New Hope Volunteers

Since 1998, More than 18000 happy volunteers


Teaching English Project (Cape Town)

volunteer in teaching english project in cape town, south africa
  • Share your passion in teaching English to people from impoverished backgrounds
  • Work with local schools and help shape the futures of the students
  • Immerse in the local culture through carefully-screened homestays
  • Enjoy the world-renowned wildlife attractions, beautiful natural wonders and the diverse South African cultures in your downtime

Being one of the national languages of the country, English is a very important subject for young South Africans to learn. A good ability to read and write in English will mean they can secure seats in good schools and ultimately, get well-paid jobs. Unfortunately, rural schools in South Africa are resource-poor and lack enough skilled educators. The impoverished attend these schools, and improving the grasp of the English language is near impossible without proper guidance. New Hope partners up with various educational institutions in South Africa in order to fill in the gaps for the English teachers in the rural schools. The children will be excited to learn the language from an international volunteer, and the schools will be able to benefit from your help and teaching methods as well. Teach English in South Africa, and help the children of rural South Africa have a better future while enjoying the panoramic sceneries, famous wildlife, and fascinating culture blend of the country!

Volunteers' Responsibilities

As a volunteer teaching English in South Africa, you will be placed at the local schools and teach at a primary, middle or high school level. Depending on your individual interests and skills, and on the needs of the local staff, your daily activities involve, but are not limited to:

  • Teaching basic English to the students
  • Helping students to improve their Basic English and conversational skills
  • Supporting recreational and artistic activities focused on educational learning
  • Organizing and developing activities that encourage learning
  • Assisting the fulltime local teacher with class duties
  • Educating children regarding personal hygiene
  • Working alongside the local teachers on curriculum development
  • Assisting school administrations with daily tasks
  • Tutoring the students and help with their homework
How You Can Make a Difference

Rural schools in South Africa lack enough funds to deliver high quality education. Therefore, students in these schools face a bleak future as English is one of the national languages of South Africa and very important for students to master. English taught in the public schools is basic at best, and teachers do not have the proper training to teach correct pronunciation or grammar. With our volunteers, the students will be able to hold debates and discussions and this will help them to comprehend the language better through improved grammar and vocabulary. Your presence will encourage the students to speak English, and gradually build their confidence. If you’ve always been interested in teaching or wish to broaden your teaching experiences, there’s no better opportunity than to do so in a third world, rural setting.

Skills and Qualifications

There are no specific qualifications needed to join this project beyond a fluency in the written and spoken English language. However, your understanding of South African culture and diversity can help improve the experience for you and the students. Consider enrolling in our five-day Cultural Immersion & Information program. Volunteers should also be enthusiastic, reliable, flexible, patient and strive to be good role models for the children. Volunteers must also respect the locals and the host organizations, along with their rules and projects.

Project Location

The project is located in the capital city of South Africa, Cape Town. Not only is Cape Town South Africa’s second largest city, it is also the most popular tourist destination in all of Africa. Cape Town is the quintessential melting pot of South Africa; a city alive with creativity, color, sounds, and tastes. When strolling through the city streets of Cape Town, you will fall in love with the natural beauties that surround you, the creative freedom of the locals, and the ambiance of it all.

There is a lot to do and see in your free time in and around Cape Town. You can visit many popular sites such as Table Mountain National Park, City Bowl, various popular beaches, Chapman’s Peak Drive, The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Two Oceans Aquarium, and much more. You can also see places like Bo Kaap, a historical area inhabited by slaves from the Southeast, also known for colorful buildings, quaint streets, mosques, and the prettiest views of Cape Town. The Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving building is another attraction you can visit. There is also the Kistenbosch botanical gardens and Robben Island, two ocean aquariums if you are into glimpsing wildlife and water. You will never get tired of visiting and exploring the beautiful city! If your weekends are free, you can also take trips to the wine countries like Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Frankschoek.

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