Thailand – Family-Friendly Learn, Volunteer and Travel

The Kingdom of Thailand sits somewhere between becoming developed and being completely wild. As a volunteer, you could enjoy a faster pace of life in a coastal city or base yourself in a tribal village. Wherever you are in the country, as a volunteer you’ll be able to contribute to projects that make a real difference in local communities.

Sing Buri is a beautiful town located 142 kilometers north of Bangkok. It was founded during the reign of King Rama V through consolidation of three small towns located on the bank of The Chao Phraya River, north of Ang Thong. The town boasts an impressive collection of temples and colorful architecture that create the perfect backdrop for the numerous festivals held during the year.

You will have the option to choose between teaching at local schools and participating in construction projects at one of two schools for designed for the children of disadvantaged families.

Teaching: At this placement you will teach English to students aged 4-21 in one of many rural schools in Sing Buri. The schools accept an informal teaching approach, meaning that you are able to use your own methods or style to educate the students. When volunteering, your duties may include:

• Informally teaching and assisting with school work
• Creating activities for the students
• Arranging workshops for cultural exchange, environmental awareness and other important issues

Thai schools show respect each day to the King of Thailand and may ask participants to join the 8:00 AM ceremony and be part of the morning exercises that are common in Thai schools. Please note that the subjects taught may change depending on current activities in the schools, environmental issues or current festivals.

Construction and Renovation: There are many primary and secondary schools in Thailand for poor children from remote areas of the country. The children have limited access to education so they travel to the school for lessons and return home during certain periods of the year. Most of the year, the children remain in the school where they can enjoy a safe and secure environment with food and housing. There are also opportunities to engage with the schoolchildren via informal teaching and games. Your duties may include:

• Maintaining the buildings and grounds
• Renovating and light construction projects
• Teaching the children
• Playing games with the children

A typical day: At the school placement your schedule can be flexible, but you should be prepared to volunteer three-six hours per day beginning at 8:30 AM, Monday to Friday. At the schools, you will also volunteer around three-six hours a day, but will begin working after 9:00 AM, Monday to Friday.

Holidays: When confirming your dates, please take note of the long holidays (which are from mid-March until mid-May and during all of October). During such times the kids leave the schools and go back to their families or their villages. Special classes and English camps are arranged, as well as renovation projects. Additionally, when relevant, volunteers are able to take part in the cultural festivities occurring in the area.

Internet: WiFi is available.

Laundry: Laundry can be done by hand, or at a local laundromat (walking distance) for a small fee.

Accommodations: Families will stay in a private family room. These rooms are located apart from the regular volunteer residences, to allow for more quiet and privacy. All rooms have air conditioning, mosquito protection and a private bathroom with hot-water showers. There are restaurants and small local stores within walking distance of each of the accommodations.

Food: Three meals are provided during the week and two meals on the weekends. Meals are typical Thai fare, including plenty of rice dishes. The project can easily cater for vegetarians.
During the week, participants will be provided with breakfast, lunch and dinner. On Saturday and Sunday, volunteers will receive brunch, and then dinner if staying for a volunteer program in Sing Buri. Typical dishes include vegetables with fried rice or noodles. Some Western-style dishes would also be available. Breakfasts are varied and include pancakes, fresh fruit, toast. etc. Tea, coffee and purified water are available at the house. We do not recommend that you drink the tap water.

Please take note of this project’s minimum requirements:

• Good level of English
• Police clearance
• Motivation to work with children and meet new cultures
• Able to work in hot and humid climate
• Children must be at least five years old

Thailand’s central province of Sing Buri is home to a handful of temples and historical sites; and of course there is a nearby market waiting to be discovered! A few places for volunteers to explore on weekends include:

Wat Pikun Thong
Wait Pikun Thong is an ancient temple that is home to one of the largest Buddha statues in Thailand. This large golden figure is a famous symbol and a commonly sought-after destination for tourists.
Pak Bang Market
Over 150 years old, the Pak Bang Market is an essential go-to for those who wish to have a taste of Thai market food and desserts.
Mae La Maharacha Nusorn Park
This national park is an excellent option for volunteers who are looking to relax in nature by the Mae La River. There is a fish breeding and conservation project that is located in the park as well.
In Buri National Museum
The In Buri National Museum is located near to the Wat Bot Temple, and contains ancient artifacts from various historical areas of Thailand as well as Chinese ceramics.

Travel Extras (Not Included):
You can extend your stay with one or more great program add-ons for an additional fee. Here are the opportunities we recommend:

• Culture Week (highly recommended): This seven-day jam-packed week is a great opportunity to learn about Thailand and meet other international volunteers. It offers tours around historical areas (Ayutthaya historical park), Thai language lessons, cooking lessons, taste-testing (Thai BBQ), school visits, sightseeing (Wat Phra Phutthabat Temple – Buddha’s footprint) and so much more! This week will ease you into your volunteering experience by providing you with a better understanding of the history, culture and customs. Please note that the schedule can change at any time based on the weather conditions.
• Thai Boxing: Sign up for authentic and traditional Thai boxing classes under the instruction of Sing Buri’s provincial champion. Learn the basic principles and foundations of the exquisite art form, Muay Thai.
• Hua Hin Beach & Volunteer Week: This busy week will help you make the most of your experience in Thailand. You will have the chance to go on cultural excursions to learn about Thai Buddhism and assist monks with daily chores. You will also have the opportunity to teach local children with some time dedicated to beach conservation. In a few afternoons, you will have free time to relax at the beaches of Hua Hin!
• Jungle Trek: Get ready for adventure as you trek through the tropical forests west of Sing Buri. You’ll have the opportunity to sleep under the stars, trek to spectacular waterfalls and caves hidden in the jungle and more!
• Thai Buddhism Immersion in Wang Nam Khiao: During this week-long program you will be introduced to Buddhism. You will have the chance to discuss Buddhism with a local monk and enjoy a two-day stay at the Wat Suptawee Temple to learn walking and sitting meditation forms as well as experience the daily life of monks.