Quick Facts
Program code
EC-VOL121
Category
Volunteer Work, Education/Teaching, Child Care
Country
Ecuador
Location
Quito, Region Pichincha
Program start
Flexible start and end dates throughout the year, taking into account the local school year from September to the end of June. School holidays also apply over Christmas/New Year.
Minimum duration
2 weeks
Minimum age
18 years
Contact us
Happy to help you
+49 151 41300782
+56 9 7516 9816
8 am - 4 pm EST
info@southamerica-inside.com
WhatsApp
+49 151 41300782
+56 9 7516 9816
Project details
Volunteering at the public school in the Vicentina district of Quito, Ecuador, is a wonderful opportunity to make a positive impact on children's lives. Here, you'll have the chance to work in a dynamic environment characterized by a vibrant mix of cultures and languages. The school, which has been operating for over two decades, educates approximately 240 students from elementary to high school.
As a volunteer, you'll be more than just a teacher; you'll also be a friend and mentor to the students. You'll have the opportunity to teach across different grade levels and contribute your creative ideas to the lessons. The teachers are dedicated and appreciate the support you can offer. Together, you can bring the lessons to life by planning interactive activities that make learning exciting and engaging.
Direct interaction with the students will allow you to better understand and respond to their individual needs. You'll quickly see how much the children benefit from extra attention and support. Whether it's about improving language skills, explaining mathematical concepts, or simply lending a listening ear – your contribution is valuable and appreciated.
In addition to supporting students in the classroom, volunteering also fosters cultural exchange. You bring your own experiences and perspectives while simultaneously learning about the local culture and traditions. This mutual enrichment creates an inspiring atmosphere where both you and the students can learn from each other.
Overall, volunteering at this school is not only an opportunity to contribute your skills and talents, but also a chance to gain unforgettable experiences and forge new friendships. If you enjoy supporting children in their linguistic and personal development, you will have an inspiring and enriching time in Quito, Ecuador.
Tasks
Want to make a real difference? Become a volunteer at a school in Quito, Ecuador! Together with the teachers, volunteers make lessons engaging and effective for the students. If you have a good command of English, this is the perfect opportunity – the focus is on English. This also allows volunteers whose Spanish skills aren't yet strong to participate. Volunteers work closely with the English teacher. Do you have solid Spanish skills? Then you can also support subjects like math, physics, or chemistry.
Your main task would be to actively assist the teachers in preparing lessons and creating materials. A particular focus is placed on English lessons. Here, you can help the kids expand their vocabulary, improve their pronunciation, and encourage them to overcome any apprehension they may have about the language. With varied and playful activities, learning becomes much more enjoyable. It's not just about speaking, but also about listening, reading, writing, and the language system itself.
But you're not just needed during class time: you'll be there for the students during breaks. This is a great opportunity to support them outside of class as well. If you're really dedicated, you can even get involved in the afternoons, for example, with homework or sports activities – this way you not only support their learning but also strengthen the school community.
Classes take place in the morning from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. In the afternoons, you're free to explore the cool city of Quito at your leisure – whether you're interested in culture or adventure, there's plenty to discover! Sounds exciting? Then this is the perfect match for you!
Note: The tasks may vary. They depend on factors such as the number of volunteers, time of year, current needs of the project and self-motivation. Not every volunteer may be fully involved in all these tasks.
Accommodation
In Ecuador, a cultural experience awaits you in carefully selected homestays. Here, you can not only immerse yourself in the local culture but also practice your Spanish in everyday situations. Rooms are available as twin rooms, and you can book a single room for a small additional fee. Depending on the accommodation, you will have access to either a private or shared bathroom.
The volunteer program includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and we are happy to accommodate special dietary needs. This way, you can discover the diversity of Ecuadorian cuisine and feel completely at ease!
Note: In Latin America, especially in remote areas where many of our volunteer projects take place, the cellular or internet connection is not always reliable and fast.
