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Brilliant 4.72rating (219)
  • Quality Education
  • Sustainable Cities And Communities

Island Teaching & School Development

location
4 - 4 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • This Island lies in the outer regions of the Mamanuca Islands, approximately 1 hour fast ferry from the mainland.
  • You’ll have full access to and will take part in one of the few traditional Fijian island villages left in this region.
  • Help staff at a local school, situated on a remote island, with stunning views all around

Highlights

  • This Island lies in the outer regions of the Mamanuca Islands, approximately 1 hour fast ferry from the mainland.
  • You’ll have full access to and will take part in one of the few traditional Fijian island villages left in this region.
  • Help staff at a local school, situated on a remote island, with stunning views all around
  • Teach from kindergarten to grade 6, teaching English, or even maths, geography and sports
  • Experience in depth the authentic Fijian Island way of living.

    • Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups
    50+

    About the program

    A truly unique, raw and exclusive local Fijian experience! This Island lies in the outer regions of the Mamanuca Islands, approximately 1 hour fast ferry from mainland.

    PLEASE NOTE: Program closed in January 2026


    Teaching in Fiji – Background Information

    This is an incredible placement where you can experience in depth the authentic Fijian Island way of living. After presentation of your offering (Kava ceremony) you will be welcomed into the community to live as an ...

    About the program

    PLEASE NOTE: Program closed in January 2026


    Teaching in Fiji – Background Information

    This is an incredible placement where you can experience in depth the authentic Fijian Island way of living. After presentation of your offering (Kava ceremony) you will be welcomed into the community to live as an honored guest. 

    The location

    This island paradise has extensive views over fringing coral reefs and green-blue tropical seas. It’s a medium sized island (approx 10km in diameter) with cliffs and rolling hills for amazing hikes with views out to surrounding islands where for island hopping or snorkelling. With approx 800 native Fijian inhabitants (some of whom have never seen a car!) Many inhabitant’s work on the local tourist islands. The village’s main source of incomes is handicrafts, pottery and shells, with the local people otherwise relying on subsistence farming and fishing.

    The school

    The placement is centred around the local public school where approx 100 students from kindergarten through to grade 6 come to learn each day. The school receives very minimal government funding and there are substantial needs in all areas of educational assistance, school resources, community development, infrastructure and vocational support.  

    Volunteer work

    The volunteers tasks are varied and acceptance into the program will be based on individual applications. Volunteers will need to be self sufficient and competent enough to see areas of opportunity and to assist as appropriate. This is a challenging and raw experience where you can truly make a positive impact and likely gain an appreciation for the simple things in life.  

    The role of volunteers will involve working with the remote island school teachers and coordinators to design fun and interactive lessons which enable alternative teaching methods and intercultural learning. As the Fijian school curriculum is very standard, having volunteers provides new ways of viewing the world which benefits the kids by providing alternative ways of thinking. 

    Who we are looking for

    Volunteers need only to bring a positive attitude and willingness to experience the true Fijian culture.   

    You must be willing to go with the flow. There are many customs which are ingrained within the Fijian culture that you will not change overnight.  Volunteers need to be open and accepting of the culture, beliefs and operational systems with a view to help by providing alternative ways of thinking in a constructive non critical way. 

    * Please be aware, this project only runs in school term times. The dates for 2025 are as follows:

    Term 1

    Start: 27 January

    End: 02 May

    Break: 05 May - 16 May (2 weeks)

     

    Term 2

    Start: 19 May

    End: 22 August

    Break: 25 August - 05 September (2 weeks)

     

    Term 3

    Start: 08 September

    End: 05 December

    Break: 08 December - 23 January 2026 (7 weeks)

    Typical day

    As you will be living within the school compound which is literally on the beach on a small island setting with an approx 3km perimeter coastline, your life will be centered around the school activities and daily rituals associated. 

    Wake-up with roosters crowing at 5am. Help in early morning chores ...

