This special school was founded by Patricia, the creator of Volunteer Worldwide, in collaboration with the Kidz Active Foundation. It’s our very own school in Ghana.
This is a truly meaningful education project based in northern Ghana. This region is the poorest part of the country, with Tamale as its capital. Education levels are low, leading to relatively high rates of illiteracy and limited knowledge of English, usually only at a basic level. Many children in the surrounding villages don’t attend school due to financial hardship.
Another reason children don’t attend school is because they’re often responsible for looking after younger siblings or working on the land. Many parents simply aren’t aware of the importance of education. That’s why Kidz Active, with the support of donors, volunteers and local teachers, built and launched this school. A crèche was also established so that older children are no longer burdened with childcare responsibilities and can attend school themselves.
The school is aimed at underprivileged children from villages around Tamale and currently accommodates around 550 students. Classes are smaller than usual for Ghana, allowing more individual attention.
Support local teachers in the classroom or provide additional lessons to children who are struggling. You won’t be teaching entirely on your own, as a teacher is always present. You can also get involved with arts and crafts, sports and games, or music. Personal ideas and creativity are always very welcome.
When working with students in grades 1 to 6, your main focus will be helping those who have fallen behind. You’ll take them aside individually or in small groups to assess their level and help them understand the material at their own pace. This approach often helps students catch up to the rest of the class.
The kids in this age group are between four and six or seven years old. They need support with their daily routines and development, including hygiene practices like washing their hands after going to the toilet. They also start learning the basics of English, such as counting and the alphabet. Their native language, Dagbanli, is still spoken in the classroom alongside English. The teachers speak English, but volunteers need to be patient and attentive as the children may not always understand you at first. They love games and playing with things like LEGO.
The children here are between two and four years old and need guidance in their early development, play and hygiene. Dagbanli is the main language spoken in the crèche, although the teachers speak English. As with kindergarten, volunteers need patience and care. The little ones enjoy playing games and love activities like building with LEGO or Duplo.
If you're working with grades 1 to 6, you’ll mainly focus on tutoring children who are struggling in regular class. You’ll take them out of class for one-on-one or small group sessions, figure out where they’re at, and help them improve from there. This method is often very successful in bringing them up to the same level as their peers.
You’re also welcome to help with creative activities, sports, games or music. Your personal input is always appreciated.
If you choose to work in the crèche, your tasks will be a bit different due to the age of the children and the language barrier. These little ones are still learning how to play, interact and follow routines.
You’ll work Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 2:45 pm. Depending on the age group you’re working with, your day might look slightly different. But one thing’s for sure, the children are always full of energy and incredibly grateful for your help.
Jenice
Het is goed om te zien hoe goed wij het hier hebben, als je terug komt waardeer je veel meer. Ook voor je persoonlijk vlak is het goed om een keer een zelfstandige reis te maken en daar te werken.
Sofie vrijwilliger Ghana
De begeleiding en ondersteuning die zij je bieden in Ghana én in Nederland, geeft je een gevoel van veiligheid, zekerheid, vertrouwen en warmte!
Caroline vrijwilliger Ghana
Door in Afrika gewerkt te hebben, besef ik nu eens zo hard hoe druk wij ons in Europa soms maken om pietluttigheden. Wij mogen oprecht dankbaar zijn voor alles wat we zomaar in onze schoot geworpen krijgen.
Agnetha vrijwilliger in Ghana
Voor mij was het vrijwilligerswerk en het rondreizen in Ghana een prachtige ervaring en ik zou het zeker aanraden aan anderen om te gaan doen.
Mirte vrijwilliger in Ghana
Het land van de mooie bomen, lachende mensen, dansende mensen, van de waterzakjes. Je moet het meemaken om de echte cultuur te voelen, het is geweldig!
Boudewijn
Ik wilde reizen, een andere cultuur meemaken, meer van de wereld zien maar wel iets te doen hebben en mogelijk nog iets toevoegen. Ook voor mijn cv moest het een toevoeging zijn en natuurlijk is vrijwilligerswerk dat.
Working Hours
You’ll work from Monday to Friday, from 8:00am to 2:45pm.
Other Colleagues / Who You’ll Work With
You’ll always be there in a supporting role, so you’ll never be alone in front of the class. You’ll work alongside regular teachers and other volunteers. Our local contact, Sylvester, is also often present at the school.
Language Spoken at the Project
The spoken language is English. Naturally, the older the children, the better their English tends to be. But there are always teachers around to help translate if needed.
Holiday Periods
This project continues during school holidays. During these times, the teachers are on break, but the children receive extra lessons. We also organise lots of games and sports activities, these weeks are always a lot of fun. However, for volunteers or interns mainly interested in teaching, these may not be the most ideal periods.
The school holiday periods are:
Mid-December to mid-January
Mid-April to mid-May
Late July to mid-September
Accommodation
In Ghana, you’ll stay with a host family or in your own hut in a traditional village. This is the perfect way to get to know Ghanaian life and culture. In the host family, you’ll have your own room, while facilities such as the bathroom and toilet are shared with the family. You’ll receive three meals a day, and the family will do everything they can to make your stay unforgettable. Do note that the living conditions are more basic than what you might be used to.
