Volunteer Teaching in South Africa - Cape Town

Overview

The Volunteer Teaching program in Cape Town focuses on supporting trained local teachers in their daily efforts to educate and empower children in disadvantaged communities.. Volunteers are placed in primary schools, in the suburban areas of Cape Town.

In Cape Town, a significant challenge arises from a lack of funding, resources, and infrastructure, resulting in inadequate basic skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic, particularly in the townships. These areas are often overcrowded, with both locals and migrants, and the few schools available struggle to accommodate the high number of students. To address this, many middle-income schools have opened their doors to these children, providing transportation and implementing feeding schemes to ensure that students are not learning on empty stomachs.

While this initiative offers crucial support, it has also led to high teacher-student ratios, with many classes now consisting of 40-45 children per teacher. Additionally, students from diverse communities often have varying learning abilities, with many needing individual attention. This presents significant challenges for teachers, which is where our volunteers play a vital role.

Volunteers work alongside the local teachers and also occasionally teach a class on their own with no supervision.

Volunteers need to note that this project is closed during school holidays. Please refer to the Program Arrival/Start Dates given below. Please note that during exam times (which is usually two weeks before school closes for holidays) your working hours may be less due to learners writing their examinations.

Sample Placement Profile - Belthorn Primary School

The Teaching Placement is located in a lower middle class area just outside the boundaries of Cape Town. The school currently has approximately 430 students for grades R-7 (aged 6 – 13yrs). The primary school is located in the community of Athlone.

It accommodates children from various backgrounds, including the surrounding informal settlements (called Townships) like Gugulethu, Langa and Khayelitsha. Some of the learners come from middle-class families and others from very poor families. Initially you will need to observe and get to know your environment and the structure of the school. It is advisable to do some reading about the South African School system and to acquaint yourself with the challenges that the educational system is currently facing. This is a mainly English speaking primary school but some learners are Afrikaans or Xhosa-speaking.

Volunteers Work Schedule

A typical volunteer schedule in Cape Town varies based on the chosen accommodation.Volunteering Solutions offers options to stay with a local host family or in a volunteer house.Volunteers can select between these two types of accommodations.The volunteer schedule generally follows this structure:

Sunday - Arrival at Cape Town (all volunteers stay in volunteer house for the first day)
Monday - Orientation + transfer to the host family accommodation, if opted for.Orientation session will be conducted by the local coordinator, covering topic areas; such as safety,culture,language,places to visit,behavior,food, and other suggestions over things to do in South Africa.
Tuesday to Fri - Volunteer work
Breakfast - 06:30 am to 07:30 am (provided at the accommodation)
Leave for the project - 07:30 am
Working hours at the placement - 08:00 am to 03:00 pm
Lunch - 12:30 pm to 02:00 onwards (volunteers staying in the volunteer house need to manage lunch on their own)
Dinner - 06:00 pm onwards (at host family accommodation)

Volunteers living at volunteer house accommodation eat out at a nearby restaurant or cook it with other volunteers at the accommodation.

The same volunteer work schedule continues from the second week onwards.

Weekends - Free to explore the city, and do activities such as climbing Table Mountain or going to Robben Island or taking part in weekend tours.

Note: Please note, the schedule may vary depending on the particular project the volunteer is participating on.

Volunteers Roles & Responsibilities

The generic list of tasks of the volunteers under the teaching volunteer program includes;

Taking classes for students in primary, secondary, and even nursery schools
Lesson planning and execution, according to the school programme
Assist in-house teachers in conducting classes and other administrative works
Assist with fundraising and annual functions/events
Involve students in out–of–the–class activities to teach them the importance of physical activity
Substitute for the main teacher when required

Project Requirement

Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the time of joining the project. Participants should have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment. Volunteers need to be flexible, open-minded and have a passion for working with children. You should also be proactive and have an ability to take initiative. All volunteers must provide a clean criminal background check report prior to joining the program.

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Living

Airport Transfer
Volunteers are picked up from the Cape Town International Airport by a representative and transferred to the volunteers hostel accommodation by a shuttle transfer. Those volunteers who are arriving overland or are already in South Africa will have to arrive at the accommodation on their own and will not be provided with a pickup.

Orientation
All volunteers are housed at the volunteer house/hostel during the orientation period, unless otherwise stated. On the first Monday of your program, you will have an introduction/orientation session – this includes a chat with the local volunteer coordinator, covering topics such as living in and interacting with Cape Town culture, traditions, people, etc., general safety, volunteer projects and duties.

