Costa Rica: Teaching English
Available all year
Location: Esparza, Costa Rica
Project Type: Education
Schedule: Project runs all year
Length: 2 weeks minimum
Participants: 18+ Ideal for: school leavers, university/college students, graduates, adults
Price: £495 per week (including airport transfer on arrival*)
About the Project
Bring English to life for young learners in rural Costa Rica through a practical, community-based teaching placement. Working with qualified local teachers, volunteers support students aged 5 to 19 through conversation practice, games, and creative activities that build confidence and make learning enjoyable.
During term time, volunteers enrich classroom learning while following local school guidance. Outside term time, they may support community education or informal language activities, gaining a meaningful cultural experience while helping keep learning opportunities active year-round.
How Volunteers Make a Difference
Volunteers add warmth, creativity and international perspective to rural classrooms, helping students practice English with greater confidence while easing pressure on local teachers. The experience also strengthens school-community links and creates memorable cross-cultural connections. Volunteer activities may include:
- Supporting local teachers with engaging English language activities for students aged 5 to 19
- Using games, dialogue, group tasks and creative exercises to make learning practical and enjoyable
- Encouraging participation and helping students feel confident, included and motivated
- Taking part in school and community activities that deepen mutual understanding
- Collaborating respectfully with local educators and supporting the national curriculum and classroom routines
Project Aims & Objectives
- Improve access to quality English language support for children and young people in rural communities
- Encourage cultural exchange and global understanding between volunteers and local communities
- Support the personal, educational and social development of students
- Strengthen community engagement through international volunteering and collaboration
Typical Day (Monday to Friday)
Each school day offers a varied and rewarding mix of classroom support, lesson activities, and time spent getting to know the school community. Volunteers can expect to be involved for around 3–6 hours of teaching support per day, depending on the school timetable and local needs. In some placements, there may be flexibility to express preferences for particular classes or age groups.
A typical day begins in the morning and may continue until shortly after 16:30, with lunch usually taken at the school. This gives volunteers the chance to become part of daily school life, join in activities, build positive relationships with students and staff, and experience education in rural Costa Rica from the inside.
~ Schedule and activities may be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances.
Volunteers Will Need
- Keen interest in teaching and working with children
- Energy, patience and adaptability
- For volunteers aged 65+, medical clearance may be required to ensure the placement is suitable
Included
Pre-departure briefing
Accommodation
Airport transfer to the accommodation upon arrival*
Transportation during the programme (if required) as per the scheduled activities
Daily meals – typically 3 meals on weekdays and 2 meals on weekends
Programme materials and project guidance
Local team support 24/7
Not Included
Flights
Visa & visa-related expenses
Travel & health insurance
Personal expenses
Additional tours or activities
Paid optional extras**
* Programme price includes airport meeting & transfer on Sundays only.
** Optional extras available: private room, extra night at the project accommodation, airport meeting &
transfer (Mon-Sat) or airport drop off at the end of the project.
If you would like more information or advice, please contact our Volunteer Abroad team at 01684 562577.
UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
This project contributes to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, supporting the Quality Education goal to ensure inclusive, equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.
