Be a volunteer Modern Languages teacher in Bolivia

Students in Bolivia

This voluntary teaching project works with modern languages students at a university in Cochabamba, Bolivia. This is a perfect project for anyone with language skills either on a career break or looking for voluntary work abroad.

The linguistics department of the Universidad Mayor de San Simon offers a wide variety of language classes for its students. Bolivia is looking to improve its levels of higher education so that students can get quality jobs and contribute to the local economy. The university is looking for fluent linguists to help the students with their education.

Here you will find answers to the following questions:

How can volunteer Modern Languages teachers help in Bolivia?

What will I gain from this project?

What will Projects Abroad PRO provide?

What skills or qualifications do I need?

How do I apply to join this project?

How can volunteer Modern Languages teachers help in Bolivia?

You can use your knowledge and training to help local staff as a volunteer Modern Languages teacher. You can work on tasks such as:

• Teaching a modern language abroad in the linguistics department of a Bolivian University, including tasks such as:
  • Preparing and delivering language lessons and activities.
  • Producing resources.
  • Setting and marking tests and exercises.
  • Being involved in social and cultural activities like sports, social events and trips.
• Working with existing staff to assess and improve current standards of teaching methodology and subject content
• Observing classes in order to assess existing teaching staff, offer advice and set goals for their development.

The Universidad Mayor de San Simon (UMSS) is a public university open to students from all over Bolivia. Students from Peru, Brazil, Chile and other South American countries also attend classes at UMSS.

UMSS registers over 45,000 students each semester. Most classes are taught between 6:45am and 11pm. However, you will be able to work out a suitable schedule with your project supervisor. Each class normally lasts around 90 minutes and there is also the option to arrange extra tutorial classes.

During University Holidays we arrange private classes in the Projects Abroad office. These holidays run from the end of December through to mid-March (Summer Break), and mid-July to mid-August (Winter Break). Other than this we are completely flexible and you can join at any time. You decide how much time you can spare and we will help you get the most out of it.

What will I gain from this project?

Origami Teacher helps student

You will gain experience of teaching languages in the developing world. You will be working alongside professional teachers who will want to share ideas. Teaching a language in Bolivia will improve your Spanish speaking skills as well as your appreciation for your own language.

Through educating the students at your chosen school, you will learn about Bolivia’s culture and way of life. Staff and pupils will want to hear about your life back home and your family and friends. We call this ‘cultural exchange’ and we think it helps our volunteers gain a new perspective on life.

What will Projects Abroad PRO provide?

We have over 20 years’ experience of running volunteer projects. We provide you with the following support to make sure your time in Bolivia is successful and enjoyable:

• Safe accommodation with a Bolivian family close to your project.
• Friendly and dedicated local staff available to help 24 hours a day.
• A member of staff to meet you at the airport when you arrive.
• Comprehensive medical and travel insurance.
• Social events with other volunteers such as a weekend trip to a local tourist destination.

What skills or qualifications do I need?

If you have attained Qualified Teacher Status (or the equivalent qualification in your home country) then you are perfectly suited to this project.

Please contact us if you think your knowledge may be useful on this project but do not have the required qualifications.