Buddhist monasteries: Teaching English at Buddhist monasteries in Nepal


Buddhist monasteries: Teaching English at Buddhist monasteries in Nepal

US$ 1365.00

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For those looking for cultural immersion, take a unique opportunity to teach English in Nepal to Buddhist monks in the serene surroundings of a monastery. The students range in age from 5 to 25 years old, so there may be plenty of opportunities to bring variety to your teaching. As well as working on their English, you may also be leading games and activities. All male volunteers are welcome, however, out of respect for the monks' way of life, we request that female volunteers are at least 21 years of age. Some schools are affected by exam periods and holidays. This could be your ideal time to fit in some trekking before returning back to the school. Please call and check about dates with your nearest office.

Project details:
For those looking for cultural immersion, there is a unique opportunity to teach Buddhist monks in the serene surroundings of a monastery. The Monasteries vary in size. Some have about 30 pupils (all boys), aged from 10 to 21. Other Tibetan and Nepalese Buddhist monasteries have approximately 400 resident monks.

The schools in the monasteries provide classes in a number of subjects for about 150 monks. The classes are divided into groups ranging from upper kindergarten (age 5yrs) to class 9 (age 16/17yrs). Attendance at classes is voluntary for the monks so class sizes tend to fluctuate! Ability levels in each class can also vary.

Volunteers should be aware that most of the schools follow a strict government curriculum and the teaching methods are quite old-fashioned. There are also a lot of religious festivals in Nepal so working hours are often affected.

Why the project needs volunteers:
Many schools in Nepal lack the funds to provide effective English language training. Native or fluent English speakers with or without formal teaching experience can contribute greatly to a child's educational development. Career prospects for children of Nepal often rely on their knowledge of English, and by teaching English, you become an important part of the community.

What kind of skills you need to go on this type of project:
If you have an interest in and some knowledge of Tibetan and Buddhist religious philosophy and culture, you will get the most out of your project.

You will often be left to your own devices when teaching and have responsibility to plan your lessons, therefore this project is suitable for those who can demonstrate the ability to organise. The pupils are keen to learn and are responsive and active. If you have teaching experience you could also conduct workshops on new teaching methods with the teachers. The more you get involved in all aspects of school life the better your experience will be.

Your role as a volunteer:
Your main duties in the monasteries will be teaching English and occasionally maths. Most of the morning is taken up with prayers, so teaching normally starts after lunch, for about 3-4 hours a day.

Please note: During February (dates are not confirmed) each year the Losar festival occurs celebrating the Tibetan New Year and will mean that you can join the celebrations. The projects will be disrupted but is a great opportunity to see some of the performances in the city and see thousands of monks in their deep red robes worshiping.

Where the project is based:
The Monasteries are located about 2-6KM from Thamel and are easily reached by public transport.

Your accommodation will be at the Student Guesthouse in the Thamel District of Kathmandu. 2 meals are provided per day and both food and accommodation is included in the project fee.

Please book your flight to arrive into Kathmandu (airport code KTM) on the advertised arrival date to ensure your airport pickup. (Please note that when booking flights the airline Nepal Air does tend to be unreliable and is not unusual to be subject to delays.)

Please note: During February (dates are not confirmed) each year the Losar festival occurs celebrating the Tibetan New Year and will mean that you can join the celebrations. The projects will be disrupted but is a great opportunity to see some of the performances in the city and see thousands of monks in their deep red robes worshiping.