We work with two fantastic primary schools in Livingstone, Zambia, where the learners’ mother tongue is Chitonga, the local language. The children are lively, curious, well-mannered, and truly a joy to volunteer with.
Each grade has one to two classes, typically with around 45 learners per class. However, in one of the more under-resourced schools, class sizes can reach up to 70. The schools have between 500 to 700 learners, and both the principals and teachers are enthusiastic about welcoming volunteers to assist across a variety of areas — from classroom support and after-school clubs to adult education, depending on the school’s needs.
The government primary schools provide free education for learners and they ae also fed a basic lunch of maize meal porridge and beans- or similar- for lunch which volunteers can also assist with.
Subjects that volunteers can help teach include English, Mathematics, Social Science, Natural Science, Home Economics, Business Studies, Computer Studies, and even Early Childhood Education (Grade R). Volunteers are encouraged to follow the Zambian curriculum while also contributing lesson ideas and creative approaches that can inspire both learners and teachers alike.
There's also great opportunity to run after-school clubs in areas such as sports, art, drama, and environmental education — all of which are welcomed and appreciated.
We recommend that volunteers plan their stay for the beginning or middle of the school term, rather than the end, as the final weeks are typically reserved for exams and assessments.
One of the primary schools is within walking distance of the volunteer house, while the other — located in a more under-resourced area — is a 4km cycle ride away. Bicycles are provided for volunteers and the area is safe to cycle. This second school is also the most overcrowded and in greatest need of support, but volunteer placements will be based on where help is most needed at the time.
