Provide help to disadvantaged children and orphans while supporting teachers in Kochi

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Program Overview
Life on the Program
Program Details
Volunteer Testimonials

Program Overview

Work alongside local teachers supporting orphans and disadvantaged children in the Southern state of Kerala, famed for its tropical greenery and beautiful backwaters.

You will work in a school which supports low income families and a local girl’s orphanage. Due to the high level of demand classes can be very crowded making it difficult for teachers to provide the necessary level of support to students. Your support will ensure that their needs are met helping to improve attendance and grades, making a valuable contribution in the school.

Life on the Program

You will work Monday to Friday assisting local teachers, planning and delivering educational activities. Focusing on English language skills you can add your unique touch incorporating art, sports and games into your lessons. In the evening you will need to prepare activities and plans for the following day.

On the weekends you will be free to explore the stunning surrounding area. Sample the local cuisine, shop in exotic spice markets, take part in traditional Kathakali dance or just relax in your base town of Kochi.

You will live in comfortable shared accommodation in the centre of town with electricity, running water and flush toilets and shared rooms. Lunch and dinner with fresh vegetables will be prepared for you in the local style.

Program Details

You will work with students from kindergarten to grade six coming from poor families or taken in from the streets. Lessons are taught in English although not being their first language the children will not be fluent. You will find that they are incredibly enthusiastic and keen to learn.

Through education and support we aim to build on the children’s confidence, English abilities and attendance. Outside of normal classes you will also teach small focus groups with children who have fallen behind or struggle with their English ability, computer skills or other areas. Increased support will encourage these children to stay in school.

Volunteer Testimonials

Alexandra Jolly, United Kingdom

The free time so far has given us little snapshots into life in Fort Cochin. From the small colourful cafes where I tried musumbi juice (delicious) to drinking coconut water out of a coconut next to the chinese fishing nets, everything I’ve done has just made me want to explore as much as I can as soon as I can! Last night we had big plans to watch a Bollywood movie so John and Rodhi surprised us with a projector up on the roof with candles, fairy lights, rugs and cushions. It was so relaxing and the film was brilliant..until the power cut. Welcome to India!

Jamie Bright, United Kingdom

Experiencing India from a tourist angle and from the community gives a great insight and understanding. It was a great introduction to the rest of India as Kerala is very reserved and less chaotic, a great choice to wean yourself into Indian travel. I went on to travel more of India and I felt more comfortable having spent time on the project. The opportunities made available by GVI would be almost impossible to recreate without the organisation and security of GVI.