Embark on an exhilarating week filled with adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences as you delve into the heart and soul of Cambodia. Get ready to explore, learn, and interact with the local community, allowing you to truly grasp the essence of this captivating country!

Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Siem Reap, a bustling hub known for its backpacker-friendly atmosphere, a famous nearby temple, and an exciting nightlife scene. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness Cambodia through the eyes of the locals, gaining valuable insights into their way of life and immersing yourself in their rich culture.

The culture week is thoughtfully designed to introduce you to the customs, traditions, and pace of Cambodian life. By familiarizing yourself with the surrounding town and its amenities, you’ll have everything you need to ensure a memorable and comfortable stay.

Prepare to be captivated by the country’s most renowned attractions, including the awe-inspiring temples of Siem Reap and Samraong. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Buddhism through a special Q&A session with local monks, deepening your understanding of this ancient religion.

During your stay in the enchanting city of Siem Reap, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in various activities that will enrich your experience. Learn basic “survival” language skills, enabling you to communicate with locals and immerse yourself further in the Cambodian way of life. Discover the secrets of traditional Cambodian cuisine through cooking lessons, where you’ll learn to prepare mouthwatering dishes and savor the fruits of your labor.

One of the highlights of the culture week is the chance to interact with the warm and welcoming local people, who are eager to learn about their own culture. Cambodia’s relaxed and unhurried pace of life allows for meaningful connections and cross-cultural exchange, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Throughout the week, each day holds a unique adventure.

Monday
Breakfast
Introduction meeting, House rules, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents
Khmer Do’s and Don’ts, Khmer Culture Lessons and Khmer Language Lessons.
Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops
Lunch
Visit the old market, supermarket, bank, ATM , Sim-card if necessary.
Excursion to Wat Preah Prom Rath and Wat Thmey, a small pagoda
Dinner
Evening at Pub Street and the night market, the liveliest area of Siem Reap

Tuesday
Breakfast
Bicycle tour to the village to see the lifestyle of the local people.
Lunch
Bicycle tour to the village to see the lifestyle of the local people
Dinner (BBQ night at the center)

Wednesday
Breakfast
Khmer cooking lesson
Lunch
Khmer language lesson
Dinner

Thursday
Breakfast
Food offering to the Monk at Local temple
Lunch
Enjoy the view from Phnom Krom (A mountain near Tonle Sap Lake)
Dinner

Friday
Breakfast
Art & Craft Lesson
Lunch
Project Meeting & Orientation

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Siem Reap, a vibrant province nestled among Cambodia’s 25 captivating regions, beckons with its allure. Nestled in the north, it boasts more than just the renowned Angkor Wat. Siem Reap promises an enchanting tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven. Beyond the grandeur of Angkor Wat, a realm of marvels unfurls. 

At the heart of Siem Reap, where dreams are crafted, lie the schools we collaborate with. Within Wat Svay Village, Sala Kamreuk Commune, Siem Reap town, these beacons of knowledge shine.

The children who come to the schools come from the surrounding villages. Their ages range from 6 to 13. Most currently possess just a basic level of English, but using our established curriculum, we are able to accommodate beginners all the way up to level 5.

Class sizes are typically between 10-45 students. Classrooms are equipped with basic teaching resources, such as a whiteboard and flash cards. You are highly encouraged to bring small learning materials and items to use in your class and/or donate to our school. These things are gratefully received and help to broaden the curriculum and teaching possibilities that we can offer.

The primary mode of transport to and from the accommodation/school will be on bicycles and you will do the project for a minimum of four hours with two shifts, one in the morning and the second in the afternoon.

Don’t worry about not having special qualifications. The whole idea of this program is to provide any help possible, whether it is merely enabling children to hear English pronunciation by native English speakers, or any additional help with other academic subjects or how to use a computer – anything you can offer is very much appreciated. The emphasis is on much-needed language development, additional learning and multi-cultural exchange.

Meanwhile, the core focus of the teaching project will depend upon the needs of the school at that particular point in time. Your main roles will be but are not limited to Teaching English alongside the local teachers, preparing and organizing lessons and meaningful learning activities with the local program coordinator and local teachers, and facilitating learning activities such as playing fun games, arts, songs, dances, grammar and conversational exercises, sports and other related activities, join other activities conducted at the school, prepare assessment exercises, check and Mark the examinations or assessment exercises.

