Teaching Volunteer Program

Teaching English, mathematics and other subjects in Uganda will inevitably increase employment opportunities, reduce illiteracy and ultimately assist local people to become economically independent. Teaching volunteers will work alongside local teachers to improve participatory teaching methods, classroom management, assessments and gender equality in the classroom. Volunteers will also help develop nursery and primary education projects focusing on early-childhood development, literacy and health education.

As a teaching volunteer, you may teach Reading, conversational English, mathematics, geography, science, social studies or supervise homework and provide individualized attention to students falling behind in class. Ugandan students of all ages and backgrounds appreciate the opportunity to interact with fluent English speakers. You do not have to be a qualified or experienced teacher to join the project, and you are sure to receive a warm welcome from the local schools we work with who are eager to have our volunteers.

Whether you want to volunteer abroad by teaching during your gap year, career break, or vacation you will have a role to play, and your efforts will make a lasting impact. The teaching placement is in kindergarten, lower grades and primary schools in Nangabo sub-county, in the pri-urban areas of Kampala City and at Buyiga Island. Volunteers with personal experience in special education can also bring their skills and initiatives to bear as they help create lesson plans and activities for their unique lessons. You will as well gain hands-on experience and have lots of fun working in this project.

Your valuable role as a teaching volunteer will make a significant impact on the lives of children in local schools with limited resources, help build their confidence and individual potential outside the classroom. Volunteers will receive support from the SAF staff and the local school teachers regarding the lesson plans and teaching curriculum. All of our placement schools welcome volunteers who express interest in other aspects of school activities like sports, drama, arts and music.

As a volunteer on this project, you will work from Monday to Friday for seven hours in a day, with weekends off so you can explore your new community, visit some beautiful Ugandan attractions and explore nearby areas. You are welcome to bring along teaching materials such as picture books, instruments, flash cards, art supplies, and songs. Classes are generally in session five days a week.

Role of the Teaching volunteer
• The volunteers play an integral role in achieving the goals of this project. Volunteers provide language classes in English language and Numeracy.
• They will work with the local teachers to deliver the curriculum.
• They will help the students and adults improve their pronunciation, conversational skills and counting skills.
• Volunteers will be given the freedom to create and carry out their own lessons. The volunteers’ willingness to share and be proactive in their role will make a valuable addition to any classroom.
• Plan the course of study with the learner(s)
• Devote some personal time to preparation as required
• Meet regularly with the learner(s)
• Assume the role of tutor/facilitator rather than counsellor
• Communicate regularly with the coordinator on learner's progress
• Discuss learner and/or program concerns with the coordinator
• Assist in the planning and evaluation of the program