Teaching English in Rural Schools in Xi'an, China

Xi’an is fast becoming one of the fastest growing cities in China and city graduates are being hired for jobs outsourced from the US or created through tourism and other industries. But without good English, these jobs will remain elusive for fresh graduates and many young children. Even to secure seats in good universities and do other things, English has become very important to learn in China. Yet, many schools and colleges don’t have trained English teachers as there simply aren’t enough teachers around. Our volunteers will teach in these schools and help young children get to grasp with English language. You’ll find the students mostly well behaved and eager to learn from international volunteers. Volunteers will be helped by local teachers.

Your Responsibility as a Volunteer:

The schools in Xi’an work under the universities and are well organized and have good facilities. A single classroom has about 50-60 students. Volunteers will teach according to official syllabus but you can also teach on your own. You’ll be encouraged to hold debates and discussions as they can quickly enhance the children’s ability to grasp English. As part of your teaching methods, you can also include songs and plays. You’re expected to teach for 4-6 hours a day from Monday to Friday. Many volunteers have also participated in extra-curricular activities.

Skills Required:

Volunteers must be fluent English speakers to enroll in the project. We also welcome non-native English speakers as long as they have good knowledge of English. Volunteers are also expected by be open minded, confident and resourceful.

Arrangement of room/food/supervision:

Volunteers will stay in a Home Base, hostel or with a host family and take 3 local meals a day. If volunteers find the food too spicy they ask for less spicy meals if they want. While staying with a host family, you’ll have a wonderful chance to learn about local people and their culture. Our Xi’an coordinator will be in touch with you all the time to ensure you are well and enjoying your volunteering.