In addition, during the teaching activities, always be on time and be mindful of class schedules and come to school prepared, be creative in preparing lessons in a fun and engaging ways, smile and have lots of patience as you are working with students with various personalities and wear a dress that covers their shoulders and knees, and basically, the more that is covered the better. Men must wear trousers, T-shirts and shoes and strictly follow the dress code policy. You are also expected to actively join other activities.

Of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and make memorable learning experiences as you touch the lives of these amazing community children.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast
Introduction meeting, House rules, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents
Khmer Do’s and Don’ts, Khmer Culture Lessons and Khmer Language Lessons.
Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops
Lunch
Visit the old market, supermarket, bank, ATM , Sim-card if necessary.
Excursion to Wat Preah Prom Rath and Wat Thmey, a small pagoda
Dinner
Evening at Pub Street and the night market, the liveliest area of Siem Reap

Tuesday to Friday
Teaching time with the students is divided into two shifts, with lunch and free time back at the accommodation in between.
After having breakfast at the accommodation, you will go to the placement/school alongside your coordinator for the first shift that begins in the morning from 08:00 -11:00 while the afternoon shift is from 14:00 – 17:00.

You should also expect to spend time working on the next day’s activities/exercises, so that you are prepared and comfortable for the duration of the lesson.

Your typical day will end with dinner that you will surely enjoy together with other participants.
Get ready to enjoy some additional activities designed especially for you.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Siem Reap emerges as a treasured gem among Cambodia’s diverse provinces and capital cities, tucked away in the northern embrace of the land. As travelers venture into its realm, they’re greeted by the splendid Angkor Wat, a treasure among treasures, anointed as one of the world’s seven wonders. 

Beyond this canvas of enchantment, another story unfolds. Among the city’s pockets lie opportunities, a calling to weave progress into the tapestry. Community spaces and ancient landmarks yearn for a loving touch, spaces where knowledge thrives, history echoes, and families find refuge. Here, construction is not just about building structures; it’s about linking hearts, uplifting communities, and forging a brighter tomorrow. Your hand, your skills – they are the bridge between dreams and reality.

This journey embraces sweat and dust, where your footsteps mark transformation. Focused on local schools, your hands will shape learning spaces, breathe new life into facilities, and paint the future for children of surrounding villages. And beyond, in the heart of the community, should the need arise, your touch will resonate, cementing connections.

The blueprint of your efforts will be etched on village schools, where walls echo with learning and sanitation blooms anew. Yet, the landscape might shift; villages might call. It all pivots on the need of the moment. But rest assured, your skills will be the compass, pointing toward the places where they are needed most. Each swing of the hammer, each layer of paint – they weave dreams, they uplift spirits. In this act of creation, you will find a new bond with the land, a deeper connection to the people, and an enduring mark on Siem Reap’s vibrant canvas.

On the other hand, you don’t need special qualifications or even to have experience in construction efforts, but do consider this job requires physical strength and endurance in hot weather conditions. In addition, your work will depend upon the needs of the school, community or recipients at that particular point in time. However, your main roles will be, but are not limited to:

Assist in the construction and renovations of communal infrastructures such as schools, churches, local houses and so on;
Digging and assembling construction materials;
– Help & Assist in the construction and renovations of school playgrounds;
– Make school pathways and fence;
– Build and renovate Toilet facilities;
– Repair and Renovate School walls;
– Help and assist in building new classrooms or any other school facilities;
– Help in Painting school buildings;
Gardening and Landscaping; and
– Repair and make tables & Chairs.

Finally, during the construction activities, please be careful and mindful when using construction equipment and materials, ask assistance from your local coordinators for heavy tasks and of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and have memorable learning experiences.

