Teaching or business development

Product Details

The Location:

The Republic of India is the world’s seventh largest country and with one billion inhabitants, the world’s largest democracy. The landscape contrasts from the mountainous Himalaya in the north to the flat plateau of the south. It has 18 major languages and more than a thousand dialects! While the majority of people are Hindu (82%), other major religions include Islam (11%) Christianity (2%), Sikhism (2%) and Buddhism (1%).

The region of Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful parts of the Himalayan foothills, with a long tradition as a 'hill station' much sought after by those living in the heat of the plains! The famous Darjeeling railway is one of the highest operating in the World, and Kalimpong itself is right on the border of Sikkim, famous for its beauty and isolation.

The Project:

Our volunteers are currently working in nine rural primary schools. Six of these are situated in small villages near to Kalimpong with gorgeous mountain views and the other three are closer to Darjeeling town itself.

Volunteers teach English and other subjects, depending on their interests and abilities. This could include sport, music, art or drama, which are very well received. The children are responsive and welcoming and the need is for enthusiasm and commitment from our volunteers, rather than formal qualifications. We offer an optional weekend short course in Oxford for those who feel they need extra teaching support. Qualified teachers are also welcome as they can assist with local teacher training.

In addition, volunteers can get involved with a local business venture promoting eco-tourism in the area surrounding Kalimpong and Darjeeling. This includes working with local people to advertise trekking routes in the picturesque hills.

In each country we have a local manager; we are very careful over security and health issues, and upon arrival you will be met at the airport by our manager and taken through an induction and to your placement to settle in.

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Our users say...

"Volunteers are totally involved in the village life so you learn about other worlds. The schools really need volunteers. It gives the children a link with a bigger world as well as giving them the opportunity to learn good English" - Graham Parkinson