Volunteer in Thailand with Volunteering Solutions

Volunteer Teaching Monks in Thailand

Our volunteers teach novice Buddhist monks, ranging in age from 12-18, at five different monastery schools. Objectives of the schools consist of "enhancing the knowledge of monks and novices in both religious and secular subjects" and "providing secondary education for boys who are unable to afford such opportunities elsewhere." All the students at four of the schools are novice monks and many, but not all, of the faculty and administration are Buddhist monks. One of the schools has both novice monk students and non-monk students (however the majority are monks) separated by classroom.  Volunteers assist the Thai faculty with English (and optionally in art) education roughly 15-20 hours a week (Monday – Friday).

You will have the choice of either leading your own class or assisting a Thai teacher in his or her daily lessons.  Your placement is completely dependent upon your level of comfort within the classroom.  Depending upon your educational background, you may also want to teach art or help in other subject areas and activities that may be occurring at the school during you service.  It is important to the school administration that volunteers aid in English education at the school, but also that volunteers receive a rich experience about Thailand, Thai culture and Buddhism during their service.  For this reason, be prepared to learn as much as you teach.  Also, know that Thai Buddhist monks aren’t known for being in a hurry.  Therefore, the atmosphere at the temple schools is rather relaxed.

During their service, volunteers are welcomed to join the students and teachers in practicing group meditation, Buddhist prayers and chants, along with other religious and cultural celebrations and activities that occur within the school and community.  However, these activities are optional for the volunteer.  The students and administration will not be hurt or upset if a volunteer doesn’t want to take part in the religious activities.  They’re just happy you are there to help out.