Volunteer Program Overview
Help make a real impact in Kandy, Sri Lanka, with a community-based education volunteer programme. You’ll support local teachers, assist in special needs classrooms, and help adults improve their English. Each day offers rewarding interactions, from early lessons with kindergarten children to teaching in rural schools with limited resources and boosting adult learners’ confidence in everyday communication.
- 13 nights accommodation in shared standard rooms
- Arrival Pick Up (within designated times)
- Transport for volunteering program as per schedule
- 3 good sized meals on weekdays and 2 meals on weekends
- All equipment required teaching
- Full training and supervision by an experienced local project coordinator
- Local team support 24/7
- Sri Lankan cultural lesson and country introduction
- Local area tour
- Ongoing travel support and discounted tours across Southeast Asia
Join us in Kandy, Sri Lanka and become part of a community-focused education programme that makes a genuine difference. As a volunteer, you will work alongside local teachers to support young learners, assist in special needs classrooms and help adults build confidence in their English skills.
Every day brings meaningful interactions — from guiding kindergarten students through their first English lessons, to supporting village children who have limited access to language education, to helping adults improve their communication skills for work and everyday life.
This programme is not just about teaching. It is about connection, cultural exchange and empowerment. Your time and enthusiasm help create inclusive learning environments where students of all ages feel encouraged and supported in their education journey.
What Will I Actually Be Doing?
Volunteers assist local teachers in a variety of educational settings around Kandy. Placements may vary depending on community needs, giving you the opportunity to work with different age groups and learning environments.
- Teaching conversational English to preschool and kindergarten students
- Supporting local teachers with lesson planning and classroom activities
- Helping children learn through games, songs, art and creative activities
- Teaching English to adults who want to improve job opportunities
- Supporting village education programmes where children have limited access to English lessons
You will typically volunteer for around 4 to 5 hours per day. No teaching qualification is required and volunteers receive guidance from local coordinators and teachers throughout the programme.
Teaching Placements
Preschool and Kindergarten
Assist teachers in early childhood classrooms by introducing basic English through songs, games, storytelling and creative activities. Volunteers help create a fun and engaging environment for young learners.
Village Kids Education
Teach English to children in local village communities who may not have access to private language education. Classes usually run for one to two hours in the afternoon and focus on conversational English and interactive learning.
Teaching English to Adults
Support adults who want to improve their English speaking and writing skills. These lessons help participants build confidence and improve employment opportunities in Sri Lanka.
Depending on availability, volunteers may also assist at special needs schools or help teach English to Buddhist monks studying in local temples.
Is This Ethical and Legitimate?
This programme works directly with local schools and community organisations in and around Kandy. Volunteers support existing teachers rather than replacing them, helping provide additional attention and learning support for students.
All placements are managed by experienced local coordinators who ensure the programme aligns with community needs and supports sustainable education initiatives.
Volunteers on the Kandy Teaching Volunteer Program typically work Monday to Friday for approximately 4 to 5 hours per day. Your placement will depend on availability and community needs at the time of your arrival. The programme is designed to give you a meaningful teaching experience while allowing plenty of time to explore the culture and beauty of Sri Lanka.
Sunday Arrival
This Kandy education and teaching volunteer programme includes an airport pick up on Sundays from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) near Negombo.
Volunteers should arrive on Sunday between 06:00 and 20:00 in order to join the scheduled transfer to Kandy. If you arrive on Saturday you will need to book one additional night of accommodation before the programme begins.
Please make sure you provide your arrival date, flight number and arrival time in advance so we can organise your airport transfer. Your programme officially begins on Monday, however accommodation starts from Sunday so you have time to settle in, meet other volunteers and prepare for your first day.
Monday Orientation and Introduction
Your first full day begins with an orientation session led by the local programme coordinators. You will be introduced to the volunteer house rules, health and safety guidance and practical information for living in Sri Lanka.
The orientation also includes an introduction to Sri Lankan culture, customs and etiquette so you feel comfortable interacting with the local community. You may also receive basic language tips and an overview of your teaching placement.
During the afternoon you will visit your placement location and meet the teachers or community coordinators you will be working alongside throughout the programme.
