Someone who loves children, can understand the needs of those with mobility problems and think of ways to give them a fun time.

Overview

Can you bring fun and laughter to the classroom along with something you love doing to run as an after school club? If so you would be perfect for our teaching placement in Kenya!

We have placements in schools in the centre of Kenya, in the Nanyuki area that could really do with your help in teaching English. And who better to teach English to the Kenyans than someone from England who is excited and enthusiastic about being in their country? The pupils are friendly and enthusiastic, despite the hardships of some of them. You’ll be impressed by how much the pupils and teachers achieve with so few resources.

The schools that you will teach in could be either a government primary school with a large special needs section with children from very poor backgrounds. Perhaps a private (but not rich) primary school that has some boarding facilities and also takes in Aids orphans. Or a dynamic state secondary school that prides itself on being self-sufficient (it has its own farm and vegetable patch and relies on solar power!).

What will I do?

You will help to teach a range of basic subjects and getting involved with extra-curricular subjects too. You can bring with you the activities that you are really passionate about; the kids just love learning about what you are interested in, especially if it is something practical like Music, Sport, Art or Theatre. They’ll love to try something new - and you’ll get so much more from your experience.

Where will I live?

The schools are located in and around Nanyuki in the Laikipia region, which is in the centre of Kenya around Mount Kenya (the second highest mountain in Kenya after Mount Kilimanjaro). It’s a beautiful part of Kenya that doesn’t get many visitors, situated right on the equator. Kenyans in this area are really making sure that this area is conserved well, meaning that it is a fantastic place to enjoy the African wildlife and scenery.

You will be living in your very own local accommodation that will be rented exclusively for Oyster volunteers. It will be basic but comfortable and you can really make it your own. This will be a great opportunity to practice your cooking skills and maybe you could even try making local dishes! It is also perfect for getting to know the other Oyster volunteers and planning lessons together to make some amazing lessons for the kids.

How can I spend my free time?

There will be plenty of other volunteers in the area, working on different Oyster projects who you can meet up and explore the area with (you will have already met them at the Pre Departure Course before you leave the UK).

There are loads of different activities you can get involved in to make the most of the amazing Kenyan countryside: climbing Mount Kenya, horse riding, hiking, river rafting or canoeing. Oyster can also provide a fantastic 3-day safari for you and the group for a comparatively small cost!

Oyster Worldwide Support

Our friendly UK team will be here to offer any advice and make sure that all the arrangements are in place before you go. We take pride in being a small and personal company who ensure that we get to know you before you go, and make sure you get everything you want from a gap year. Shortly before you leave you’ll meet the other volunteers in your group and receive thorough preparation in our fun 2-day UK pre-departure course.

Our local representative, Gill, will meet you at Nairobi airport when you arrive and settle you in to your projects. During the first few days of your stay she will provide an induction course with plenty of useful advice about life in Kenya. This will include a vital course in Swahili so that it is easier for you to communicate with the villagers. Gill will keep us updated on your progress and welfare and you will be able to turn to her for help with any problems you don’t feel able to sort by yourself.

Why Oyster?

We’re a small team of three who make sure that we focus on you and what you want from a gap year. We ensure that our placements are doing work that is needed and valued by the communities and countries we are involved in. We have had many years of experience in organising gap years and ensuring that our volunteers come back happy and healthy. From us you will receive challenging work, travel in a group, preparation and ongoing support.

But don’t just hear it from us. We can put you in touch with ex-participants who can tell you why it worked for them.

The Benefits ..

• You will have improved a whole class of children’s future prospects by improving their English.


• You will get to make some lifelong friends from your group


• You will have experienced a new and different culture.


• You will see the most amazing wildlife and landscapes of natural beauty.

Although our flights aren’t included in the price we will happily arrange them for you, for just £600!

0845 344 7615

We'll send you to places you've never been to try new things and meet new people - change the lives of street kids in Brazil, perfect your Spanish teaching in Chile or finance an amazing ski season working in a Canadian resort. Whatever you choose, we'll help you get it right!