Info

Teach in a school at the Himalayan foothills. Spend your career break in Nepal and live in amazing surroundings.

MondoChallenge volunteers are currently operating in ten small schools in the area, each with approximately 60-80 pupils. These schools are spread either in the villages about an hour from Kalimpong, the district’s second town, or closer to Darjeeling town itself.

Unlike many of their counterparts in cities, the children in these remote villages do not have access to educational facilities or trained teachers. Consequently, many never have the chance to learn English to a decent degree or progress beyond a basic education.

MondoChallenge volunteers are helping to compensate for this lack of resources by providing fluent English language skills, as well as energy and creative teaching techniques

The projects are well organised so that volunteers can make a good contribution in a relatively short amount of time. Pre-departure briefings and continuous support by locally based managers help with preparation and enable volunteers to maximise their contribution as well as their own enjoyment.

Volunteers work as a teachers in the schools, concentrating mainly on English language and conversation but with opportunities to develop sports, music, drama, dance or other academic lessons.

The projects are community based, meaning that volunteers live and work in the villages and are able to contribute something to communities where monetary wealth and opportunities are limited. The school classes are small and the students are very willing to learn, so even those volunteers without prior teacher training or experience are able to make a valuable impact.

In addition to the satisfaction of making a difference to the lives of the children, many volunteers feel they gain enormously themselves from their placements. Often sited in this context are increased self-confidence, teaching experience, and the enjoyment of living a simple, mountain lifestyle for a little while!

The Darjeeling District is one of the most beautiful parts of the Himalayan foothills, with a long tradition as a hill station much sought after by those living in the heat of the plains! The famous Darjeeling railway is one of the highest operating in the world, and Kalimpong is right on the border of Sikkim, famous for its beauty and isolation.

The people in this area are largely Nepali, and are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality. Volunteers live with families in the villages, and are often struck by the welcome and generosity of their hosts.

Spending some time in these villages is a great opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the Himalaya, witness the beauty of the famous Teesta Valley Tea Plantations, and take trips to some of the many monasteries and view points around the area, which most tourists never get to see.

Duration

From 1 month

Start Dates

Flexible

Costs / Benefits

Voluntary work

Requirements

Prior teaching experience is not essential. Enthusiasm, energy, resourcefulness and an open mind are crucial, however, as are an interest in education and a affinity for children.