    Typical day

    As you will be living within the school compound which is literally on the beach on a small island setting with an approx 3km perimeter coastline, your life will be centered around the school activities and daily rituals associated. 

    Wake-up with roosters crowing at 5am. Help in early morning chores and excercise, feeding the boarding students. 

    Preparing lessons for the day.Teaching a lesson or two. Maybe maths, english, sports, geography, you'll be surprised how much insight you can offer! The students here are very sheltered from the outside world and take so much away from your involvement in their lives even for a short period of time.  

    Free-time activities

    You are located on a proper Fijian remote island in the manamunca island range.  Island hopping to local tourist resort islands is the most likely past time for volunteers in this region. This is truly a unique placement as foreigners are not allowed to visit the island without express consent from ...

    Free-time activities

    You are located on a proper Fijian remote island in the manamunca island range.  Island hopping to local tourist resort islands is the most likely past time for volunteers in this region. This is truly a unique placement as foreigners are not allowed to visit the island without express consent from the island chief. As part of the volunteer arrival you must bring Yaqona (Cava) as an offering to the chief. 

    Island hopping, snorkeling, surfing, boating, craft making & hiking as the island is mountainous are all options involved. 

    Nadi and Lautoka area 
    • Visit the Garden of the Sleeping Giant: This beautiful orchid garden in Nadi was founded by actor Raymond Burr and is home to more than 2,000 varieties of orchids.
    • Relax on the beach: There are many beaches in the Nadi and Lautoka area where you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Some popular ones include Natadola Beach and Denarau Island.
    • Explore the Sabeto Hot Springs and Mud Pool: Located just outside of Nadi, this natural hot spring and mud pool is a great place to relax and rejuvenate.
    • Take a tour of the Viseisei Village: This historic village near Lautoka is considered to be the oldest settlement in Fiji, and you can take a guided tour to learn about its history and culture.
    • Shop at the Nadi Market: This bustling market in the heart of Nadi is a great place to find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
    • Visit the Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple: This beautiful Hindu temple in Nadi is the largest in the southern hemisphere and is worth a visit for its intricate architecture and colorful decor.
    • Take a day trip to the Yasawa Islands: The Yasawa Islands are a chain of islands off the coast of Nadi, and you can take a day trip to explore their beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

    Coral Coast/ Sigatoka
    • Visit the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park: This national park in Sigatoka is home to ancient Fijian archaeological sites and offers stunning views of the coastline.
    • Be adventourous with white-water rafting, shark feeding, jet ski tours, zip lining and diving.
    • Go on a river safari: Take a guided tour up the Sigatoka River to explore the Fijian interior and see traditional Fijian villages.
    • Relax on the beach: The Coral Coast is home to many beautiful beaches, including Natadola Beach and the beach at the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort.
    • Take a coral reef tour: Explore the beautiful coral reefs off the coast of the Coral Coast on a snorkeling or diving tour.
    • Visit the Tavuni Hill Fort: This historic fort near Sigatoka dates back to the 1700s and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
    • Visit the Biausevu Waterfall: This beautiful waterfall near Sigatoka is surrounded by lush rainforest and is a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.
    • Go on a sea kayaking tour: Explore the coastline and offshore islands of the Coral Coast on a guided sea kayaking tour.

    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level)

    Education Requirements

    at High School level

    Criminal Background Check

    required

    Required Documents

    We require your Police Clearance and Passport page and Vaccination Card 30 days prior to the project start date.

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 08:30 - 12:30

    What's Included

    What's Included

    Services by Involvement Volunteers IVI

    Return airport pickup/drop off
    Accommodation  (Home Stays – Sharing with other volunteers)
    2 meals p/day (Breakfast & Dinner)
    Filtered drinking water, coffee & tea daily
    Full day orientation & training + cultural sightseeing
    In country 24/7 coordination & emergency assistance
    Fundraising support
    University course credits (where applicable)
    Certificate of Completion    

    • Please note there is an additional cost for ferry transfers not included in the above pricing.  You'll pay the local rates which work out to approx US$50 return for the fast ferry or local boat which we'll provide for you.

