Teach English in an Indigenous Village Ecuador
Description
SKY foundation is a community-based educational project located in the indigenous Andean village of Salasaka, Ecuador. Founded in 1977 as an independent primary school, Katitawa was created to promote education while preserving the cultural identity and traditions of the community. Although the school later closed, the project continues supporting local children, teenagers, and adults through English classes and cultural exchange activities. Our goal is to make language learning accessible to young people and families who often cannot afford private English courses. Through the support of volunteers, we create opportunities for students to practice English in a dynamic and intercultural environment while also building confidence and communication skills that may help them in future educational and work opportunities. Volunteers mainly support English classes within the community. During school months, volunteers assist local English teachers in the mornings at a community school. During vacation periods, volunteers usually teach small English workshops and activities for children and teenagers. Depending on the volunteer’s interests and availability, there may also be opportunities to organize conversation groups, creative activities, or additional lessons in the afternoons. Occasionally, volunteers may also participate in social or community support activities according to local needs. The volunteer schedule is generally flexible, with activities taking place from Monday to Thursday for around 3–4 hours per day. Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays are free, allowing volunteers time to explore Ecuador, rest, or enjoy the local culture and surrounding nature. Volunteers stay at Hostería Pachamama, a volunteer house located within the community. It is a simple and welcoming family environment where volunteers can cook, prepare lessons, work online, and spend time with other volunteers. Living in Salasaka offers a unique opportunity to experience life in an indigenous community rich in traditions, textiles, music, and Andean culture. We are looking for open-minded, respectful, and motivated volunteers who enjoy working with people and are interested in cultural exchange and community life. Previous teaching experience is appreciated but not required; enthusiasm, patience, and creativity are the most important qualities. If you would like to learn more about the project or apply as a volunteer, feel free to contact us. We are always happy to welcome people who want to share their time, knowledge, and experiences with our community.Details
Organisation:
SKY PROJECT
Location:
Salasaka - Pelileo - Tungurahua - Ecuador
Qualifications/Skills:
* Basic or intermediate English skills * Motivation to work with children, teenagers, and the community * Open-minded and respectful attitude toward indigenous culture and traditions * Patience, creativity, and willingness to participate in cultural exchange * Teaching experience is appreciated but not required * Responsible, flexible, and able to work independently and in groups * Spanish is helpful but not mandatory
Dates of program:
Year round
Duration of program:
3 weeks minimum
Age requirement:
Adults of both sexes 18+
Cost:
Volunteers pay $50 per week, which is used to buy food at the local market to cook meals for the whole week, as well as to cover electricity, internet, gas, rent, and taxes. Part of the money is also saved to support future vacation programs and seasonal activities organized by the foundation for local children and the community.
Other information:
The volunteer house is located in Salasaka, an indigenous village with lots of traditions. You will be able to learn about the culture here and about the customs. You are welcome to travel and explore as much as you want. Friday is a free day for volunteers.
Reviews
I loved teaching English there!"So, I have been to Escuela Katitawa two times as a volunteer. One during the covid once after the covid, when I was also writing my thesis there. I liked living in Salasaka; people were very friendly and accommodating. The schedule does differ a little bit depending on your preference and situation there. However, Micaela, the coordinator of volunteers, can help you with many things. It is a project that needs a level of independence and responsibility from its volunteers but can offer a lot, and I do appreciate that it is a transparent project. I have always stayed for about three months, and I really enjoyed teaching English the second time; the kids were just great and I was also doing social media there.:)"- Magdalena Trhlíková
Great experience"A great start to our travels. We stayed for 2 months (Sept-Oct). In the mornings we did help to build a house of a local lady who lost hers two years ago or helped Francisca in the garden. In the afternoon we taught English (Mon-Wed) and played with kids (Thu-Fri) of the local community. On weekends we had time to explore the area (Banos, Tungurahua, Laguna Quilotoa, Riobamba,...). You'll live together with the daughter of Francisca but you might not see her a lot. We were very lucky to spend 2nd Nov in Salasaka as well, the dia de los muertos which is a must if you can make it!"- Michael Holzmeier
Apply now
Members only content - Register or LoginWeb links / Other ways to help
If you visit and apply via the website please mention that you saw this project on volunteerlatinamerica.com.