lively nightlife. Colorful markets invite you to stroll and shop and on nice places you can relax and watch the hustle and bustle. 

As in all of Costa Rica, there are hardly any "real" addresses in the capital - street signs are usually not found, just like house numbers. Addresses are rather descriptions, like: Name of the district, 200m south of the red church, the house with the green door. Or: Fourth house next to the gas station behind the supermarket. Sounds adventurous? But it works!