Accommodation
Volunteering Solutions arranges accommodation for volunteers in a Volunteer hostel or in home stays in local communities. The Volunteer hostel is a dormitory-style accommodation situated in the Observatory area of Cape Town.The rooms in the hostel typically have 4-8 people per room.The Observatory accommodation is located in a beautiful suburb of Cape Town, about 20 minutes from the city centre. The hostel is perfectly situated close to shops, restaurants, public transport, and some of the best beaches in the world! The areas are also very safe.

Living in the hostel is a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” because you will meet and live with many other volunteers from all over the globe. It’s a great opportunity to make lifelong friends and learn about different cultures. Each day you will travel to your project, usually by minibus taxi which is a very cheap and efficient way to travel in Cape Town, and is also a lot of fun! After you finish your project for the day you usually spend your evenings doing different activities with the other volunteers in the house like, movie nights in the lounge or having a braai, which is a South African barbecue.

The Volunteer House provides a clean, comfortable, safe and secure living-environment for all our volunteers – the house is strictly used for the program participants and not open to members of the public.

The volunteer house boasts the following amenities for volunteer’s comfort and safety:

Backpacker-style dorm rooms sleeping between 4 – 8 per room
Lockers are provided to keep valuables safe (please provide your own padlock)
Strictly controlled access (all gates fitted with electronic keypad access)
2 TV Rooms / Lounges with full cable and smart TV (various movie, sport & music channels)
2 fully-equipped kitchens (fridge, stove, microwave, kettle, cutlery, crockery, etc.)
Communal Showers and Toilets
Indoor and Outdoor braai/barbecue facilities
Pool Table, Table-Tennis table and dart-board
Hi-Speed uncapped Wi-Fi (a local SIM card will be provided for mobile data when outside the house)
On-site Hostel manager and daily cleaning staff

We provide volunteers with the option to stay with a host family in one of Cape Town’s vibrant local communities, located about 30 minutes from the city centre. This arrangement offers a deeper cultural experience, allowing volunteers to immerse themselves in the daily life of a local family. Most projects are within walking distance, and public transport is readily available. Some host families may even offer transportation to and from the projects. Three meals per day are included in the stay.On the weekends you can either spend your leisure time with your host family or book yourself into a backpacker in town to explore the city centre during the day and experience Cape Town nightlife.

Volunteers staying four weeks or longer have the option to split their time between the volunteer house and a host family. Keep in mind that this arrangement may require transitioning to a different project.

Meals
Volunteers staying at the hostel accommodation are provided with self-service breakfast at the hostel on weekdays (Monday – Friday).Supplies such as cereals,eggs,bread with various toppings, coffee/tea, selection of fruits are provided.Lunch, dinner and weekend meals are not included but can be eaten out at any of the affordable eateries or ordered to home as well. Volunteers can also purchase supplies locally and prepare meals in the house kitchen.

For those staying in a host family, you will be provided 3 meals a day, prepared by your host. Breakfast before your project, a packed lunch to take with you and a delicious home cooked meal for dinner.

During your Free Time
Cape Town has so much to offer for travellers and there is a lot to do on the weekends and during the free time. Volunteers usually take the Garden Route tours on the weekend or explore the beautiful beaches of Cape Town. You can also do a full day Cape Point Tour and head south to Cape of Good Hope. On a free day you can trek Table Mountain or just chill out at the Waterfront area. There is a lot to do and you will never have a dull day in the beautiful city of Cape Town. You have the option to book your weekend trip in South Africa from the add on tour options provided.

Dates

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Costs

Duration	Program Fee	Choose your currency
2 Weeks	$525
3 Weeks	$700
4 Weeks	$900
5 Weeks	$1050
6 Weeks	$1335
7 Weeks	$1500
8 Weeks	$1755
Extra Week	$220

Please Note: An application fee of is charged over and above the program fee as an application payment.

What are you Paying For?

24 hrs Assistance and support from Staff
Comprehensive Pre- Departure Information
Airport Pickup from Cape Town International Airport
Orientation
Meals (Depending on the type of accommodation)
Accommodation in Volunteer house or host family
Travel & Medical Insurance (Available at an extra cost)

What's NOT Included?