Schedule

Monday
Breakfast
Introduction meeting, House rules, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents
Khmer Do’s and Don’ts, Khmer Culture Lessons and Khmer Language Lessons.
Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops
Lunch
Visit the old market, supermarket, bank, ATM , Sim-card if necessary.
Excursion to Wat Preah Prom Rath and Wat Thmey, a small pagoda
Dinner
Evening at Pub Street and the night market, the liveliest area of Siem Reap

Tuesday to Friday
Breakfast
Engage in Constructions and Renovation Works and Activities.
Lunch
Engage in Constructions and Renovation Works and Activities.
Dinner

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

The school was designed, built, and completely operated by people like you, under the guidance of our native Cambodian manager and teacher Mr. Ya Nuth.

Since beginning his work with this rural Samraong community in 2008, Mr. Ya Nuth has become a leader in the local community. His efforts in developing local schools and hospitals, with the help of those like yourself, have had an immeasurably positive effect on the community. In 2013, the Greenway School was opened, offering a free educational/learning opportunity for those who couldn’t otherwise afford it.

Students attend a regular public school, where they don’t get the chance to learn a lot of English. The public school shifts are divided into a morning group and an afternoon group, giving the children a chance to come to our school during their free time (e.g. the morning group can attend our afternoon shift and vice versa). What is so unique and amazing about the Greenway School, is that the children come of their own accord and truly enjoy their time here.

Teaching takes place in a traditional classroom setting. However, we are very flexible and encourage you to be creative in your lesson planning. The most important thing to consider is that you remain within the scope of the established curriculum and its schedule.

Participants can expect to work alongside other local teachers or participants. This could mean 3-5 participants taking turns providing instruction during the course of the session. This could allow for smaller group engagement and when needed, one-on-one help for students who may be having challenges with the material. There will be an orientation before starting your work with students. During that orientation, the exact size, level of assignment and members of the teaching team will be determined.

To facilitate maximum learning and comprehension, you will need to continue the pace that has been set by school directors for the class you are working with. In order to ensure that the material is covered fully and the schedule is maintained, you will not be allowed to skip ahead. All participants will follow the prescribed curriculum and provide adequate review, which will allow students to be better prepared for weekly progress and end of year assessment tests.

The children who come to Greenway School, come from the Pul village, as well as five other surrounding villages. Their ages range from 6 to 13. Most currently possess just a basic level of English, but using our established curriculum, we are able to accommodate beginners all the way up to level 5.

Class sizes are typically between 10-30 students. Classrooms are equipped with basic teaching resources, such as a whiteboard and flash cards. You are highly encouraged to bring small learning materials and items to use in your class and/or donate to our school. These things are gratefully received and help to broaden the curriculum and teaching possibilities that we can offer.

The primary mode of transport to and from the accommodation/school will be on bicycles.

The core focus of the teaching project will depend upon the needs of the school at that particular point in time. Your main roles will be (but are not limited to):

Preparing English lesson plans. It is advised to be more engaging and more fun.
Teaching English with the assistance of the class teacher.

Administering monthly progress tests to evaluate the children’s level of knowledge in specific learning areas.

Besides passing on your English knowledge, you may also be able to share some basic hygiene and sanitation routines, as well as, your own experiences and cultural background.

In addition, during the teaching activities, always be on time and be mindful of class schedules and come to school prepared, be creative in preparing lessons in a fun and engaging ways, smile and have lots of patience as you are working with children with various personalities and wear a dress that covers their shoulders and knees, and basically, the more that is covered the better.

Men must wear trousers, T-shirts, and shoes and strictly follow the dress code policy. You are also expected to actively join other activities and of course to enjoy.

Finally, make the most of your stay and make memorable learning experiences.

Schedule

Monday
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
Khmer Do’s and Don’ts, Khmer Culture Lessons and Khmer Language Lessons.
Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops, and arrange a sim-card if necessary.
Lunch
Introduction to the Project, Visit Project site and start participating on the project.
Dinner

Tuesday to Friday
Teaching time with the students is divided into two shifts, with lunch and free time back at the accommodation in between.
After having breakfast at the accommodation, you will go to the placement/school alongside your coordinator for the first shift that begins in the morning from 08:00 -11:00 while the afternoon shift is from 14:00 – 17:00.

