Where are your volunteers from?

285 volunteers from all over the world have participated in our program, and we have a return rate of almost 12%!

See where our Volunteers come from on this full screen map!

Who can volunteer?

We accept volunteers from all over the world, but as we are an English language school, we prefer native speakers and those completely fluent in English.

Whilst we don't require TEFL/TESOL/CELTA or tertiary teaching qualifications, they certainly help you in the classroom! There are internationally recognised TEFL and CELTA providers in Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam if you would like to study before you arrive!

For applicants who are not native speakers, we do require English teaching experience and qualifications.

Unfortunately, Cambodia has very strict visa requirements for citizens of many African and Middle Eastern nations. We urge anyone from these countries to consult a visa specialist to see if you are eligible for a Cambodian business visa before applying.

Personal Safety

Phnom Penh is no more dangerous than any other major city in the rest of the world. A common sense approach to your activities and behaviour that you would apply in your home city will just be a effective in ensuring your safety in Phnom Penh. There are obviously things and places that we recommend that you would avoid, which will pointed out to you during orientation.

What are the medical facilities like in Phnom Penh?

Aside from your personal medical insurance (which you will need to get before arrival), Phnom Penh has a high standard of medical facilities. There are numerous internationally staffed clinics in the city, such as the NAGA Clinic and the AEA International SOS. During the orientation, you will be shown where these facilities are.

Can I stay longer than three months?

We initially accept volunteers for three months (one semester) only, but you are welcome to stay longer if everything is going well.

Can I learn the Cambodian (Khmer) language?

Yes, students at the school are happy to give you free ongoing Khmer language classes, and we can arrange this for you.

When are the main holidays each semester?

• August-November groups: Pchum Benh Festival (September/October)

• November-February groups: Christmas/New Year (December/January), and Chinese New Year (Late January)

• February-May groups: Khmer New Year (April)

• May-August groups: No festivals - Midterm school holiday only (July)

Are there opportunities to travel while volunteering?

Absolutely - travel begins during the orientation, when there is an opportunity to join a three-day trip to meet CRDT in Kratie province and see the work you and the school support.

There is also a one-week holiday mid-semester which could be used to visit Siem Reap/Angkor Wat and Battambang, and typically at least one long-weekend which could be used to travel to the beach at Sihanoukville or the limestone caves, Bokor Hill Station and sea at Kampot and Kep.

Aside from the trip to CRDT, there won't be time to travel before or during the orientation if you are arriving on the group starting date. If you'd like to travel before the orientation, please arrange to arrive back in Phnom Penh on the starting date.

Do you know of other volunteer opportunities?

• AboutAsia Schools supports the education of children in rural Siem Reap. Volunteering in Siem Reap, with AboutAsia Schools makes a real impact on the future of the poorest Cambodian childen.

• For volunteer opportunities in India, visit Friends of Kolkata and Northeast Monologues

• For volunteer opportunities in other parts of the world with our partner organisations, please visit Global Volunteer Network (GVN) and Working Abroad.