Teaching Volunteer in Cambodia — Teach English
Cambodia, a captivating Southeast Asian nation bordered by Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, is known for its deep history, warm people, and cultural resilience. Yet, decades after the Khmer Rouge regime devastated the country’s education system, access to quality schooling remains a major challenge—particularly for children from low-income families.
Our Teaching English Volunteer Program in Cambodia is based in Phnom Penh, where you’ll help provide crucial English and basic education to children and young adults eager to learn. English proficiency is one of the most sought-after skills in Cambodia, opening doors to employment, tourism, and global communication. By teaching conversational English, reading, writing, or even basic computer literacy and maths, you’ll empower students to gain confidence, pursue better opportunities, and break the cycle of poverty.
Unlike in many countries, the Cambodian government struggles to provide accessible education for all citizens, especially in rural and underfunded urban communities. That’s where passionate volunteers like you come in. Whether you’re teaching pronunciation, helping with classroom activities, or simply sharing cultural stories, your contribution will have a direct and meaningful impact.
No formal teaching background is required—just enthusiasm, patience, and a willingness to help. Our experienced local team and teachers will guide you throughout your placement, ensuring you’re well-prepared and supported every step of the way.
Why Teach English in Cambodia?
High demand for English education: Tourism and international trade are growing fast, but local schools often lack qualified English teachers.
Empower future generations: Your lessons can help children and young adults access better jobs and educational opportunities.
Cultural exchange: Learn from the local Khmer community while sharing your own language and experiences.
Flexible teaching projects: Volunteers can assist in primary schools, community centres, or informal classes for adults.
This program is open to:
Gap year students and university graduates
Families and career breakers
Anyone passionate about education and child development
No teaching experience is required—only enthusiasm and a genuine interest in helping others.
Teaching English Volunteer Program in Cambodia
What is involved
As a teaching volunteer in Cambodia, your daily work will involve:
Teaching English at beginner or intermediate levels to students aged 6–18.
Supporting local teachers with pronunciation, grammar, reading, and writing practice.
Creating fun, engaging lesson plans, games, and activities.
Assisting with basic computer literacy or maths classes (optional).
Helping children improve confidence and communication through conversation and play.
Volunteers generally teach 3–4 hours a day, Monday to Friday. Preparation and classroom assistance are also part of your schedule.
🕒 Typical Daily Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 7:30 AM | Breakfast at accommodation |
| 8:30 AM | Travel to school or community centre |
| 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Morning English lessons and classroom support |
| 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Lunch break and preparation for afternoon sessions |
| 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Afternoon teaching or after-school clubs |
| Evenings | Free time to explore Phnom Penh’s riverside, markets, or local cafés |
Weekends are free for travel—volunteers often visit Siem Reap and Angkor Wat, Kampot, or Sihanoukville’s beaches.
Here’s why this program stands out:
🌏 Real Community Impact: You’ll work directly with local students who benefit most from your support, helping them develop vital English and communication skills.
🧑🏫 Cultural Exchange: Teach English while learning Khmer culture, customs, and traditions from your students and host community.
💼 Skill Development: Build leadership, communication, and teaching experience that enhance your CV or university applications.
🕊️ Ethical Volunteering: We partner only with schools and NGOs that prioritize sustainable education and community development.
🌅 Meaningful Travel: Combine volunteering with the adventure of exploring Cambodia’s breathtaking landscapes, cuisine, and heritage.
Every day you’ll see the direct results of your work — a student mastering a new word, a classroom coming alive with laughter, and a community that feels more connected to the wider world through education.