Location
The volunteer placement in northern Quito is easily accessible and offers a great opportunity to get to know the city and its surroundings. Its proximity to the large Vacas Galindo Park makes it ideal for relaxing walks or sports activities after work. Quito's public transportation system is excellent, so you can easily get from your homestay to the volunteer placement.
Quito enjoys a pleasant, temperate climate. With an average temperature of around 13°C (55°F) and daytime highs between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C (77°F), you can expect weather that's perfect for exploring. While the rainy seasons from September to November and from January to April bring occasional showers, don't worry – it often only rains briefly, and the sun quickly reappears. An umbrella or a light jacket is always a good idea, though.
The city not only boasts an impressive location at the foot of the Pichincha volcano but also captivates visitors with its rich historical heritage. Quito's city center is a true gem. The well-preserved buildings and squares from the 16th century tell stories from the Inca and colonial periods. A stroll through the streets feels like a journey into the past, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation underscores just how special this place is.
But Quito has so much more to offer! The nightlife is vibrant and diverse. You can go dancing in one of the many bars or clubs, or simply enjoy a drink with friends. The markets are also a highlight – here you'll find local produce, handicrafts, and delicious snacks. The city's museums and theaters offer a wide range of cultural experiences that are interesting for both locals and visitors.
If you love nature, you'll love the surrounding Andean landscapes. Day trips into the mountains offer breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking or biking. Whether you're seeking the tranquility of nature or want to experience the vibrant city life, Quito has something for everyone.
Language skills
If you only want to participate in the volunteer work as an assistant teacher in English, very good English skills are sufficient.
However, we always recommend having at least basic Spanish skills as well, so that cultural integration can take place outside of the volunteer work as well.
In order to optimally prepare for your volunteer work in Ecuador, we advise you to take a Spanish course before the start of the program. This gives you the opportunity to slowly get used to the national language, culture and mentality.
You can book your Spanish course in Ecuador directly with us!
Requirements
- Very good English skills
- Minimum age 18 years
- Completion of a foreign travel health insurance (get your travel insurance here!)
- Application at least 4 weeks before the desired start of the program. Read more about our application process here.)
Pre-departure and in-country support
Before arrival, our experienced team will be at your disposal to assist you throughout the booking process and travel planning. With the booking confirmation you will receive our 24-hour emergency number, so that you can reach us 24/7 in case of emergency.
In addition to the assistance given by our office staff you will be supported by our volunteer coordinators located in Quito.
Costs & Services
Our volunteer work as assistant teacher in Quito, Ecuador includes:
- Single or twin room in homestay*
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
- Advice from our experienced staff
- On-going support via WhatsApp, phone or mail
- Elaboration of your application profile in Spanish
- Your placement in the volunteer project
- Pre-departure information
- Packing list
- Country handbook
- Intercultural guide
- Orientation upon arrival
- On-site volunteer coordinator
- 24/7 emergency number
- Advice on travel insurance
- Certificate of participation
Costs
Application fee: US$ 150
Program fee: US$ 845 (minimum stay 2 weeks)
Each additional week: US$ 200
*surcharge for single room US$ 35/week.
Additionally, you can book:
- Airport pick-up US$ 40
- Spanish course in Ecuador
- Spanish courses in Latin America
- Travel Health Insurance
Our tips (experience more + see more = save $$)
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All our stay abroad programs can be combined with each other: So, you can combine different volunteer projects in the same country or in different countries, or you mix Working Holiday with volunteer work or Farm Stay with Working Holiday ...and so on …
Your creativity knows no limits. The longer your stay abroad in Latin America, the greater the discount you get from South America Inside. Below you can see how much you can save:
If you need assistance in putting together your personal experience abroad, then please contact us. Our experienced staff will help you to set up your tailor-made stay abroad.
Volunteer Guide
Find valuable information about volunteering abroad in our program guides. Find out about all the benefits, possibilities and challenges, that a stay abroad offers you. Read more about the great opportunities that South America Inside has at your disposal.
Browse through our section Reading Matter!