Airfare
Visa Fee
Return Airport Drop(Can be arranged at extra cost)
Daily Project Transportation
Vaccinations

FAQ's

Application and Program Details

When should I apply for the volunteer programs in Cape Town, South Africa?: It is advised to apply for the projects once the volunteering/ traveling dates are decided as there are limited spots available. We majorly follow the first come first serve policy. As soon as you decide the travel dates, we suggest you apply for the program and hold your spot.
I haven’t traveled or volunteered abroad before. Can I still be a part of VolSol?: Yes, most definitely you can as we believe every participant brings something new to the project. If you do not have previous experience, we offer you the opportunity to have a great start with us. We make international volunteering easy – not only are our Volunteer Abroad opportunities rooted in offering you extensive support, but they are also very affordable.
How long will it take to process my application? Will my application be accepted?: Usually, it takes around 10-12 working days for the application to be processed and placement to be confirmed. After we review your CV and documents, your booking is confirmed and the booking confirmation will be updated in your My Account and you can view the information in your account. The application acceptance depends on the availability of seats in the project as well as the eligibility criteria of the program (age, skills and experience etc.).
Does VolSol provides with a reference or a certificate after program completion?: Yes, we will provide you with the Certificate after successful completion of your program. The Certificate is provided on request.
Are there any necessary requirements to participate in the Cape Town, South Africa volunteer programs?: Below are the necessary requirements to participate in the Cape Town, South Africa volunteer projects:

Volunteers must be 18 years or older at the time of joining the project.

Volunteers joining the medical volunteer project must be either Pre-Medical, Medical or Nursing student or possess other qualifications related to medical and nursing field such as CNA or EMT. Medical professionals such as doctors and nurses are also welcome to join the program.

The participants need to have an open mind and flexible attitude for working in a new and different environment.

The volunteer should bring energy and enthusiasm to make a difference.

Clean Criminal Background Check Report for participants joining Childcare and Teaching Projects.

The participant must be in good health.
When do I need to arrive in Cape Town for my program? What will happen once I arrive in Cape Town?: All volunteers need to arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) on the program starting date i.e Sunday.

The assigned driver from a backpacker airport pickup service would be waiting for you with a signboard in the arrivals area and you would then be transferred to a hostel accommodation in the city. A brief orientation session takes place on Monday morning.
For how many hours do I have to volunteer in a day?: Volunteers usually work for 4 to 6 hours a day depending on their program. You will have weekends off to travel. However, volunteers need to be flexible, open minded and understand that work requirements can change as well on certain occasions.
Can I volunteer as part of a group?: Yes, you are welcome to take part in South Africa Volunteer Program as part of a group. We welcome families, friends, high school students, college/university and corporate groups to volunteer together in the volunteering programs. Volunteering Solutions has hosted large student groups as well as families coming to volunteer in the program. We have hosted groups from universities in the UK, the USA as well as other countries.
What are the Program Locations in Cape Town?: The projects are placed in and around Cape Town. The city is located with one of the most stunning backdrops of Table Mountain and offers beautiful beach locations and countryside. Cape Town is one of the most popular destinations in South Africa and is also very cosmopolitan with people of different religions, race, and beliefs living together in the city.

Volunteers in Cape Town work in the city as well as in many different community suburbs such as Grassy Park, Athlone, Philippi, Mitchells Plain, and Belville. Projects are located close to city center as well as in suburban areas and townships.

Flights and Visa

Does Volunteering Solutions help with Visa?: All travelers traveling to South Africa should have a valid visa.The citizens from most of the European (including the UK & Ireland), African and South American countries as well as the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand do NOT need to obtain a Visa beforehand and can stay in the country for a period up to 90 days. However, you must have a passport valid for at least 6 months period.

All participants joining the South Africa volunteer projects for more than 90 days, need to apply for volunteer visa at the nearest South African Embassy or Consulate. Along with the visa application, you need to attach the required supporting documents. Volunteers are provided with the necessary supporting document for their South African visa application. More detailed information shall be provided after you become a Volunteering Solutions’ enrolled participant.
What are the recommended airlines to fly to Cape Town, South Africa?: Cape Town International Airport (CPT) is very well connected and has direct flight connections from European, Middle East, African and some Asian destinations.

South African Airways, KLM Dutch Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, British Airways, Lufthansa, Kenya Airways, Condor Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Air France and Singapore Airlines are? some of the major airlines that have direct connections to Cape Town.