You should also expect to spend time working on the next day’s activities/exercises so that you are prepared and comfortable for the duration of the lesson. Your typical day will end with a savory dinner that you will surely enjoy together with other participants. Get ready to enjoy some additional activities designed especially for you.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Cambodia is predominantly an agricultural country in which the majority of people are farmers. However, there is very little knowledge when it comes to the science and art of cultivating plants and livestock. As such, it is important for locals to seek and develop agricultural partnerships that increase the resources available to them more efficiently.

Green Shoots Foundation (an international NGO) in collaboration with CIDO (Community-Based Integrated Development Organisation) is a spear-heading an agricultural skills training program at a local agricultural training center in Samraog, Cambodia.

This center will provide a free training course on not only the importance of how agriculture plays a vital role in the backbone of this country but also the use of sustainable farming practices as a way of bettering both current and future generations. The center is also the place to show all trainees and other farmers all the vegetables or crops they would like to plant. For the locals, the central aim they would like to benefit from attending these training lessons will be the opportunity to continue sustainable farming practices on their own. With renewed experiences and knowledge, the villagers will be able to start planting their own vegetables at home.

This project takes place in a dedicated project site 5 -6 km outside of our accommodation building. As such, you will need to cycle (15 – 20 mins) to and from our accommodation in order to join the week-long program.

The main activities are training local farmers and youth on agriculture from Monday to Friday from 0:800 to 17:00 in the afternoon. You will be expected to have a keen interest in outdoor gardening and basic building work. You must also be willing to work in the sun, not be too scared of insects and bugs and engage in some heavy lifting. For most tasks, you shall be with a local person. These key people who have extensive backgrounds in agriculture and project management will be your guide in deciding tasks or a project to complete.

All meals are provided at our accommodation. During your lunch break, you have the option to consume your packed lunch on site or go by bike back to the accommodation site.

Additionally, this program will give you the chance to experience the authentic countryside of Cambodia by living amongst locals and helping out the villagers on their farms.

Schedule

Monday
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
Khmer Do’s and Don’ts, Khmer Culture Lessons and Khmer Language Lessons.
Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops, and arrange a sim-card if necessary.
Lunch
Introduction to the Project, Visit Project site and start participating on the project.
Dinner

Tuesday to Friday
A typical day during this program may look like this:
Breakfast
Join the training session with an introduction to integrated farming.
Join the construction at the center and engage in land preparation.
Engage in a personal project: workshop and group work.
Lunch
Make a model of crops or vegetable beds
Visit some local families who are working with vegetables
Help the families with their daily vegetable work
Prepare Earth block mixture (clay) and materials for binding
Dinner

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Embark on a transformative journey where you can make a tangible impact by lending a helping hand to underdeveloped communities in Cambodia through construction and renovation work. Prepare to immerse yourself in a fulfilling experience filled with cultural exchange and valuable learning opportunities.

At the heart of this project lies a local school dedicated to serving impoverished children. Your primary focus will be on construction tasks within the school premises, where previous contributors, including skilled local tradesmen, have poured their efforts and resources. This remarkable educational facility now welcomes over three hundred students daily. However, the work here is far from complete, as we strive to construct new buildings, pathways, toilets, walls, and drainage systems to meet the evolving needs of the community.

For those with artistic talents, an opportunity awaits to decorate the school walls with vibrant murals and paintings depicting your home countries and cultures. This creative endeavor serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of individuals like yourself who have contributed over the years.

In addition to the school, you may also be involved in construction projects within the local village, including house renovations, building sanitation facilities, or supporting initiatives at the nearby hospital. The specific focus will depend on the pressing needs at the time, ensuring your construction skills are directed where they are needed most.

You don’t need special qualifications or even have experience in construction efforts, but do consider this job requires physical strength and endurance in hot weather conditions, however, activities focus only on light constructions. In addition, your work will depend upon the needs of the school, community or recipients at that particular point in time or you can look forward to working out in the local community, if construction and renovation jobs arise.

Your main roles will be, but are not limited to:
– Assist in the construction and renovations of communal infrastructures such as schools, Buddhist Temples, local houses and so on;
– Digging and assembling construction materials;
– Help and assist in the construction and renovations of school playgrounds;
– Make school pathways and fences around the school.
– Build and renovate Toilet facilities;
– Repair and Renovate School walls;
– Help and assist in building new classrooms or any other school facilities;
– Help in Painting school buildings;
– Gardening and Landscaping;
– Repair and make tables and chairs.
– Make Bookshelves for the School Library, – Make brick walls or tiles on the floor.
– Renovate the Computer room, make a brick wall and tile the floor.
– Build a registration and information office for parents to meet and get some information about the school.
– Make some Brick Walls.
– Build a place for compost or trash.
– Plant more trees.

