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Mondo challenge |
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Nationwide |
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Temporary or Contract/Full-time |
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PR3132625 |
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Anthony Lunch |
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04/07/08 at 09:15 |
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Volunteer Teacher - Ecuador
Ecuador is one of the smallest countries in South America yet it has an enormous biodiversity. Many people believe it is one of the easiest and most pleasant countries to travel in. The Andes form the backbone of the country whose borders are Colombia to the north, Peru on the south and east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The country has a fabulous coast line but also has tropical jungle, snow capped mountains and volcanoes; quite a feast for volunteers keen on outdoor opportunities!
The essence of our projects is that they are community based. You will live and work with local people. The ability to contribute something to a relatively poor community is very satisfying. However, as with all MondoChallenge projects, you yourself will gain far more, just by appreciating the simplicity of the life and values of the people.
In 2006 we introduced 6 brand new projects; 4 in the Andes, in areas listed among the ten most biologically important in the world; and 2 on the coast, around beautiful Puerto Lopez. Specific programmes include teaching 5-12 year olds in public primary schools in:
Apuela (Andes) - This small Andean mountain town on the western slope of the Andes is 3 hours west of Otavalo, which is only 1.5 hours north of Quito. It is one of the ten biologically most important areas of the world -there are more endemic species here than in even the Amazon basin!
Peņaherrera (Andes) - 8km (20mins drive) from Apuela. Volunteers may also teach English via the radio and get involved with local grassroot businesses, eg. jam production.
Oyacachi (Andes) - Less than 3 hours east of Quito, Oyacachi is famous for its local fresh cheese production, hot thermal baths, woodcrafts and hiking. Volunteers could also get involved in the development of these local business, as well as tourism promotional work.
Patate (Andes) - In the central highlands, 3-4 hours south of Quito, Patate overlooks the active volcano Tunghurahua and is not far from the beautiful resort town of Baņos, famous for its hot springs.
Puerto Lopez (Coast) - 4 to 5 hours bus ride north of Guayaquil & 10 hours from Quito, Puerto Lopez is a medium-sized fishing/tourist town with good amenities. Volunteers can also work with the tourist information centre.
Salango - A small fishing village, Salango is 10-minutes south of Puerto Lopez. This area is excellent for whale-watching from June to September & a short boat ride finds you at the beautiful 'Poor Man's Galapagos' - Isla de la Plata.
The children are responsive and welcoming and the need is for enthusiasm and commitment from our volunteers, rather than formal qualifications. We offer an optional weekend short course in Oxford for those who feel they need extra teaching support. Qualified teachers are also welcome as they can assist with local teacher training.
For our programmes in Ecuador, we ask that our volunteers MUST speak good Spanish before embarking on a teaching placement. The levels of spoken English in Ecuador is poor, so it is essential for communication.
If you would like to find out more, contact us.
Interested? Please click the 'apply online' button below
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