Wild Coast Schools - Computer Literacy and Sports Program

  South Africa

Rural Areas

Durations of Program: 2-4 weeks and 5-8 weeks
Typical Duration of Program: 5-8 weeks
Dates: Available throughout the year

Description: For volunteers with an interest in making a real difference to the lives of some very special South African children, the Wild Coast Schools Project will see you playing a vital role in the introduction of Computer Literacy Skills and a Sports Program to a growing number of rural schools on the Wild Coast, the land of Nelson Mandela's birth.

As a volunteer you will enjoy an exciting and varied program, which includes a comprehensive orientation week and a wide range of adventurous and cultural activities for your spare time. All meals and accommodation are included in a beautiful setting on the shores of the warm Indian Ocean amongst lagoon dune forest.

Interactive Sports Development
The project, Sports Initiative, is an exciting drive to introduce and develop on-going growth and appreciation in the sporting arena in socio-economically challenged areas of the Wild Coast. For the most part, schools lack the resources and the capacity to provide effective sports opportunities for their learners.

Computer Literacy Skills Development
Computer Literacy, considered in today's developed societies as a basic human right, is only in its infancy in the Wild Coast region. In the few schools that have electricity, very few have computers, and those that have computers have been left to develop in a vacuum with inappropriate and non-existent support structures.

Highlights: Volunteer Testimonial

Zoe Durnford - 21 from the UK
"Volunteering with the Wild Coast Schools project was amazing. The project itself is incredibly rewarding, you really do know that you are making a difference to not just the children's lives, but also the entire community. You get to experience an array of different types of schools, development and children. The teachers are very accepting and willing to help you out.

The small community you're based in is so friendly and you really get a feel of South Africa. The whole village seems to be involved in the project and there is a real sense of community and making a difference. I made so many friends, not just with the other volunteers but the children, teachers, project leaders and locals! Definitely worth a visit! I've wanted to be back ever since I got home!"

Qualifications: No previous experience is required, although basic computer literacy skills and/or an interest in sports would be useful!

Cost in US$: USD 2180 for first 4 weeks, USD 450 per week thereafter

* East London Airport collection and drop-off.
* A comprehensive welcome brief from a member of the on-site team.
* Accommodation in a cottage close to a lagoon bordering the Indian Ocean.
* All your meals during your project.
* Project orientation activities.
* Transfers to and from the rural schools.
* Advice and support from our experienced team during your stay.
* Our booking service for all attractions and events.
* An attractive certificate recognising your contribution to the Wild Coast Schools project.

If you would like to spend some time with us in Cape Town, you have the option of adding a special Cape Town Week to your stay. Everything below is included with the Cape Town Week:

* Cape Town Airport collection and drop-off.
* A Welcome Pack complete with many useful items that will help you settle in, and an opportunity to let your family or friends know you have arrived safely.
* An embroidered AVIVA Fleece.
* Accommodation at one of our AVIVA Houses in Cape Town before and after your project, with self-service breakfasts.
* Return flights between Cape Town and the Eastern Cape to join your project.
* 7 nights accommodation at one of our AVIVA Houses in Cape Town with self-service breakfasts.
* A full-day Peninsula tour which includes lunch, visits to Hout Bay, Chapmans Peak Drive, Cape Point, Simon's Town, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and much more. An incredible day rich with history and some of the worlds most beautiful scenery.
* A half-day Cultural tour, a fascinating introduction to South Africas recent political history before and after Apartheid, includes highlights of Khayelitsha, South Africas second largest township after Soweto.
* A full-day tour to the beautiful mountains of the Cape Winelands including the Paarl, Franschoek and Stellenbosch regions. Chocolate, Cheese & Wine tastings and lunch are included.
* If required, extra nights can be added to your stay to meet your flight dates for only R120 per night. This may help you to take advantage of any cheaper flights that arrive in South Africa before your planned arrival date.

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A typical volunteer: * is open to experiencing new cultures and meeting people from around the world. * is tolerant and respectful of others, no matter what their beliefs or background. * looks forward to broadening their horizons and exploring new lands. * is flexible and adapts well to new situations and environments. * is self-disciplined with a sense of independance. * sees that volunteering provides them with a rewarding way in which to develop their own personal qualities and character while giving something back to the planet. * is pro-active and looks for opportunities to experience their new surroundings. * acknowledges that South Africa in many ways is still a developing country and thus will provide them with a wide range of new experiences.

Age Range: 18-40 yrs old

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to South Africa Independently or in Groups

Typically Participants Work in Groups of 3-5

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

AVIVA - Volunteering in South Africa's Mission Statement: Widely regarded to be one of the world's leading volunteer organisations, AVIVA is committed to supporting sustainable community, wildlife and conservation projects while providing international volunteers with rewarding, life changing experiences in South Africa. AVIVA provides full in-country support, all in-country transfers, accommodation, meals on most projects and a wide range of other benefits. Pre-arrival support is also second to none, with quick response to all enquiries, and expert assistance from their Cape Town based team every step of the way. AVIVA is the only volunteer organisation that provides a free personal trip planner & comprehensive fundraising assistance for volunteers. Previous experience is not required as all necessary training and supervision is provided. Since 2002, AVIVA have hosted volunteers of all ages and backgrounds from over 50 countries. So whether you are a student, taking a career break, or have retired and are looking for a way to travel & make a real difference, the AVIVA team would love to see you in South Africa. Visit AVIVA's web site to learn more, or make a no obligation application using their online booking form...

Year Founded: 2002