Boomers Abroad

Description

Participate in the social and academic development of young people in Venda, South Africa with a focus on teaching and childcare.

Volunteers will contribute their valuable time as teaching assistants and tutors in primary and secondary schools, and childcare workers in day care centres in Venda, South Africa. They will have the opportunity to be directly involved in the motivation and development of young people's lives and ultimately helping to bridge gaps and influence change in the 'New South Africa'.

Venda:
Volunteer work includes childcare at local pre-school or crèches, childrens homes, or day care centres. There is also the opportunity to work as teacher assistant at a primary and secondary schools in the Venda region. Volunteers may work in settings such as day care centres or "places of safety" in the community.

The town's Children's Home and certain foster home situations are referred to locally as "places of safety". As a volunteer, you can help by working with children ages 2-6, helping with general caretaking like handing out porridge and brushing teeth, teaching English, reading, writing and pronunciation. Simple mathematics and counting, body hygiene, crafts and educational games for younger children may be available as well. Volunteers will be able to use this time to display their mentoring experience, and motivate the students toward a positive future.

Volunteers with varying skills will be able to help in areas of academic and skill development through mentoring and tutoring activities. Currently there are schools in South Africa that struggle to meet their achievement goals, achieve specific skill sets, and motivate young people. There are many factors contributing to this challenge from high student to teacher ratio, lack of resources, and most important history. Volunteers can assists teachers in core subjects, such as English, mathematics, life skills, and science. The subjects will be relative to each school's needs; however the greatest need is typically in mathematics and science. There will be additional opportunities for tutoring, career development, and organizing extracurricular activities for students.

Soweto Project:
The school in Soweto caters to needy learners coming from poor communities. Volunteers must be prepared to either assist a local teacher or teach in classroom by themselves. Classed usually comprises of 40 students. Volunteers with varying skills will be able to help in areas of academic and skill development through mentoring and tutoring activities.

No teaching qualification is required, but experience in subject areas like English, Math, Health, Hygiene and Science. Volunteers are particularly encouraged to initiate extra curricular activities.

To apply for this program please visit our website.