The opportunity to work with children has been incredibly precious to me. Experiencing the local lifestyle was eye-opening and completely new, challenging but extremely enriching. As someone used to a Western lifestyle, volunteering in Thailand offered unique challenges and rewards. It taught me the values of gratitude, love, and simplicity. For anyone hesitant about joining this program, I would say that while it may be challenging, the benefits far outweigh the difficulties. You’ll gain invaluable experiences and a deeper appreciation for different cultures.
Teaching English Volunteer Project in Thailand - Chiang Rai
Purpose
Improve access to quality education
Start dates
Programs start every first and third Monday of the month
Duration
Choose from 2-12 weeks
Volunteer hours
Up to 5 hours a day
Age
Volunteers aged 18+ and families
Accommodation
Volunteer house
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
This program is ideal for:
Volunteers who speak fluent English and are interested in education and sharing their language skills with other people. You’ll be supported by local staff so no teaching experience is required but some relevant training like a TEFL course would be helpful.
Project details
Want to Teach English as a volunteer in Thailand - Chiang Rai? International Volunteer HQ’s Teaching English project empowers volunteers to assist with educational initiatives in local villages and hill tribes in northern Thailand. Volunteers will gain teaching experience while helping provide language learning for people who otherwise have limited access to formal education. Learning English can open the door to a swathe of employment opportunities for people in Thailand.
What to expect and how you'll make an impact
In northern areas of Thailand, rural people have very limited access to formal education. There is a real need for volunteers to assist in teaching not only young children, but also adults from surrounding hill tribes and local villages.
As a Teaching English volunteer you’ll assist local teachers and other volunteers in taking lessons for students of all ages. You can also expect to teach some classes on your own and this will be dependent on numbers at the time.
Time is set aside each day for you to prepare your lessons and you will need to record these lesson plans in the local teams database. Teaching English volunteer duties can vary but often include:
- Daily school assembly and activities
- Teaching classes with the local teachers or independently
- Tutoring students in groups or individually
- Helping with pronunciation and word use
- Arranging educational activities (academic and vocational)
- Helping students with conversational practice
Why do Teaching English volunteering in Chiang Rai with IVHQ?
As a volunteer English teacher in Chiang Rai you’ll be adding value to the local community, while also developing personally and professionally by:
- Helping students access language learning opportunities
- Supporting local education initiatives
- Developing your communication skills
- Gaining teaching experience
- Immersing yourself in Thai culture
- Learning about the hill tribes of northern Thailand
Volunteer requirements
- Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate in this program and may be asked to provide additional documentation to the local team
- All volunteers aged 13+ are required to provide a criminal background check to IVHQ prior to departure. Those aged 13-17, if unable to obtain a criminal background check, can provide two character reference letters instead
- All volunteers are required to have adequate volunteer travel insurance
- All volunteers must speak fluent English.
Are you eligible to volunteer?
Submit a free application so we can confirm your eligibility and check availability for your preferred dates.
Not sure which program to join?
Get personalized recommendations >
Who is going?
Group video calls
Once you have secured your place, join regular video calls to meet your Program Manager and other volunteers before your trip.
Thailand photo gallery
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Outdoor Work project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Outdoor Work project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Outdoor Work project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teaching English projectteer project in Thailand with IVHQ
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Outdoor Work project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Childcare project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Animal Care project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ Teaching English project
IVHQ orientation
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
Exploring during an IVHQ weekend
What recent volunteers said about their IVHQ experience
JK
Jitka Kujalova
03 Jul 2024
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CC
Conner Clark
06 Jul 2023
Amazing conversation information and support whenever needed from the local team. Working directly with locals and working in and around their villages helped to create an immediate sense of satisfaction and appreciation. Accommodation was great and everything I could have needed. Any concerns or questions I had were resolved or answered quickly. The meals were truly a highlight - every meal was deliciously authentic and ridiculously good. There was certainly no shortage of food for myself or other volunteers.
