Year Abroad Children's Development Worker
Coordinator | Pearl
Coordinator | Pearl
Book with Flex Option!
Choose new departure dates or change to a different volunteer program at no extra costs.
Highlights
Experience a life changing cultural journey to Africa.
Gain perspective of how developing nations keep their cultures alive in our modern fast changing world.
Become more passionate about social development and gain a sense of community!
Make memories you will never forget with people from all over the world sharing your experience with you.
See some of the most incredible nature scenes in the world including Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, Hot Springs, waterfalls and so much more.
Spend a year in Arusha. Work with pre-school children from the community during term times and exploring Tanzania during breaks on this culturally immersive program.
This volunteer program is especially suitable for:
Age 18+
Singles
Couples
Groups
50+
BOOK AS A GROUP
Book with one or more people for a 15% discount off your final placement fee each
About the project
Spend a year abroad in this immersive experience living and working in Arusha, Tanzania. Experience the incredible beauty that is Tanzania and it's beautiful people. This project will focus on supporting the children reach their full potential as early as possible. This is a vital community service these pre-school centres provide where local children can feel hopeful about their future, learn and grow.
Note on our ethics: Our program is completely in support of locals and foreigners who want to support child development programs for those most at need. Please note that although this is a project serving underprivileged children, this is not orphanage work. We choose not to work with orphanages/institutional orphanages for a variety of reasons we feel are problematic and ethically ambiguous. Our programs are mostly educationally focused and encourage volunteers to use their educational or professional skills to contribute to their chosen projects. We have a number or safeguarding checks in place before we accept or place any volunteers in any of our programs, especially those involving vulnerable and at risk children. Therefore although we commend good intentions, we will always take safeguarding checks as a priority above all else and there's always a possibility we may not people for the reasons specified. If you are accepted however, you do so knowing you're working in as ethical and socially conscious environment we can possibly provide.
The Problem
With so much poverty and socioeconomic issues in Tanzania, many children end up not receiving the best start to education and school. There are many reasons that create this heartbreaking situation.
- Families not being able to afford fees and school expenses
- Pre-schools not being able to afford to pay for extra childcare workers and more classes
- Class sizes are too big and not every child is getting the attention that they need to develop
- Children with learning difficulties not receiving proper help
- Standards of education are not meeting the level needed to advanced this generation of children
- Children are not given enough stimulation and motivation to advance through education
The Mission
Many bright and motivated volunteers have shone the light and shown the difference that can be made through
volunteering. By providing time and classroom assistance, volunteers introduce new ideas, hope and development
to the work already being done. Some have even gone on to sponsor children, providing them with funding for
education until they finish school, giving children with a fighting chance at future. Through interaction with
foreigners, the children also learn how to easily engage with people from different backgrounds from them, they
pick up basic English very quickly and learn to love to socialize.
Your role as a volunteer
Your role as a volunteer will be to assist the staff meet the children's development and social needs.
The children require a lot of support and stimulation to learn throw play and social interaction. The centres mainly require general day to day and people who are enthusiastic, patient and passionate about child development.
General childcare: Supporting the care of the children day to day.
Overseeing the children during class time
Assisting the staff with children who need more learning support or attention during the day
Helping with the upkeep of the centre-cleaning, cooking and maintenance every day
- Tending to the children during play time
Project Management: The centres require a lot of management support ensuring that it stays open. You can help by overseeing the weekly budget, fundraising, ensuring the centres are providing adequate meals, that the property is kept safe and clean, even photography or helping build their websites.
Training and supporting the staff: As well delivering small scale teaching and training to the local staff on first aid and general skills support.
- First Aid and child health/nutrition
- Help to innovate and develop their current curriculum for pre schoolers
- Help to update and refresh basic child development and child counselling skills
Assistants, students and interns are vital to help deliver the care the children required as the centre is also understaffed.
Why this is important
Many of the children have special needs, disabilities and require extra class room support, additional psychological care and special education.
These are exceptionally bright and engaged children who have the support of passionate and hardworking staff fighting for their futures. But there is so much more to be done. Many of the centres are in need of full refurbishment and stimulating and educational toys and equipment is needed to progress these children.
Much deserved funds are desperately needed to help the centres progress and reach their full potential. Educational toys, books, classroom materials and food donations are also what volunteers have contributed which have made a huge, long term difference to the children.