Tuesday to Friday Teaching Activities
Volunteers typically teach for around 4 to 5 hours per day depending on the schedule of the school or community programme. Each morning or afternoon you will travel to your placement and work alongside local teachers or community leaders.
Possible placements include:
- Preschool / Kindergarten: Introduce English through songs, games, storytelling, art and creative classroom activities while assisting local teachers with lesson planning and classroom support.
- Teaching Adults: Help adults improve spoken and written English, focusing on communication skills that support employment opportunities and everyday interactions.
- Village Kids: Teach English to children in rural village homes or community centres. Classes usually run for one to two hours in the afternoon and focus on conversational learning.
- Other Placements (availability dependent): Volunteers may also have the opportunity to teach Buddhist monks or assist at local special needs schools.
Your role may include preparing simple lesson plans, leading games and educational activities, assisting with classroom management and helping students build confidence in speaking English.
Typical Daily Flow
Morning: Breakfast at the volunteer accommodation followed by travel to your teaching placement.
Midday: Teaching sessions with children or adults alongside local teachers and coordinators.
Afternoon: Additional lessons, lesson planning or free time depending on the placement schedule.
Evening: Free time to relax, explore Kandy, visit local restaurants or spend time with fellow volunteers.
Free Time and Weekends
Evenings and weekends are typically free for you to explore the surrounding region. Kandy is one of Sri Lanka’s cultural capitals and offers many incredible experiences including temples, scenic hill country views, tea plantations and wildlife excursions.
Many volunteers use weekends to visit attractions such as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, nearby tea plantations, waterfalls or national parks.
Important Notes
- During school holidays, teaching schedules may increase depending on community demand.
- Placements are assigned based on local needs and availability at the time of arrival.
- Daily schedules may change due to weather, local conditions or unforeseen circumstances.
How to Apply
Applying for the Cambodia Community Construction Volunteer Program is straightforward. Our programs operate on an application basis to ensure the right fit between volunteers and the community projects we support.
Once you have reviewed the program information and chosen your preferred start date, simply complete the short application form on this page and provide the required details. Our team will review your application and contact you to confirm availability and answer any questions you may have.
After your application has been accepted, you can secure your place on the program by paying the program deposit. Your remaining program balance will be due 45 days before your departure date.
This program runs every week throughout 2026 and 2027, giving you flexibility to choose dates that work best for your travel plans.
Application Process
- Complete the application form on this page and include your preferred start date.
- Our team will review your application and confirm placement availability.
- Secure your place by paying the program deposit.
- Receive your confirmation details and pre-departure information.
- Pay your remaining program balance 45 days before departure.
Before You Travel
Once your place is confirmed, you can begin preparing for your volunteer experience:
- Book your international flights to Siem Reap (not included)
- Arrange your travel insurance and visa if required
- Provide your flight details so we can organise your airport transfer
Arrival Information
You should arrive on Sunday before your program begins. Sunday night accommodation is included so you have time to settle in before your first day.
Departure transfers are not included but can be arranged locally or pre-booked before the end of your program if required.
This programme is open to participants from a wide range of backgrounds. No formal teaching qualifications are required to join the Kandy Teaching Volunteer Program. The most important qualities are enthusiasm, patience, and a genuine interest in supporting education within local communities.
Basic Requirements:
- Minimum English level: Basic conversational English is required to communicate with students, teachers, and fellow volunteers.
- Police Check: A CRB or police background check is required during the signup process.
- Passport: A valid passport copy must be provided prior to arrival.
- Teaching Qualifications: No formal teaching qualifications or experience are required.
Additional Requirements:
- Medical Clearance: Participants over the age of 65 must provide a doctor’s note confirming they are fit to travel and participate in the programme.
- Parental Consent: Participants under the age of 18 must provide signed parental consent. Travelling with an adult or guardian is strongly recommended.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance covering the full duration of your stay is mandatory.
Health & Vaccination Recommendations:
While vaccinations are not mandatory, travellers visiting Sri Lanka are commonly advised to consult their doctor or travel clinic before departure. Recommended vaccinations may include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Polio.
There is no mandatory equipment required for this programme. However, volunteers are welcome to bring small teaching supplies such as books, flash cards, colouring materials, games, or other educational resources that may help support classroom activities.
