Teaching Assistants – Volunteer Opportunity in Rural Ecuador

Help teach in rural primary schools in northern Ecuador in an area of beautiful cloud forests and mountains which are home to the Andean bear.  You will assist the local teachers by teaching environmental education as well as other subjects such as English, computing, sports and art.  No experience needed, just patience, enthusiasm and a genuine interest in education and the environment.  You need to speak at least basic Spanish.

As well as helping the children with their education, your volunteer work will strengthen relations between the Andean Bear Conservation Project and the local community.  You will also be ensuring that the next generation grows up with an appreciation for the environment they live in and the importance of conserving the cloud forest with all its biodiversity, from tiny insects to the large, timid Andean (spectacled) bears.

There may also be the chance to teach English to prospective tour guides, as part of a plan to create sustainable sources of income in the area.  The one college in the area welcomes assistance in teaching English and computer skills to older students

This opportunity will provide valuable experience for those seeking a career in environmental education, teaching or conservation outreach work.

Note: Qualified and experienced teachers are very welcome and will be able to take on more responsibility.

Minimum time commitment: four weeks.  For more information see http://www.andeanbear.org/teaching-assistant.html.  Please quote reference SDTeaAug10 when you apply.