Teaching Volunteer Project in the Philippines - Palawan

I would like to be a teacher and I am going to study this at uni next year, so this was an amazing experience for me to get stuck in and have a taster of what I am going to be doing. I gained so much confidence in the classroom as the teachers gave us the freedom to teach the class ourselves, and I found the best part was to be able help the children that needed extra help, as I did when I was in school. The lesson planning ensured I was disciplined and I am glad we didn’t just get given a plan, but we had to create them ourselves; making our own powerpoints and worksheets made the experience much more valuable for me as I had to learn new skills and it allowed me to understand what I was teaching more thoroughly.

Advice: You have to remember that being an effective volunteer isn't easy, and there can be times which make you question the effectiveness of your work, however, if you remain patient and motivated you will make a difference! Be open to the new culture and cuisine, trying your best to learn more about it from the local people, and you will have a much more enjoyable time than if you’re closed minded.

I've learned new things about a different culture, including a few basic phrases in Tagalog. I've also learned and developed new skills like planting mangroves and working with pupils whose first language isn't English. I would encourage anyone to volunteer in the Philippines for a few weeks, it is totally worth it.

Like so many others have said in reviews, honestly if volunteering abroad is something you have thought of doing for a long time just do it. You won’t regret it. There is so much support you just have to ask. You’re never alone there’s always people there that you will meet and who are in the same boat as you. It’s the most life changing experience. Do the best you can to help the communities, they really do appreciate it! I loved my whole experience and it is something I would like to do again through ivhq, something I will never forget.

I have changed completely as a person without even realizing it. From such a young age my whole perspective on life has shifted, I have been humbled completely, and I am everlastingly grateful for the opportunity I have been able to take part in, I believe I have grown as a person and made lifelong connections with people and kids I never believed I could have without the help of IVHQ. I too was hesitant about starting the programme at first, but truly all my fears disappeared as soon as I immersed myself within such a vast and unforgettable culture, filled with smiling people! No regrets!

I’ve never traveled / volunteered in my life before, but pushing myself out of my comfort zone and looking for a great volunteering website was the greatest thing I could’ve ever done for myself! I’ve gone all the way around the world for 2 months and as scary as it was starting my trip I wouldn’t have done anything different. The kids I have taught while being there were the sweetest kids I’ve ever met, the people I’ve met from all over the world have become very special people in my life and the coordinators within my local program were very supportive and feel like a second family for me. I honestly can’t wait to do this all over again, my experience volunteering around the world will forever be the greatest thing in my life!

What an amazing and enriching opportunity to have gotten to play a role in delivering education to such brilliant and beautiful children. I am also so thankful to have shared my experience with such an incredible group of staff and volunteers. Thank you to everyone who made my time in the Philippines so special. The memories I have made volunteering abroad will always be stored in the most precious part of my heart.

The meals were by far the best I have ever had in any volunteer accommodation I have ever stayed in. This is my 4th IVHQ Program and I have found them all to be impactful, fulfilling, safe and affordable.

In addition, the program guide was filled with valuable information that helped me prepare for this opportunity. Specifically, the information regarding the visa I found to be quite helpful.