Assist teaching staff at local primary and secondary schools in suburban neighbourhoods, all within a 30-minute commute from your accommodation. Each morning, you will travel to your assigned school using public buses or taxis. Your primary role will be to support local teachers by following their guidance and helping wherever needed.
Incorporate activities such as games, role-play, music, drama, and interactive storytelling. Your creativity will be a valuable asset in broadening students’ educational experiences and enhancing their enthusiasm for learning.
Subjects You Can Teach
Volunteers can assist in a variety of subjects, including:
- Music: Piano, violin, guitar, flute, and singing
- English: Beginner to intermediate levels
- Sports: Karate, football, baseball, basketball, and volleyball
- Arts: Sculpture, painting, and drawing
- Mathematics: Algebra, trigonometry, geometry, and arithmetic
- Dance: Various styles and techniques
Volunteer Tasks
Supporting Local Teachers
- Assist educators in English and other subject classes.
- Use interactive tools like games, songs, and activities to make learning engaging.
Organizing Extracurricular Activities
- Plan and oversee sports, arts, and recreational activities.
- Encourage holistic development through creative and physical engagement.
Creative Lesson Planning
- Develop innovative lesson plans that encourage student participation.
- Introduce new learning techniques to enhance classroom experiences.
Fostering Language Skills and Cultural Exchange
- Work with students aged 5 to 13 to improve their English proficiency.
- Share cultural insights to expand students’ global awareness.
Commitment and After-School Engagement
- Dedicate a minimum of five hours per day to teaching and assisting.
- Participate in after-school activities as needed to further support students.
Lesson Preparation and Classroom Enrichment
- Prepare structured lessons and materials for daily classes.
- Bring teaching aids such as books, games, art supplies, and cultural items to enrich the learning environment.
Your involvement in this program plays a crucial role in enhancing education for local children, fostering cross-cultural connections, and supporting dedicated teachers in the community. Your enthusiasm and creativity will leave a lasting impact on students, helping them develop essential skills and a love for learning.
Important Notes
- Volunteers should take initiative, as local teachers may not speak the same language.
- The schedule is subject to change based on weather, local conditions, and holidays.
School Holidays
Colombia’s school calendar for 2025 is generally divided into two main semesters:
1. First Semester:
○ Starts on January 27, 2025.
○ Includes a mid-semester Easter break from April 12–20, 2025.
○ Ends on June 20, 2025.
2. Second Semester:
○ Begins on July 14, 2025.
○ Includes a mid-semester break from October 4–13, 2025.
○ Concludes on December 5, 2025.
*Schools also have additional institutional development days for educators, including dates in January, April, July, and October.
Location
Cartagena, a vibrant coastal city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast, is renowned for its rich history, colourful colonial architecture, and lively cultural scene. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cartagena’s walled city is filled with cobblestone streets, historic forts, and charming plazas that offer a glimpse into its colonial past. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as Playa Blanca and Bocagrande, where visitors can relax and enjoy the tropical climate. Cartagena’s bustling markets, vibrant street art, and delicious local cuisine reflect its diverse cultural heritage.
Project Tasks
• Improve language skills for young learners
• Promote cross-cultural understanding through diverse perspectives and experiences.
• Provide valuable teaching experience for participants.
• Build leadership, communication, and adaptability skills.
• Assist teachers in creating a dynamic and interactive classroom.
• Contribute to a positive and engaging learning atmosphere.
Before entering or exiting Colombia, all travellers must complete a free online form ('Check-Mig') on the Migracion Colombia website. This form is free and must be completed on the Migracion Colombia website between 72 hours and one hour before your flight's departure. We recommend that you check the immigration and entry requirements for their nationality ahead of time.