There were too many great examples to give only one favourite moment. The staff and local volunteers I worked alongside were amazing people who made me feel comfortable, safe and had a wealth of knowledge. So the people were my favourite highlight.
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AW
Alice Wright
03 Apr 2023
Absolute amazing support from IVHQ while deciding my sabbatical.
When I was first accepted I was offering my time - I had no skills or experience but I honestly wanted something different, and I got it. I wrote a thread on Facebook to my lovely friends and loving family very often commenting on how lucky we are in NZ, this beautiful experience has made me grateful for what I have returned to. I loved every minute and hour of my journey.
Home stays was the absolute moment for me and I was blessed to be able to have 3 wonderful great experience. Will always be in my heart.
I can only say, this has changed my life for the good and forever. We work for a comfortable life yes, but the beautiful Thai people work to live, something I have never thought about.
For those still hesitant about volunteering abroad, I say give it a go! I am 61 and experienced my journey with a 69 and almost 72 year old. Prior to going I suffered from a knee injury, rheumatoid arthritis and thyroid issues but knowing this I felt the drive and passion to do something different in my life, never wanted for anything but gave everything I had to give.
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NF
Nanette Fairley
22 Feb 2023
My Program Manager did a great job answering my questions. I had quite a few as was taking my two younger nephews with me for this volunteer assignment. Appreciated the detail on the website and in IVHQ's responses.
The local team was fabulous ensuring we both settled, saw something of the area and also were fed and practical needs taken care of. I was very grateful to the local team for checking in and briefing us ongoing. Made the placement easy to settle in. Couldn't have asked for better support. Our shift boss, cultural guide, homestay host and just an overall good guy, was a pleasure to work with. Encouraging and positive - we could not have done better.
Overall, I felt we did add some value in the community we worked in.
IVHQ have partnered with some awesome NGO's around the world and their screening process can be trusted. I will be doing another IVHQ volunteer assignment in another part of the the world soon!
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AH
Anwar Husain
10 Aug 2022
I loved building the rice farm. It was days of hard work in the hot sun but very fulfilling to know that it would provide ongoing food for a family in the future. Great experience with IVHQ in Thailand. Very well organized. It was life-changing!
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Sarah Limon
11 Feb 2021
IVHQ Thailand was the amazing experience I was looking for! The staff was incredible and working with them and the local school helped me decide to be an international teacher! My favorite moment was meeting all new people and hearing their stories of where they have been or where they are going. Also getting close to the staff and feeling like I could talk to them if I had a problem. I think that volunteers should know that teaching is not easy and you do have to make sure you take the time to plan out lessons. As a certified teacher I have experience with lesson planning but those that don't should just be sure to put in some time into what you are doing and volunteering for. I had a great experience in Thailand and with IVHQ and it has made me want to travel more and continue with new adventures!
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To read all reviews, visit our reviews page.
Academic course credit
Academic course credit
Gain course credit from your college or university and meet your academic requirements when completing a volunteer abroad program with International Volunteer HQ!
Learn about course creditRecommended online TEFL course
Recommended online TEFL course
We encourage volunteers on IVHQ’s Teaching and Childcare projects to come prepared by completing some relevant training, such as a Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) course. Although formal teaching qualifications are not required on these projects as volunteers are supported by local staff, taking a TEFL course enables you to gain more from the experience. Visit our Online TEFL Course page to learn how to gain an internationally recognized TEFL certification at a discounted rate.
Get TEFL certified onlineLocation
Location
Chiang Rai is a city in the northernmost province of Thailand renowned for its beautiful mountain scenery, historic sites and authentic Thai atmosphere. It’s a great spot for those wanting to get off the beaten path and experience Thailand in a more relaxed manner than you might do in the bustling capital city of Bangkok or the popular islands of the south.
While Thailand is considered a reasonably well-developed country with low rates of extreme poverty and unemployment, there is an enormous socio-economic disparity between the wealthy and the rest of the population. Volunteers provide valuable assistance with improving conditions for low-income communities and contribute to local initiatives that help Thailand continue to develop and reduce inequalities. Volunteer placements are located near the volunteer headquarters in Chiang Rai and in the hills with local hill tribes.