In addition, during the construction activities, please be careful and mindful when using construction equipment and materials, ask assistance from your local coordinators for heavy tasks and of course to enjoy and make the most of your stay and have memorable learning experiences.

Schedule

Monday
Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
Khmer Do’s and Don’ts, Khmer Culture Lessons and Khmer Language Lessons.
Tour around the compound and local area; where to find local shops, and arrange a sim-card if necessary.
Lunch
Introduction to the Project, Visit Project site and start participating on the project.
Dinner

Tuesday to Friday
After breakfast, you will head off to the construction project; this will mainly be at our school, homes of local residents and local community facilities. There you will be briefed on your tasks for the day by our coordinator. You can expect to engage in construction and renovation work at the project location for 4-5 hours per day with a lunch break in between.

Lunch can be at our accommodation or near the project site.Your typical day will end with a savory dinner that you will surely enjoy together with other participants.

Get ready to enjoy some additional activities designed especially for you.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances

Immerse yourself in an impactful journey as you take part in the restoration of mangrove forests, combating the severe deforestation that has plagued these vital ecosystems in recent years.

Our project is dedicated to the conservation of mangrove plantations, recognizing their crucial role in today’s ecosystem and the well-being of future generations. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to contribute to the sustainable development of the local community, engaging in various community-based initiatives, including English teaching and other impactful projects.

Our mission is clear: to protect and preserve mangrove plantations by reversing the alarming trend of their destruction, which has escalated rapidly in recent times. This can only be achieved through a two-pronged approach involving the education of the younger generation and the hands-on work of planting new mangroves. Together, we will restore the balance and ensure a thriving future for these vital habitats.

Nestled in the southeastern part of Cambodia, the province of Kampot is emerging as a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, thanks to its abundance of natural wonders. However, the management of mangrove plantations is crucial for the sustainability of the tourism industry. Sadly, numerous mangrove sites along the local river banks have been lost, replaced by salt plantations that offer short-term profits. This unfortunate shift has also led to a rise in illegal fishing activities within the province.

While a background in environmental science or tourism and a good level of physical fitness would be advantageous, they are not prerequisites for joining this worthy cause. We welcome individuals who are passionate about conservation and eager to make a positive impact on the environment.

From Monday to Friday, your tasks and activities will vary based on the specific needs of the plantation site. Planting mangroves involves more than simply placing a seed in the ground, and you will receive guidance from local fishermen who will walk you through each step of the process. You may find yourself repairing young mangroves in plantations near the accommodation or embarking on a boat journey to the nearby delta (approximately 20 minutes) to collect seedlings for the nursery. Flexibility is key as we adapt to local conditions and prioritize the most pressing tasks.

As part of our commitment to the community, we also offer the opportunity to teach English to the village’s youth. By imparting language skills, you contribute to their educational development, empowering them for a brighter future. However, please note that teaching is entirely optional, and you are free to choose your level of involvement in this aspect of the project.

Weekends are yours to savor and explore the wonders of Cambodia. Many participants opt to embark on their own adventures, taking in the rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty of the country. Alternatively, we offer an optional itinerary at no extra cost, focusing on the most vulnerable members of the Kampot community. It is a source of pride for us to distribute second-hand clothes to those in need, and if you have any clothes you would otherwise discard, we encourage you to bring them along to contribute to this worthy cause.

Please note that the program commences on the first and third Monday of each month, providing you with ample opportunities to join this impactful journey.

As with any endeavor, our schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions, local circumstances, and unforeseen events, ensuring your safety and the optimal utilization of resources.

Prepare to make a meaningful difference, connect with nature, and leave a lasting legacy as we join forces to restore mangrove forests, protect the environment, and uplift local communities.

This schedule can be changed and/or amended depending on weather conditions, local conditions and unforeseen circumstances