Why This Project Matters 

Tanzania's education system faces real structural challenges, from overcrowded classrooms to a persistent shortage of qualified teachers. Early childhood education in particular remains under-resourced, even though these first years lay the foundation for everything that follows. In some regions, a single teacher is responsible for well over 100 children, leaving little room for the individual attention early development depends on.

This is where volunteers make a difference. You give the children individual attention, playful practice, and the confidence that comes from someone taking the time. In 2025, wayers supported 14 schools on the east coast and reached around 3,400 children, donated 140 school desks so that 420 children finally had a proper place to learn, and repainted 80% of the public schools we partner with, adding educational murals that make the classrooms a place children want to be.

Your Project: Social Work and Teaching with Children in Zanzibar

This project combines social work with young children and teaching in primary schools, with a strong focus on playful, interactive learning. What matters most here isn't just energy and commitment, but openness, responsibility, creativity, and a genuine enthusiasm for working with children.

Social Work: You'll work with children of all ages, from six-month-old babies to primary school students, supporting local staff in their daily care. This includes playing, reading, crafting, and singing, and giving them attention that's often in short supply. Your presence and care can make a real difference in their daily lives.

Teaching: English is already part of the primary school curriculum in Zanzibar, though many teachers have limited English skills themselves. This is where you can help, especially in English lessons, bringing the language to life through play alongside local teachers. Depending on your interests, you may also assist with math, music, or sports. You'll begin by assisting teachers, gradually taking on small teaching units as you gain confidence, always with the support of local staff.

Location: Your placement is in a daycare centre or preschool in Pwani Mchangani on Zanzibar's east coast, just a short five minute walk from the wayers Home.

Who You Will Be Working With
You work alongside the local teachers and carers, who remain responsible for the children at all times and guide your day. At the project you have a named contact for anything to do with your work there.

Our team on the east coast supports you throughout. Hithri is your contact for everything around your placement, Josephine coordinates all volunteer activities, from your arrival to the accommodation and the quality of the meals, and Benita is our volunteer coordinator in Tanzania.

You are never on your own: other wayers volunteers live with you at the wayers Home, exclusive to wayers participants, and head off to their projects at the same time each morning.

What We Expect From You
No teaching or childcare experience is needed, and no formal qualification. What matters is initiative: getting involved rather than waiting to be given tasks, during lessons and in the breaks alike. Basic English is necessary, as it is the language you teach and communicate in. Reliability and punctuality are essential, since the children and staff count on you being there.

Some things work differently on Zanzibar than at home, and plans can change at short notice. An open, patient attitude makes all the difference. If problems come up, talk to your supervisor so that you can find a solution together.

What You Can Expect From Us
Before you leave, we prepare you with an online seminar, access to the wayers Lounge, and the chance to connect with other participants. On arrival you receive a full introduction covering your project, the island, safety, and everyday practicalities.

During your stay you have contact persons at the project, personal support from our team on the island, and a 24 hour emergency line staffed in Germany and on Zanzibar. After your return you receive a certificate of participation.

Life at the wayers Home
You live at the wayers Home in Pwani Mchangani, exclusive to wayers participants, together with volunteers from other projects. That mix is what makes the house: people arrive at different times, work in different places, and meet again in the garden, at the pool, or over dinner. Most participants are between 18 and 25, and friendships form quickly and often last well beyond the trip.

Surroundings: Pwani Mchangani is a small fishing village on the east coast with the longest uninterrupted white sand beach on the island, just one minute on foot from the house. Kiwengwa lies to the south, Matemwe to the north, and the livelier beaches of Kendwa and Nungwi further up the coast. The village invites long walks at hakuna matata pace, and with a bit of luck you might even spot a whale shark.

Travel with Confidence
As a German tour operator with over 22 years of experience and more than 70,000 participants sent abroad, wayers supports you with visa guidance, insurance information, and a personal welcome on arrival, backed by a 24/7 emergency line in Germany and on the ground.