But will you make a difference?
Yes. Many bright and motivated volunteers have shone the light and shown the difference that can be made through volunteering. By providing time and care, volunteers introduce new ideas, hope and healthcare at ground level, adding to the work already being done.
Your Stay
You will stay in Siret Hostel; one of the highest rated and reviewed hostels in Arusha. Providing safe, clean and comfortable accommodation, comfortable bedding, excellent breakfast and dinner and housekeeping. This will be a quiet and friendly neighbourhood only 15 minutes from the main hustle and bustle of town. You will have 24 hour gated security, a domestic/cook (who will happily do your laundry for a small fee) and a coordinator who will ensure you settle in quickly and comfortably into your new town. This is a shared home where you will be staying with other volunteers and guests from across the world, so you will never be on your own in your new environment. The house is impeccably clean, well kept, modern and spacious.
How will you get around?
For your placement, you will travel like a local and walk or take public transport. You will need to set a small budget aside for this (around $1 per day by local minibuses, 4 to 5 days per week). It is important you are prepared and comfortable to travel around town, this is a demanding role that requires dedication.
Important VISA & Permit Information
You will be required to pay a for a VISA work assignment. Please note this is a legal requirement and your responsibility. Please enquire for details on VISA for long stay.
Typical day
Your typical day will usually begin very early, helping the local staff prepare the centre for the children's arrival. You will then be given specific duties within the school, either assisting organisation at the centre or helping with general childcare (health, day care, running of the centre) for the day.
Your day can be either very hectic and extremely challenging or slow and very quiet. You will need to be motivated, resilient and work well in a team in order to get the best out of your experience.
What will your schedule look like?
- 07:00 Breakfast
- 08:00 Report to placement
- 12:00-13:00 Lunch Break
- 15:00 Placement ends
The rest of the day will be yours to relax and enjoy what the town has to offer you!
Free-time activities
Arusha provides an array of activities to get involved in during your free time. Explore the numerous walking trails, enjoy the large amount of cafe's bistro's and local food in town and many more places to relax. There is a vibrant community life in Arusha, whether you want to enjoy a quiet meal, watch outdoor cinema or go dancing.
Siret Trip Adventures provide a unique opportunity for our special volunteers to experience more of Africa's beauty. Take a scenic weekend walking tour of the lush rolling foothills of Mt Meru or a breathtaking day trips to some the world's most admired national reserves. Arusha is packed with opportunity to experience unique and unforgettable outdoor adventures.
What else is there to do?
There are endless possibilities. Most volunteers rave about climbing Kilimanjaro. This usually takes about a week, so ensure you organise this with us before you arrive. Take advantage of this amazing tourist treasure.
Hot springs
An oasis in the middle of a barren landscape. The hot springs are truly magnificent. This can be organised as a day trip at any time.
The Waterfalls
Another hot favourite. Hiking across lush vegetation to the spectacular waterfalls.
Safari
Ah yes, what Tanzania is world famous for. Safari is once in a lifetime adventure that is unique to the Africa experience. Unforgettable and jaw dropping landscapes is what is promised. This will need you to sacrifice some days, so please ensure you organise this long in advance.
Tour packages, Safari's and cultural experiences are all available.
Water Sports
Swimming
Concert/
Music
Music
Shopping/
Souvenirs
Souvenirs
Climbing
Safari/
Zoo
Zoo
Hiking
Museum/
Opera
Opera
Sports
Riding
Yoga/
Meditation
Meditation
Requirements
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.
You need to speak English (basic level)
required
at High School Diploma level
Cover Letter, CV, proof of education, relevant certifications, passport copy and criminal background check or two signed character references
No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.
Childcare, social work or education experience desirable but not essential.
A clear interest in early childhood development.
A clear interest in early childhood development.
Your helping hand will be required on
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday
from
08:00
- 15:00
What's Included
- Volunteer placement facilitation-full program scheduling
- Placement supervision
- Pre-arrival support & preparation of your project/work placement
- Airport pick up
- Orientation and full coordination
- Accommodation Room & Board (Breakfast & Dinner)
- Housekeeping
- Free Wifi
- Daily in-person availability of coordinators
- EXCLUDES
- Airport transport on departure (can be arranged)
- VISA and PERMIT fees
PICK UP POINTS:
Kilimanjaro Airport (KIA)
Arusha Airport (ARK)
Arusha Bus station
Kilimanjaro Airport (KIA)
Arusha Airport (ARK)
Arusha Bus station
Our volunteers stay in a newly refurbished volunteer house with modern amenities for a comfortable guest house experience.
