In the Philippines good jobs require proficiency in English, so the ability to speak, read and write in English is very much encouraged and important from a young age. Teaching children English language from a young age can dramatically improve their chances and opportunities for a better job later in life.
Unfortunately, many rural primary schools in the Philippines are overcrowded, lacking adequate textbooks and teaching resources. Most will not even have a library. In the classroom, there is usually just a simple blackboard. The classes can often be cramped with children squeezed into small classrooms.
The local teachers, whilst understaffed, are incredibly dedicated, often buying school resources from their own pockets. They do this even though a teachers wage in the Philippines is very low, so therefore put themselves at risk by spending what they don’t have. This can often lead these teachers to move abroad, where they can earn a higher wage and a better work-life balance.
By volunteering at the schools, as a native English speaker, you will not only help the students in learning the language, but the local teachers too. Whilst they have good teaching abilities, many are not fluent in English themselves. By working with them, they can learn more about the English language, and perhaps some new teaching methods too. You will work together with the local teachers.
As well as English, you can also teach mathematics, science, history, music, arts, and sports if you wish.
Many of the children have not had too much experience with foreigners, so this is also a great experience for them to interact with someone from another country and to learn about your culture. They are very eager to learn and enthusiastic children, however they are still of primary age, so teaching classes using engaging activities is vital to keep their attention!
The students have grown up speaking Waray-Waray, the local dialect, and will also learn English and Filipino, the national language, in school. However, they have little opportunity to speak Filipino or English outside of the classroom.
The volunteer work will focus less on grammar and more on conversational English, and generally getting the children excited and wanting to learn English. They should be aware of the opportunities it may bring in the future.
Volunteers with teaching experience will have a greater role such as lesson planning and leading classes. For those who do not have too much experience, you will be able to work as a classroom assistant or taking small groups, or individual tutoring.
Any teaching equipment is welcome as the school is lacking in things such as flashcards, pens, pencils, posters, etc.
Location
Tacloban is approximately 360 miles from Manila. It’s the capital of the Province of Leyte and has a population of 275,000 people. The city offers international volunteers an opportunity to be immersed in a unique Asian culture, which is at least partially left untouched by Western Culture, especially in the rural areas. In November 2013, Tacloban was one of the most devastated areas of the Philippines when Super Typhoon Yolanda (Hayian) ravaged through the Philippines; therefore, the city and surrounding areas now present an even greater range of opportunities for international volunteers. Tacloban is easily accessible by air from Manila or Cebu through daily flights offered by Philippines Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Zest Air.