Arrival and orientation
The Thailand volunteer program begins on the first and third Monday of each month, and you need to arrive in Chiang Rai before 5pm on Monday.
After you have registered for the program, please book your flights to arrive at Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI). Your airport pick-up is included in your Program Fee.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the airport by a member of the local team and transported to the volunteer accommodation a short drive from Chiang Rai. Your accommodation is covered by your Program Fee and includes the night of your program orientation.
If you are travelling in Thailand prior to your volunteer program, we can arrange for you to be picked up from a meeting point in Chiang Rai at 11am on the Monday morning.
On Monday, you’ll spend the day resting, meeting other volunteers and the local team. Orientation is hosted by our local team at the office in Chiang Rai. Orientation begins on the Tuesday morning after your chosen start date and runs for the entire day. Orientation covers everything you need to know for your volunteer program in Thailand – an introduction to Thailand, Thai customs, rules and expectations, safety, travel opportunities in Thailand, and an introduction to your project and placement. The orientation will also give you a chance to meet other volunteers and swap contact details for weekend travel and socialising.
Volunteer schedule example
Weekdays: A volunteer day is subject to change depending on your particular project and placement and the time of year that you are volunteering. A typical daily schedule might be as follows:
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast at the volunteer accommodation |
| 8:30 AM | Morning meeting for all volunteers |
| 9:00 - 11:30 AM | Volunteer work begins. Work and hours are dependent on the project and placement that each volunteer is working at. Lunch breaks vary in time depending on the working schedule, but all volunteers get an hour to eat and relax |
| 1:00 PM | Volunteer work continues |
| 5:00 PM | Dinner at the volunteer accommodation |
| 6:00 PM | Volunteers have free time to spend as they wish; however, many volunteers use this time to plan lessons or do extra work for their projects |
Weekends: As the working week runs from Tuesday to Saturday, Sunday and Monday are considered the weekend for volunteers on the Thailand program. During the weekends, volunteers have spare time and usually just relax or take the opportunity to explore other parts of Chiang Rai and Thailand.
In Chiang Rai alone you can visit Wat Rong Khun, the breathtakingly ornate White Temple; see Wat Phra Kaew, the original home of the famous Emerald Buddha which now resides in Bangkok; or do some shopping and sample the fabulous food at the daily Night Bazaar or at the Walking Street Market during the weekend where a whole street closes to traffic to accommodate stalls and stands. It’s also a great place to go cycling, take a hike or learn about the region’s long and rich history and diverse culture. Other parts of Thailand offer spectacular scenery and wildlife, phenomenal beaches and an amazing selection of adventure and relaxation activities.
Accommodation and WiFi
You will be staying in a volunteer house that is located at the Teaching English placement. Volunteers will be accommodated in a variety of rooms based in the nearby staff housing, these rooms vary from one bed to 4 beds.
The bedrooms have a combination of traditional Thai mattresses which are usually placed on the floor, and standard Western-style beds (dependent on volunteer numbers). Volunteers are provided with bedding, fans and storage for personal belongings. Some rooms will have an ensuite, but the majority has a separate shared bathroom. Volunteers will have to use a laundry service and purchase their own toilet paper, either close to the volunteer house or in the main city center.
Meals
Traditional Thai cuisine is designed to appeal to the four fundamental taste senses with a balance of sour, sweet, salty, and bitter flavors. Common ingredients in Thai cooking include fish sauce, shrimp paste, chili paste, coconut milk, and lime juice. Staple foods include rice, rice noodles, vegetables, and herbs. Food served at the volunteer accommodation during the weekdays are typically hill tribe and Thai style meals; however, Western style food is also served occasionally.
During the weekends, food is not provided and volunteers purchase food at local shops and cook for themselves, or eat in town. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know when you apply for the program so we can make arrangements for you.
