Ballet, Dance, Music and Arts Volunteer

  Thailand

• Chiang Mai: 
Chiang Mai

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 3-6 months, 7-12 months and 1-2 years
Typical Duration of Program: 3-6 months
Dates: Open

Description: The Starfish Country Home School is a free bilingual alternative school for needy children in rural Chiangmai province or northern Thailand, although its current 26 children age four to eight still have limited capability in using English. The site, which was formerly a resort, has attractive facilities including swimming pools, tennis court and performance building. It is located about 45 km (27 miles) from the city of Chiangmai. A large new elementary school is under construction at the site.

The volunteer or intern will teach young children most of whom are now age four to eight classical and modern ballet and preferably some combination of other forms of dance, vocal and instrumental music, acting, performing and visual arts, gymnastics, yoga, games, swimming, sports, etc. All volunteers and interns are involved in teaching the children English through formal classes, special lessons or direct contact.

This position requires work on most weekends and after 3 PM on at least three weekdays. Volunteers or interns can stay in a modern room at the site and eat free at the site and can, if desired, stay free at our Starfish Home site in the city when not otherwise working. Volunteers and interns can expect to work about eight hours a day on weekends and four hours a day on each of three weekdays.

Volunteers or interns must commit to stay at least three months. All volunteers or interns will receive a stipend of 4000 baht (~US$130) at the end of each month to cover local expenses. Volunteers or interns that have completed at least six months will be supported to obtain a work permit and will receive reimbursement of their initial visa and visa renewal expenses. Volunteers or interns that have completed one year can receive travel reimbursement of up to $800.

Highlights: The young, enthusiastic and sometimes talented children. Living in quiet surroundings. Opportunities for creative expression. There is the possibility for independent travel in the region during some school breaks.

Qualifications: The volunteer or intern must have experience in classical and modern ballet. The person must have some additional skills in the arts or in leading activities for children etc. that they can teach others. Although a knowledge of Thai language would be useful, it is not required. The person may be required to provide references and be certified to have no criminal record.

Minimum Education: High School

Salary / Pay: Stipend to all volunteers or interns of 4000 baht (~US$130) a month for local expenses. Reimbursement of initial visa and work permit costs after completion of six months. Reimbursement of up to $800 for travel costs after completion of one year. Reimbursement of personal medical insurance costs up to $200 after completion of one year. Free use of a modern room and food consumed at the site.

Experience Required: yes

Ballet and other forms of dance.

Typical Volunteer: Most previous volunteers have been recent university graduates or in their 30s with relevant experience.

Age Range: >18

This Program is open to Worldwide Participants.

Participants Travel to Thailand Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently

Application Process Involves:

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment
• Other
• Phone Interview
• Resume
• Written Application

Starfish Country Home School Foundation's Mission Statement: The Starfish Country Home School will provide a quality education and living environment for all of its students so that they can lead a happy and productive lives. Academic excellence, individual creativity, personal responsibility and concern for others and for the environment are our goals.

Year Founded: 2005