Teaching Assistant Program in Kenya

This experience takes place in Nakuru, Kenya, where volunteers support local teachers in community schools and Child Development Centres. The role is designed as a teaching assistant position, not independent teaching.

Volunteers assist primarily with English language support, classroom activities, and structured learning routines. The focus is on consistency, cultural exchange, and supporting existing education systems rather than replacing local teachers.

What a Typical Day Looks Like

Weekdays follow a predictable routine that balances classroom time and preparation:

• Breakfast at the accommodation

• Travel to the local school

• Assisting teachers during morning lessons

• Supporting children with English, exercises, and activities

• Lunch break

• Afternoon classroom support or creative activities

• Lesson preparation for the following day

• Dinner and free time

Evenings are generally free to rest, reflect, or connect with others in the local area.

Role of the Volunteer

Volunteers support teachers rather than lead classrooms independently.

Typical responsibilities include:

• Assisting with English lessons and basic academic subjects

• Helping students build confidence through reading, writing, and speaking

• Organising creative activities such as games, storytelling, music, and arts and crafts

• Supporting daily school routines, including basic hygiene activities

• Helping with assessments and classroom organisation

• Running structured English and sports programs during school holidays

Volunteers are expected to follow guidance, respect local norms, and maintain a patient, positive attitude.

In and around Nakuru, school days begin early. Children arrive curious and alert. Classrooms are busy. Resources are stretched. Teachers keep going anyway.

This placement brings you into that space as support, not authority.

You’ll spend your days in community schools and child development centers, working alongside local teachers. Much of the focus is on English, but learning here is never only about language. It’s about confidence. Participation. Being seen and heard. Lessons often blend structure with play. Songs. Stories. Drawing. Simple games that turn attention into understanding.

The students vary in age. Some are very young. Others already tall enough to think they know everything. Your role shifts with them. Helping explain a task. Reading together. Encouraging a shy child to speak. Keeping energy moving without losing calm.

School life includes more than lessons. You’ll be part of daily routines too. Handwashing. Hygiene checks. Shared responsibility. During school holidays, the pace changes again. Day-camp programs take over, mixing English practice with sports and group activities that give kids space to move and relax while still learning.

Evenings are quieter. Time to plan the next day. Time to rest. Time to sit with what you’ve seen.

The program runs throughout the year and starts weekly. Participants must be at least eighteen, with intermediate English and a genuine interest in working with children. No formal teaching credentials are required. Patience and adaptability matter far more.

Nothing here is flashy. The impact comes from repetition. Showing up. Being steady. Offering care without rushing results.

Over weeks, that steadiness takes root.
In the classroom.
And in the quiet confidence you carry home with you.

Supervision and Support

This program operates within a supervised framework:

• Local teachers lead all academic content

• Experienced coordinators provide training and daily guidance

• Volunteers receive clear expectations and boundaries

• Local support is available 24/7

This structure ensures a safe and productive environment for students and volunteers alike.

Who This Experience Is For

This experience is a good fit if you:

• Enjoy working with children in a classroom setting

• Are patient, adaptable, and comfortable supporting others

• Want teaching exposure without full responsibility

• Value structure and cultural exchange

It may not be suitable if you are looking for:

• Independent teaching roles

• Short-term or drop-in volunteering

• Unstructured placements

Where This Experience Is Available

This teaching assistant experience is based in Nakuru, Kenya, and forms part of our Kenya volunteer programs.

Availability and suitability are confirmed during the application review process.