Traditional host family:
Modern host family:
Transport to and from the Project
You’ll get to the project by “Yellow” (a type of tuk-tuk). If you’re staying in a traditional host family near Sylvester, you can walk to school.
Materials the Project Can Use
There are books, notebooks and writing materials available, but they run out quickly and aren’t restocked regularly, so shortages can occur. Notebooks, educational materials, and arts and crafts supplies are always very welcome. Please check in advance with our contacts about what would be most useful to bring.
Airport Pickup Service
In Ghana, our pickup service in Accra will meet you. Jennifer will be at the airport with a sign with your name on it, and will welcome you warmly. You’ll spend one night in Accra, and she’ll arrange a bus or flight ticket for you to Tamale. Once in Tamale, you’ll be picked up by our contact Sylvester.
We’ll also arrange your return journey. You’ll spend another night with Jennifer so that you can travel home well-rested the next day. These costs are not included in the program fee.
Free Time
Have a look at our optional trips to see what you can explore in your free time! We offer some truly beautiful excursions. And since you’re in such a stunning country, it’s the perfect chance to experience more of it.
The Contact Person
Sylvester is the contact person in Ghana.
For this project, we are looking for volunteers who are passionate about education and child development. We believe that education is the key to a better future, and your contribution can make a huge impact on the lives of many children.
The projects in Ghana are suitable for young volunteers aged 17+, as well as the 50+ age group.
Affinity with Education and Child Development:
We are looking for volunteers who have a passion for teaching and the wellbeing of children. Experience in education, pedagogy, or a related field is a bonus, but enthusiasm and a genuine interest in helping children is essential.
Initiative and Proactivity:
The ability to work independently and take initiative is crucial. In many situations, you’ll need to improvise and come up with creative solutions to unexpected challenges. A proactive attitude not only helps solve problems but also contributes to a dynamic and effective learning environment.
Patience:
Patience is an essential quality when working with children. Every child learns at their own pace and in their own way. It’s important to remain calm, even when progress seems slow. Your patience and persistence can make a big difference in a child’s learning journey.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Working in a different cultural context requires respect and understanding of local customs and traditions. Being open and willing to learn from the culture you’re in is key to a successful collaboration and a positive experience for both you and the community.
Flexibility and Adaptability:
Conditions in Ghana may be quite different from what you’re used to. Flexibility and the ability to adapt to new situations are therefore important. This applies to both your living situation and your working environment.
Communication Skills:
Strong communication skills are essential when interacting with children, colleagues, and the local community. The ability to communicate clearly and respectfully contributes to a positive and productive work environment.
Team Spirit:
The education project is a joint effort, and teamwork is key to success. A positive team spirit and willingness to work collaboratively with others, including local teachers and volunteers from diverse backgrounds, are vital in achieving our shared goals.
As a volunteer in this project, you’ll be involved in a variety of educational activities, including teaching classes, supporting local teachers, organising after-school activities, and helping develop educational materials. You’ll play a valuable role in creating a stimulating and supportive learning environment for the children.
Your stay in Ghana won’t just give you the chance to make a difference in the lives of children, it will also allow for personal growth. You’ll discover new cultures, form lasting friendships, and have unforgettable experiences.
In short, if you have a passion for education and child development, and are ready to commit to a challenging yet rewarding environment, then this volunteer project in Ghana is the perfect opportunity for you. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the future of these children.
We completely understand that having your child volunteer overseas can feel like a big step. In fact, it’s often just as exciting for parents as it is for the young person themselves, and sometimes even a little more nerve-racking. That’s why we want to reassure you that your child is in good hands.
Since 2004, we’ve been supporting volunteers and have guided many young people through meaningful international experiences.
We take safety seriously. That begins with carefully selecting our partner organisations, volunteer projects, and host families. Every placement is thoroughly checked to make sure it meets our high standards for safety, support, and ethical practices.
Our experienced and caring local contacts are always there to support volunteers throughout their journey. From clear pre-departure preparation to personal assistance during the project, we’re available to help whenever needed.
We believe strongly in open communication. You're always welcome to contact us with any questions or concerns. We’re here not only for the volunteers, but for their families too.
You can feel confident knowing we are fully committed to creating a safe, supportive, and positive experience. Your child’s wellbeing, safety, and overall happiness are our top priorities.
If there's anything you’d like to ask or talk through, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Warm regards,
The Volunteer Worldwide Team
Average cost for a 5 week stay = $439/week
1 week of volunteering: $699
2 weeks of volunteering: $1099
3 weeks of volunteering: $1599
$299 for each additional week.
*All prices are in AUD.
Before departure
Online introductory meeting
Information package with details about the culture and customs in Ghana, as well as an overview of all preparations you need to make, including insurance, finances, and other travel tips
Pre-departure training
Assistance with applying for a Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Access to the online community
Help with your visa application
Help with booking your flight (on request)
During your trip
Airport transfer to the project, including one night in a hotel
On-site introduction
Help with extending your visa (if needed)
Guidance throughout your stay
Accommodation and a private room with a host family
Three meals per day (when you are present)
Upon return
Evaluation session
Certificate (on request)
The option to stay active in our WhatsApp community
Memories for life!
Flight ticket
Vaccinations
Visa
Certificate of Conduct (VOG)
Travel insurance
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