Sustainable Development Goals
The Project
Don Bosco Technical School in Sihanoukville Cambodia together with three other technical high schools have requested a Peer Youth Mentor/English Tutor for 12-24 months, perfect for mature and motivated 2024 HSC or IB graduates looking to make a real difference while gaining invaluable international experience.
Main Responsibilities of the volunteer:
- Provide English instruction and practice to students in the academic program and extra classes in the evening and/or weekends.
- Facilitate an English students’ club in the school or boarding accommodation, if requested.
- Incorporate new materials and activities for student learning.
- Collaborate with local English teachers to support student learning and engagement.
- Conduct weekly Scouts classes for students at all primary levels.
- Assist with sporting and/or musical activities with and for the children and young people
- Respond to the needs of particular children or young people who may need individual support and accompaniment
- Assist with youth camps if these are organised by your host
- Assist your host with drafting or proof reading English documentation if requested.
The Location
Sihanoukville [known as Kampong Som] province, a coastal village is located in the southwest of Cambodia which has become a very popular holiday destination. The city was named in honour of former king Norodom Sihanouk, and has a population of around 235,190 people. There are 3 other Don Bosco schools in Cambodia which are also be available for placement. They have extensive grounds which provide the opportunity for recreation with other young people, and a peaceful space for ‘time out’ if necessary. Peer mentors will have the opportunity to build supportive friendships with Cambodian young people and fellow peer mentors from Australia and/or other countries. Cambodia is a safe and hospital country for personal travel for those interested during term breaks and on weekends.
Support Provided:
- Accommodation and meals
- Small monthly living allowance
- Up to 20 hours in country language training
- Comprehensive preparation and ongoing support
- Professional development opportunities on return for anyone interested in a career in TESOL.
The Challenge
Currently close to 100% of Cambodian children are able to complete primary school. However access to secondary and high school is more limited. Only approximately 26% of Cambodians complete high school and approximately 8% complete university.
Some private universities and private coaching colleges are being established. However the quality is variable. Catholic educational institutions exist in various centres around the country and attempt to assist the education of those who would not otherwise have access to education. Don Bosco colleges enable students from regional areas who would often have limited access to educational opportunities, to access good quality vocational education in a supportive environment.
About You
Ideal for students who have:
- Successfully completed Year 12 including Band 5 or 6 results in English
- Experience in leadership and mentoring or supporting young adults eg Scouts or Duke of Edinburgh; Youth Mission; Fellowship or Peer Support experience in your spiritual community; Leading sporting or cultural teams (eg School Captain or Prefect/Student Representative Council; team or house captain; Editor of School Newspaper; Stage Manager for school performances)
- Personal attributes of flexibility, patience and a sense of humour
- Cultural sensitivity and openness to working within a different cultural context
- The ability to cope with cultural isolation and different living standards, and a willingness to participate actively with fellow staff and students in order to build strong relationships
- A readiness to live and work with limited resources in a challenging environment
How You Will Help
By sharing your knowledge and expertise you will assist to improve students’ English language proficiency levels, including their oral communication skills and the efforts of your host organisation to provide a safe, and physically, mentally, socially and spiritually enriching environment for all students will be supported.