Volunteer English teacher at a school in Ethiopia

What is the problem and how can volunteer English teachers help?

Primary school in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a country slowly but surely establishing itself as a developing nation after emerging from years of horrific famine. Unsurprisingly, the education system suffers from a lack of both funding and qualified teachers, making it a challenge to teach both young Ethiopians and adults alike. With Ethiopia attempting to grow its economy and provide jobs for its citizens, it is vital that children improve their standard of spoken and written English so that they can find it easier to obtain work in the future. Projects Abroad Pro offer voluntary teaching jobs in Ethiopia with primary schools and language centres who are working to improve the standard of education available to the poorest areas of society. As a volunteer teacher you will use your experience and training not only to teach classes but also to help the existing staff improve their standards and ensure that up-to-date teaching methodology is used. We are determined to work with these institutions and help them give young Ethiopians the chance to develop their skills. We believe that you can help us achieve this.

What is my role as an English teacher in Ethiopia?

• Teach English abroad in either a primary or secondary school, depending on your experience, including tasks such as:
  • Planning, preparing and delivering lessons to a range of classes
  • Marking work, giving appropriate feedback and maintaining records of pupils' progress and development
  • Supervising and supporting the work of teaching assistants, trainee teachers and newly qualified teachers
• Work with existing staff to assess and improve current standards of teaching methodology and subject content
• Observe classes in order to assess existing teaching staff, offer advice and set goals for their development
• Organise and run training clinics for Projects Abroad volunteers working with other schools (optional)

What skills or qualifications do I need?

Pupils in Ethiopia

In order to ensure high standards and help the project progress you will need to have attained Qualified Teacher Status or equivalent as an absolute minimum. Ideally, a qualified teacher on this project would also possess at least two years’ experience of teaching in a primary or secondary school. It is important that you are confident in your ability to provide quality teaching and in your knowledge of current teaching methodologies. You will also require a high standard of spoken and written English. The person we have in mind would be confident, outgoing, friendly and creative, as well as having the patience required when working with less experienced staff and adapting to the challenges of a developing country.

Even if you feel you do not possess the required skills or qualifications for this role, you can still help on the same project. Please visit our website for more information about volunteer teaching in Ethiopia.

What is unique about this project?

At Projects Abroad Pro we believe that volunteer placements can and should be about much more than one person helping the less fortunate. Cultural exchange has always been paramount on our projects with volunteers spending time in local communities, learning about a new culture and experiencing a different way of life. Our Skilled Volunteer Placements offer a unique chance for you to work with fellow professionals in your industry, sharing your ideas and learning to adapt your working methods to face a challenging new environment. Naturally, some of your new peers will be less experienced than you and this will provide an opportunity to pass on some of your specialised knowledge and training. However, in many cases you will meet talented, well-respected professionals happy to engage in lively debate and offering you the chance to learn and apply valuable new skills.

What guidance and support is provided?

For many years now we have been offering unparalleled in-country support for our volunteers in over 500 projects worldwide. Every Projects Abroad Pro volunteer is covered by our comprehensive medical and travel insurance. Upon arrival in Ethiopia you will be collected at the airport by one of our team of staff and escorted to your new accommodation. All of our volunteers stay with local host families and you will be provided with plenty of food and clean drinking water. Our friendly and dedicated staff are on call 24 hours a day to ensure your safety and wellbeing and a member of the team will make frequent visits to check the standard of your accommodation. You will also be invited to social events such as parties and quizzes, giving you the chance to meet new volunteers and relax after work. Questions regarding any aspect of this placement are welcome and our UK office is more than happy to offer guidance and advice.