    Airport Pickup at Nadi International Airport

    Included in the cost is an arrival airport transfer from Nadi airport to the marina if heading to the islands directly.  In most cases however, you’ll stay with a home stay in Nadi or Lautoka for 1 or 2 nights before making your way to the island.  

    The cost of transfers from the marina to/from the island are not included however we get you the locals discount which brings the cost from approx US$110 return down to approx US$40 return. 

    There are 2 ferry trips to/from the island daily departing from Port Denerau each day;

    • Departing Ferrys – 9:15am and 3:00pm
    • Returning Ferrys – 10:15am and 4:00pm

    Accommodation

    You will live within the large gated school compound where individual family residences exist for the school staff and their families. You’ll normally be provided your own room or sharing with another volunteer. Bedding is usually a mattress on the floor. It’s clean and comfortable, but no frills. The houses are light and airy right next to the ocean but very basic, with normally a living area, sleeping area, kitchen and adjoining bathroom.  

    Electricity is a luxury on the island and small solar lamps are used for the evenings. This means, tv’s radio’s, fridges etc are limited.  You’ll be able to charge your laptop or mobile device no problem.  You’ll also have a safe place to store your belongings. 

    Please note – Many things that we take for granted in our homes are not available on the island and living conditions are very basic. Borehole water is used for washing and toilets and rainwater is used for cooking and drinking. Toilets are western style and waterseal. They need to be filled with a bucket of water to fill the cisten before flushing.

    Food & Beverages

    Fresh fruits and vegetables can be quite scarce on the island so it’s recommended to bring a small offering of rice, flour or long lasting vegetables (ie. cabbage) with you along with some snacks for yourself if desired. You will have plenty to eat, but the variety of options will be less than other home stay placements.

    Breakfast would normally consist of tea with homemade pancakes, bread and fruit if available. The pancakes are very similar to donuts and very yummy!

    Lunch and dinner would mostly consist of fresh fish, chicken, lamb or tinned food. This placement will be difficult for vegetarians who do not eat fish.

    Internet Access

    Good access at the project site

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Nadi International Airport (NAN) in Nadi. We assist you to find cheap flights to Fiji. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Fiji provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Fiji you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Fiji. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

    Preferred arrival dates are Saturday or Sunday, however we can be flexible. 

    Included in the cost is an arrival airport transfer from Nadi airport to the marina if heading to the islands directly. In most cases however, you’ll stay with a home stay in Nadi or Lautoka for 1 or 2 nights before making your way to the island.

    We can arrange return transfers to/from the marina for US$50 if booked in advance. Just ask while making the booking. Otherwise you can take a bus or a tax will cost approx US$10-15 from Nadi.  

    There are 2 ferry trips to/from the island daily departing from Port Denerau each day;

    • Departing Ferrys – 9:15am and 3:00pm
    • Returning Ferrys – 10:15am and 4:00pm

    As a volunteer through IVI, you will obtain a large subsidy on the cost of the Ferrys.  The IVI country manager will assist you in the necessary paperwork…

    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program fees

    4 weeks 1,157€
    Average fees 289€/week

    Program fees

    289€ per week 4 - 4 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES

    Duration

    4 - 4 weeks

    Deposit

    The deposit is simply to reserve your volunteer placement. Payments are handled by PayPal, our trusted global payment provider. If you don't have a PayPal account, you can also pay using a credit card.

    Final Payment

    Your final payment will be agreed with Involvement Volunteers IVI during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.

    4.7
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    One of the top picks on Volunteer World, according to travelers

    Location

    Oceania > Melanesia > Fiji > Nadi

    Meet your project coordinator

    Lauren
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    Spoken languages: English
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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