Accommodation and Living

How do I get to the program location?: Your program coordinator or a member of the local coordinating team will take you to your placement and introduce you to everyone after giving you a basic orientation about the program/city/culture etc. You will be told about the directions to the project from your accommodation and the mode of transport which you can use. Most preferred mode of transport within the town is the Public Bus, taxis. The coordinator will be happy to guide you regarding anything that you need to know.
Can vegetarians be accommodated?: Yes, however, you must inform us in advance and also mention about any dietary requirement in your application form.
Where can I change my money in Cape Town? Are there ATMs in the city?: On arrival, you can change your foreign currency into South African Rands (ZAR) from the Cape Town International Airport. South Africa has a modern banking system and there is an abundance of ATMs and foreign exchange outlets in the city.
Can I know more about accommodation and food arrangements?: Volunteers in Cape Town are provided accommodation in a volunteer house/ hostel or in homestays in suburbs and communities. The volunteer house/ hostel is centrally located, close to the city center as well as to many cafes, restaurants, and delis. Living in the volunteer hostel is a great opportunity to meet other like-minded volunteers from around the world.

Volunteers staying at the hostel accommodation are provided with self-service breakfast at the hostel on weekdays (Monday – Friday).Supplies such as cereals,eggs,bread with various toppings, coffee/tea, selection of fruits are provided.Lunch, dinner and weekend meals are not included but can be eaten out at any of the affordable eateries or ordered to home as well. Volunteers can also purchase supplies locally and prepare meals in the house kitchen.

For those staying in a host family, you will be provided 3 meals a day, prepared by your host. Breakfast before your project, a packed lunch to take with you and a delicious home cooked meal for dinner.
Would I have free time during my program? Can I do sightseeing during my program?: Depending on your project placement, you will get evenings and the weekends free, to travel and explore the places. In the evenings, volunteers usually get together and go out for social gatherings, eat out or just relax at the volunteer house. Weekends are free and you can go for short weekend trips.There is a lot to do in Cape Town and you will never experience a dull moment in the city. You can explore the city and go to different places such as Bo-Kaap, Robben Island, climb the Table Mountain or just relax at one of the beautiful beaches in the city. You can also take the Western Cape tour and explore the beautiful wine lands. Get in touch with the country coordinator and know more about the places you can travel to.
Can I know more about the home-stay facilities?: While staying with a host family during volunteering in South Africa, you will live in one of the local communities of Cape Town. There you will experience life in a typical South African family, which will be a great cultural experience. You will be provided 3 meals a day, prepared by your host – Breakfast before your project, a packed lunch to take with you and a delicious home cooked meal for dinner.
What if I have my own accommodation? Can I still volunteer for the project?: Unfortunately the entire volunteering experience is as much about volunteering on your project, as it is about cross-cultural exchange and community building. A lot of that happens through the housing that we have set up by being with like-minded people. Additionally, for safety reasons all volunteers must live in the allotted accommodation.
Are there more expenses once I arrive in South Africa?: Your program fee does not cover your personal expenses. You will need to provide for yourself your personal expenses, such as bottled water, local transport, telephone, shopping, sightseeing etc. However, you should carry around $70-$80 per week for your basic personal expenses. This amount can vary and you would need a higher amount if you choose to go on weekend trips out of town.

Connect with Past Volunteers

How can I connect with past Volunteering Solutions South Africa alumni as well as other former and current volunteers?: We encourage volunteers to get in touch with former Volunteering Solutions South Africa program participants and also other program participants joining our projects. You are recommended to join the Volunteering">https://www.facebook.com/VolunteeringSolutions/">Volunteering Solutions Facebook Page or Facebook">https://www.facebook.com/groups/VolunteeringSolutions/">Facebook Group to communicate with other participants.

To read alumni interviews from past participants, visit ?the Meet">https://www.volunteeringsolutions.com/meet-a-volunteer">Meet a Volunteer page on our website.

Health and Safety

How safe is South Africa and Cape Town in particular?: Cape Town is a safe city and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. It has been rated as one of the best places to visit in the world by New York Times in 2014 and receives millions of tourists every year. As in any major metropolis around the world, you need to take general precautions for safety. You will be given safety precautions and instructions by the local coordinator team during the orientation as well as in your Pre-departure handbook after you become an enrolled participant.
Do I need to buy a health insurance?: Yes, for all participants, it is mandatory to have a valid travel medical insurance for their trip. Volunteers have the option to purchase Travel and Medical Insurance at a nominal extra cost from Volunteering Solutions. To provide the best option to our participants, we offer comprehensive insurance coverage in collaboration with a leading insurance provider.

If you already have a valid Travel and Medical insurance, you can email us a copy of the same. It is also advised to bring along the Insurance documents during your trip.
What immunizations/vaccinations will I need?: All participants are recommended to consult their physician or travel doctor before traveling to South Africa. To view the general list of vaccinations recommended for your travel to South Africa,https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/south-africa">; click here.