Some details
Volunteer Teaching Abroad Programs Dates
Start Dates are suggested below. We advise you to check with us about public holidays and festivals during
Days
2025
- Jan 4,11, 18, 25
- Feb 1, 8, 15, 22
- Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
- Apr 5, 12, 19, 26
- May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
- Jun 7, 14, 21, 28
- Jul 5, 12, 19, 26
- Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- Sep 6, 13, 20, 27
- Oct 4, 11, 18, 25
- Nov 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
- Dec 6, 13, 20
Days
2026
- Jan 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
- Feb 7, 14, 21, 28
- Mar 7, 14, 21, 28
- Apr 4, 11, 18, 25
- May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- Jun 6, 13, 20, 27
- Jul 4, 11, 18, 25
- Aug 1, 29
- Sep 5, 12, 19, 26
- Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
- Nov 7, 14, 21, 28
- Dec 5, 12, 19, 26
Days
2027
- Jan 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- Feb 6, 13, 20, 27
- Mar 6, 13, 20, 27
- Apr 3, 10, 17, 24
- May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
- Jun 5, 12, 19, 26
- Jul 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
- Aug 21, 28
- Sep 4, 11, 18, 25
- Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
- Nov 6, 13, 20, 27
- Dec 4
Volunteer Teaching Abroad Programs Cost
- 1 Week
- 2 Weeks
- 3 Weeks
- 4 Weeks
- 5 Weeks
- 6 Weeks
- 7 Weeks
- 8 Weeks
- $895
- $995
- $1145
- $1295
- $1495
- $1695
- $1895
- $2095
Volunteer Teaching Abroad Program Fee Inclusions
- What’s Included
- Not Included
- Pre-departure guide to Cambodia
- Airport Pick-up from Phnom Penh on arrival
- Volunteer House Accommodation
- Home-cooked meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Location orientation
- Project training
- Project Placement and donation
- Weekly meeting with staff
- 24/7 Daily ground support as required
- Not Included
- Flights to the program destination
- Medical and travel insurance
- Visa costs
- Airport Drop on departure
- Lunch for volunteers whilst at the project
- Personal shopping and gratuities
- Local or weekend excursions
- Project materials
- Project travel costs
- Private or air-conditioned rooms
Volunteer Teaching Abroad Location
Your teaching placement is based in Phnom Penh, the heart and capital of Cambodia — a city where ancient charm and modern energy coexist beautifully. Once known as the Pearl of Asia, Phnom Penh sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers and is home to stunning temples, vibrant markets, and warm, resilient people.
Despite Cambodia’s rapid development, many schools in Phnom Penh continue to face shortages of trained teachers and educational resources. By joining this program, you’ll be contributing directly to the city’s grassroots education movement while discovering its incredible cultural heritage.
When you’re not teaching, you’ll have time to explore Phnom Penh’s rich tapestry of history and culture. Visit the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, stroll along the scenic Sisowath Quay, or learn about Cambodia’s history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and Killing Fields of Choeung Ek.
Weekends are ideal for exploring beyond the capital — from the majestic temples of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap to the tranquil beaches of Kampot and Sihanoukville, Cambodia offers a perfect balance of meaningful work and unforgettable travel.
Volunteer Teaching Abroad Nearest Airport
- The nearest airport for this program is Phnom Penh International Airport (PNH)
- Visas are possible on arrival at the airport and you may also get E-Visas. Please check requirements with your airline or Cambodian Embassy in your country based on your nationality.
- Travel Insurance is compulsory on this program.
Volunteer Teaching Abroad Accommodation, Meals and Set Up
During your time volunteering in Cambodia, you’ll stay in a comfortable volunteer house in Phnom Penh, conveniently located close to your project sites and local amenities.
Rooms: Shared with 2–4 volunteers (private rooms available upon request).
Facilities:
Clean, modern bedrooms with fans or air-conditioning
Western-style bathrooms
Shared common areas and Wi-Fi
Laundry service and on-site support staff
The accommodation is social yet homely, allowing you to meet fellow volunteers from around the world while still enjoying personal comfort and privacy.
🍜 Meals
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are provided daily, featuring traditional Khmer cuisine such as noodles, fried rice, and curries. Lunch is usually eaten locally at markets or small cafés, giving you the chance to enjoy authentic street food and interact with locals. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available.
🚕 Getting Around
You’ll travel to your placement by tuk-tuk or motor taxi, which are safe, affordable, and the most common way to get around Phnom Penh. Airport pickup and drop-off are included as part of your arrival orientation.
What your first week looks like
Arrival day
Weekdays
Weekend
Weekend activities
Angkor Wat
Weekend activities
Apsara Dance
Weekend activities
Otres Beach
Weekend activities
Tuol Sleng
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Angkor Wat