- Conveniently located in town
- Housekeeping daily
- Hot showers
- WiFi
- Beautiful spacious grounds
- Gated security with electric fencing and intercom entry
- Overnight security guard
Private double bedrooms available on request.
Breakfast and Dinner
- Continental breakfast with, eggs, toast, variety of fruit! Coffee & Tea.
- Dinner Mondays to Fridays. Kitchen facilities available at weekends.
- A set menu of spaghetti bolognese, pilau (flavoured rice and veg), rice and chicken, chapati (flat bread) and beans served with salad and fruit!
- We have a filtered water cold/hot water dispenser to save on buying bottled water and make sure you keep hydrated with clean and safe water!
And of course the kitchen is yours to use! We have a fabulous chef who can guide you to local supermarkets if you want to buy your own personal food and snacks!
During orientation you will be shown tasty and affordable places to get lunch during your work day. You will have a good variety of local and western food places. There are amazing cafe's, bistro's and affordable western restaurants to enjoy a burger, salad, seafood etc!
Good access at the project site
Visa, flights, travel insurance or vaccinations are NOT included in the program fees.
The nearest airport is Arusha Airport (ARK) in Arusha. We assist you to find cheap flights to Tanzania.
Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Tanzania provides security and is a plus to have.
If you are intending to volunteer in Tanzania you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Tanzania.
Dates & Fees
NO CREDIT CARD FEES
Details on arrival
Placement begins on the first Monday of each week, except for the last week of each month. Placements still available during public holidays. Please book according to your arrival/landing date, to endeavour to arrive on a Sunday and start orientation on a Monday.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
50 - 50 weeks
Program fees
50 weeks
(min. stay)
$6,075
50 weeks
(max. stay)
$6,075
Average fees
$122
/week
Please note that the above shown program fees are estimated.
Siret Volunteers
will let you know about the final price during your application process.
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.
Your final payment will be agreed with Siret Volunteers during the application process. Common solutions are either via bank transfer or a cash payment at the project site.
Why book with Volunteer World
Volunteer World is the world's leading comparison platform for international volunteer opportunities. We guide you through a safe and easy
application process
- including all necessary payments. Planning your next meaningful trip with Volunteer World gives you free access to our:
Quality Assurance
High ethical standards & transparent social impact
Flex Option
Change your reservation at no extra costs
Refund Guarantee
We refund your fees if Siret Volunteers cancels your trip
Support & Mediation
We cover your back no matter what happens
Our services are free of charge!
All program fees are charged directly by Siret Volunteers.
What are people saying about Volunteer World?
Year Abroad Children's Development Worker
Spend a year in Arusha. Work with pre-school children from the community during term times and exploring Tanzania during breaks on this culturally immersive program.
$122/week
You might be also interested in
Arusha, Tanzania
Volunteer on a mission a to help continue this amazing project! With so many young women homeless, at risk and with no where to turn help continue the shelter project.
Arusha, Tanzania
Work with bright kids at an orphanage helping them develop their education, helping with childcare and supporting the staff to make sure the children meet their needs.
arusha, Tanzania
Volunteer to teach these little stars starting their preschool & primary school in an exciting curriculum, including Art, Sports Education, Languages and more!
Arusha, Tanzania
Volunteer or Intern to teach primary school in Tanzania. Student volunteers welcome. Engage during class time, work on curriculums with the teachers and classroom assist.
Arusha, Tanzania
With so many young women homeless, at risk and with no where to turn, a shelter was made as a safe house for them. Volunteer to help continue this amazing project!
Arusha, Tanzania
Volunteer to work in Arusha. Engage in educational play, assist in class and during mealtimes and helping with children's development activities. Not orphanage work.
404 Not Found
Why am I seeing this?
You requested a page that doesn't exist on this site any more. This could be caused by a link you followed that was out of date, by a typing in the wrong address in the address bar, or simply because the post has been deleted.