Suwannaphum

You will be teaching English in schools across Suwannaphum, a small town in the Isaan region of Thailand. While it may feel quiet at first, there is plenty happening beneath the surface. You will quickly fall in love with this charming town full of character.

Your Project

Suwannaphum is a small town about a fourty-five minute drive from the city of Roi Et. This region of Thailand is known as Isaan and it has its own unique culture, language and identity within Thailand. Isaan is a poorer region of Thailand and has strong influences from neighbouring Laos, which is just on the other side of the Mekong River. The Isaan language is closer to Laos than Bangkok Thai and there is a multitude of influences from the many different ethnic groups that have populated the land over time. This all makes living here an extremely interesting experience. 

Suwanaphum is a close-knit community with the staff from the municipality and local schools coming together to welcome Volunteers. You will soon find yourself with the opportunity to get involved in all aspects of community life, be it attending social events within the village or taking part in festivals. Whilst tranquil and quiet, this village boast beautiful parks, temples and a museum and indeed the locals hold immense pride in their surroundings.

As a Volunteer you will work across different schools teaching a range of ages with a focus on improving the students English. You will either be teaching in a nursery for 1–4-year-olds, a primary school for 4-6-year-olds or a middle school for 7–15-year-olds. Class sizes range but you will usually be teaching a group of around 30 students. You will be seen as a valuable resource for the community and as such there are opportunities to develop extracurricular activities to match with your strengths and interests. You will also have a generous holiday period, both to explore the country but also to become immersed in Thai life in other ways. 

Accommodation

Your and your partner will share independent accommodation in a central location, you will have the facilities to cook meals for yourselves. Volunteers often enjoy trying Thai cuisine and will go for dinner at local restaurants and learn to recreate their favourite dishes at home. You will also have your own bicycle to explore the area.