To be a volunteer
First Ray of Hope (FROH) Nepal is a non-profit organization that welcomes volunteers to assist with our programs. We are not a volunteer agency but act as an intermediary for local organizations, significantly decreasing their work demands. At the same time, our programs are designed first and foremost to benefit the vulnerable children and schools within our care. We do our utmost to provide safe, happy and memorable volunteering experiences for all who come to participate in our objectives.
The majority of children from Nepals’ villages and cities are unable to access good education because of a lack of financial and educational resources, as well as the nature of the country’s mountainous geography. The devastating affects of the earthquake in April, 2015 has amplified these problems. First Ray of Hope Nepal is closely in contract with some of the schools in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, Nuwakot and Kavrepalanchok districts. We strive to improve rural education standards for all children, thereby reducing the resulting risk of child trafficking and forced teenage marriages.
Teaching Nepali children is a thoroughly enjoyable experience. No matter what you believe your skill level to be, you have something to offer. Having a native speaker is a massive advantage as you can teach conversational English and oral language skills to both students and staff alike.
The Volunteer’s Schedule
The Nepali school week is Sunday to Thursday 10am – 4pm, and Friday 10am – 1pm, but you are asked to teach Monday to Friday only. Volunteers are not there to replace local teachers, but rather to work alongside them and plan complementary activities. You will be volunteering in primary and lower secondary schools where the children will be between the ages of 4 and 16 years of age. You are only asked to teach English, however you may support other subject areas that you are comfortable with. Assistance with school administration duties like exam supervision would be appreciated, and you are also welcome to help organize extra-curricular activities (talent shows, sports competitions) and school clubs (homework, music, dance, sports and art clubs). Your weekends can be used to explore Nepal, be a tourist, plan activities/lessons or just relax.
Preparation:
In getting ready for your placement, you are encouraged to ask a local school for permission to observe classes and show you some teaching ideas. You should also understand that resources are extremely limited in the institutions you will be working. Therefore, any supplies you can bring relevant to your particular programme will be very appreciated by the local people and staff. We will provide suggestions during our correspondence.
Many volunteers come with specific skill sets and look to use their experience and skills towards projects or ideas they have in mind. It is great that people have this motivation and energy for the programme, however sometimes it is impractical to give volunteers responsibility for projects that will not be completed during their time here. If you have a certain mission or project in mind, you are encouraged to please contact the office in advance to discuss its feasibility.
If you are interested in volunteering here in Nepal to help vulnerable children, please indicate your interest via the message box below. When we receive your message we will contact you with a plan and cost details.