Programme Overview
Be placed in preschools, primary, and middle schools in Wattala or Galle, working alongside local teachers and caregivers to enhance educational opportunities and provide nurturing care. You'll work Monday–Friday mornings (8 AM–12 PM), with afternoons and weekends completely free to explore Sri Lanka.
No experience required. Lesson plan templates, teaching tips, and comprehensive orientation are provided. What matters most is enthusiasm, creativity, and a genuine love for children.
Full Programme Guide
Complete details on activities, schedule, locations, health & safety, and pricing.
Programme Locations
Choose between two distinct regions of Sri Lanka — both offering unique cultural experiences.
Wattala
Just north of Colombo
- 30 min from Colombo's markets, temples, and architecture
- Suburban community atmosphere
- Easy access to Negombo beaches and Kelaniya temple
Galle
Southern UNESCO coastal city
- UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort at your doorstep
- Beaches: Unawatuna, Mirissa, Hikkaduwa
- Whale watching, surfing, rainforests nearby
What You'll Do Daily
Assist and co-teach English lessons across all grade levels. Focus on conversational practice, reading, and writing through storytelling, songs, games, and role-play. No formal qualifications required — enthusiasm and clear communication are what matter.
Daily Schedule
Monday–Friday, 8 AM–12 PM. Afternoons and weekends completely free.
Arrive at school, greet children and staff
Morning assembly or circle time (prayers, songs, greetings)
First teaching/childcare session (60–90 minutes)
Break time — play with children, tea with teachers
Second teaching/childcare session (60–90 minutes)
School day ends, debrief with staff
Free — lesson planning, exploring, or rest
Orphanage visit (2–3 hours)
Accommodation & Meals
Host Family
Live with a Sri Lankan family for deep cultural immersion — home-cooked meals, Sinhala language practice, family celebrations.
Volunteer House
Shared accommodation with international volunteers — more independence with a social, supportive community.
Meals
3 meals daily — Sri Lankan rice and curry, roti, hoppers, tropical fruits, and Western options. Dietary requirements accommodated.
Location
Well-connected to schools, local markets, transport, and amenities in both Wattala and Galle.
Volunteer Gallery
Weekend Exploration
Weekends are completely free. Meals £2–6, transport £1–4, excursions £15–60.
From Wattala
Colombo
30 minMarkets, temples, colonial architecture, vibrant city life.
Kelaniya Temple
15 minAncient Buddhist temple with stunning murals.
Negombo Beach
45 minFishing village, fresh seafood, water sports.
From Galle
Galle Fort
WalkingUNESCO colonial fort, ocean views, boutique shops, cafés.
Unawatuna
10 kmHorseshoe bay, snorkeling, diving, nightlife.
Mirissa
25 kmWhale watching (Nov–Apr), beautiful beach.
Hikkaduwa
30 kmSurfing, snorkeling with turtles, coral reefs.
National Destinations
Sigiriya
3–4 hrsUNESCO rock fortress, breathtaking views.
Kandy
2–3 hrsTemple of the Tooth, traditional dance, beautiful lake.
Ella
4–5 hrsTea plantations, world's most scenic train ride, hiking.
Yala National Park
3–4 hrs (Galle)Leopards, elephants, sloth bears.
Who Should Volunteer?
Perfect For
- Aspiring teachers gaining practical classroom experience
- Education students needing practicum or field experience
- Gap year students wanting meaningful work beyond tourism
- Career changers exploring education or childcare fields
- Anyone with genuine love for children and desire to help
- Those interested in international development and education equity
Not Suitable For
- Those uncomfortable with basic facilities or simple living
- People requiring constant structure and rigid schedules
- Anyone not genuinely interested in working with children
- Individuals expecting a vacation with occasional volunteering
Age: 18+ · Language: Functional English · Experience: None required · Background check: Mandatory
Included & Excluded
What's Included
- Airport pickup from Colombo (BIA)
- Comprehensive orientation and pre-arrival resources
- Placement in preschool, primary, middle school or childcare
- Weekly orphanage visit + transport
- Accommodation (host family or volunteer house)
- Three meals daily (dietary requirements accommodated)
- Local coordinator support, teaching materials, 24/7 emergency assistance
- Certificate of volunteer service
Not Included
- International flights
- Sri Lanka visa / ETA (approx. £40 online)
- Travel insurance (MANDATORY — must cover volunteer work)
- Personal expenses, weekend tours, personal transport
- Vaccinations
Health & Safety
General Safety
Wattala and Galle are generally very safe. Standard travel precautions apply.
Child Safety
Maintain professional boundaries at all times. Never alone with a child in a private space. Background checks mandatory.
Health Prep
Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus recommended. Hepatitis B for childcare. Consult travel clinic 6–8 weeks before departure.
Sun, Heat & Hygiene
SPF 50+, 3–4 litres water daily. Frequent handwashing when working with children.
Food & Water
Bottled or filtered water only. Bring anti-diarrheal medication for adjustment period.
24/7 Support
Local coordinator on call at all times. Medical facilities in both Wattala and Galle.
Travel insurance is MANDATORY. Must cover volunteer activities, work with children, medical treatment, and emergency evacuation.