Volunteer accommodation
Volunteer accommodation
Accommodation dining area
Accommodation dining area
Accommodation kitchen area
Accommodation kitchen area
Accommodation library
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bedroom
Typical volunteer bathroom
Typical breakfast fruit
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical volunteer breakfast
Typical breakfast fruit
Typical volunteer lunch
Typical volunteer lunch
Typical volunteer lunch
Typical volunteer lunch
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical volunteer dinner
Typical homestay meal
Typical homestay meal
Typical homestay meal
Pricing
Secure your place for just US$299 (approximately £251), pay your Program Fee later.
Spots are limited. For a Registration Fee of just US$299 (approximately £251) you secure your spot and unlock all our preparation and training tools.
You don't need to worry about paying your Program Fee until you get closer to your start date.
Duration |
Program FeeDue 30 days before you start, or within 48 hours if you register inside of 30 days. Covers the cost of hosting you.
|
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | $535 Equivalent to $38/day |
| 3 weeks | $635 Equivalent to $30/day |
| 4 weeks | $765 Equivalent to $27/day |
| 5 weeks | $885 Equivalent to $25/day |
| 6 weeks | $995 Equivalent to $24/day |
| 8 weeks | $1,225 Equivalent to $22/day |
| 10 weeks | $1,485 Equivalent to $21/day |
| 12 weeks | $1,745 Equivalent to $21/day |
- All programs attract a Registration Fee of US$299 (approximately £251) in addition to the Program Fee. This covers all pre-departure support services.
- A 5% international banking fee is added at point of payment.
- Recommended spending money: Volunteers in Thailand generally find US$30-50 per week to be sufficient for expenses.
- Some meals - please see the 'Meals' section of the project page to understand what meals are included
- Airport pick-up
- Return to the airport or bus terminal when your program finishes, if you are departing between 1PM and 4PM
- Return to the bus terminal when your program finishes, if you are departing after 4PM
- Transport to and from your accommodation and volunteer placement each day
- Accommodation
- 24/7 in-country support
- In-country program orientation
- Pre-departure support from your Program Manager
- Personalised preparation tools, guides and check lists
- Access to IVHQ’s preferred insurance and flights partners
- Certificate of International Volunteer Service
Learn more about what's included in your IVHQ Registration Fee and Program Fee.
- Some meals - please see the 'Meals' section of the project page to understand what meals are excluded
- Return to the airport when your program finishes, if you are departing prior to 1PM
- Flights
- Visa (if required), travel insurance (mandatory), vaccinations, criminal background check.
- Personal spending money for snacks, laundry, public transportation, drinks and leisure activities during your free time.
Check what's required to visit Thailand
Safety and support
Safety and support
IVHQ follows best practice and industry-leading health and safety procedures, which are regularly reviewed and optimized as part of the B Corporation recertification.
- All volunteers encouraged to complete our interactive pre-departure training.
- All local teams trained on best practice volunteer management & First Aid.
- All IVHQ programs are required to adhere to IVHQ's Risk Management Policy.
- All volunteers have access to 24/7 in-country support from our local team.
Essential country information
Essential country information
| Capital | Bangkok |
| Population | 69 million |
| Languages | Thai |
| Currency | Thai Baht (THB) |
| Time zone | UTC+07:00 |
Weather and climate: The climate in Thailand varies between the north and south regions, however, the temperature is relatively hot year-round throughout the country. The southern coastal region is characterised by a monsoon climate, which brings heavy rainfall from April to October in the South West and from September to December in the South East. In central and northern inland parts of Thailand, the climate is tropical with the rainy season lasting from May to November, bringing hot and humid weather. During the dry season, temperatures are cool from November to February and are hot from March to May. In Chiang Rai, the hottest average temperature is 36°C (96.8°F) in April and the coolest average temperature is 15°C (59°F) in December. Please see Weather Spark for more details on the climate and weather forecast.
Apply to check if you're eligible!
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