Zanzibar - Teaching Assistant

Stone Town is the capital of Zanzibar and about 20 minutes by car away from the volunteer house. It has a labyrinth of chaotic alleyways interposed between towering limestone houses with ornately carved arched hardwood doors with brass finishings and terracotta roofs. Stone Town is a melting pot of cultures and one of the last remaining ancient towns in Africa. It offers a rare cultural and historical insight into a former era of trade and exploration. As a primary trading post on the spice, silk, and slave trade routes for over a millennium, Stone Town has been a unique meeting place, blending African, Indian, Arabian, and European cultures. It is one of the few remaining ancient towns in Africa. Not only is this city visually beautiful, with old colonial buildings and exquisitely carved Zanzibari doorways, but your senses will be overwhelmed with the scent of the sea and spice and the calls to prayer echoing from the minarets. For history buffs and culture addicts, Stone Town offers plenty of activities for 2-4 days of exploration. Swahili is a local language used by people and is spoken extensively in Zanzibar. English is also spoken by many people.

- Improve the village children's educational foundation and widen their cultural interactions
- Provide you with a teaching assistant experience, an invaluable life skill!
- Assist the teaching staff with extra hands and efforts

On the Monday of your first week at this location, you will join our orientation day, to familiarize you with the surroundings as well as local culture. Your program will continue as usual from Tuesday onward throughout the rest of the week.

Schedule
- Introduction meeting, House rules, Setting Expectations, Health and Safety Advice and handling of documents.
- Stonetown City Orientation
- Spoken Orientation
- Lunch
- Swahili Language lesson

Your week could look like this:

Monday
08:00 - 08:30 Joint Meeting - Weekly Schedule Overview All Participants
09:00 - 12:30 Orientation, Do's and Don'ts, Paperwork, Culture Lesson - New Arrivals Only
10:00 - 12:30 Core Program Activities - Old Participants Only
13:00 Lunch
13:30 - 18:30 Swahili Lesson, Pre-Teaching Plan, Stone Town Tour - New Arrivals Only
18:30 - 21:00 Inuka Teaching Program

Tuesday
08:00 - 08:30 Depart to the programs - All Participants
09:15 - 12:00 Teaching Program Sessions - All Participants
Rest & Preparation for Evening
Program Rest & Preparation for Evening Program
18:30 - 21:00 Inuka Teaching Program

Wednesday
08:00 - 08:30 Depart to the programs - All Participants
09:15 - 12:00 Teaching Program Sessions - All Participants
14:00 - 18:00 A trip to one of Zanzibar's stunning beaches:

North Beach - Experience pristine white sands and turquoise waters.
East Coast (Paje) - A vibrant coastal town known for its lively atmosphere.
Fumba Beach - A serene and picturesque beach escape.

Thursday
08:00 - 08:30 Depart to the programs - All Participants
09:15 - 12:00 Teaching Sessions - All Participants

Cultural Experience & Core Activities
Each Thursday, one core activity will be announced by the local team. Options include:
Afro-Dance Class - Feel the rhythm and energy of African dance.
Dufu Drum Dancing - Learn the art of traditional drumming and singing.
BBQ Night - An evening of delicious grilled food, music, and a farewell session for departures

Friday
08:00 - 08:30 Depart to the programs - All Participants
09:15 - 12:00 Teaching Sessions - All Participants
Free Time. Participants can explore or relax.

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

An evening teaching session will take place on Monday and Tuesday at a local Community Center. This program runs from 19:00 to 21:00, where you will be teaching students of different ages (from 4 - 20 years old). You will be divided into groups where you will teach lessons prepared by you along with the local team.

This program can also include a Culture Week which is highly recommended but not mandatory - just inform your travel advisor if you wish to include it. Get to know Zanzibar! Explore the rich culture, the complex history, and meet amazing people who call this fantastic place home.

Immerse yourself in the rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes of Zanzibar through this action-packed adventure. Walk through the winding alleys of Stone Town, discovering its unique architecture and bustling markets. Delve into the secrets of Zanzibar's spice trade, taste exotic flavors, and enjoy a hands-on cooking experience with local chefs.

Venture to Prison Island to meet the giant Aldabra tortoises and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Spend a day in Makunduchi Village, cycling through scenic paths, learning local crafts, and engaging in age-old traditions. Wrap up your experience with a full-day beach retreat, soaking up the sun and enjoying the turquoise waters of Zanzibar's pristine coastline.

This program offers a truly immersive and unforgettable journey through the heart of Zanzibar.

Aims & Objectives
Help you learn helpful phrases in the local language
Broaden your knowledge of the local customs, history and culture
Enjoy local sights and activities
Provide a full induction, preparing you for a longer stay

Monday
Morning:
Orientation & Introduction - Settle in, meet fellow travelers, and get familiar with your surroundings.
Do's & Don'ts - Essential cultural insights and etiquette to help you blend in.
Paperwork & Culture Lesson - A deeper look into local traditions and daily life.

Afternoon:
Swahili Basics - Learn key phrases to connect with locals.
Stone Town Exploration - Wander through Zanzibar's historic heart, famous for its winding alleys, ornate doors, and lively markets.

Evening:
Sunset Views - Enjoy breathtaking golden hues over the Indian Ocean.
Forodhani Night Market - Dive into Zanzibar's famous street food scene and mingle with locals.

Tuesday
Morning:
Prison Island & Bawe Island Tour -
Meet the giant Aldabra tortoises on Prison Island.
Snorkel in crystal-clear waters around Bawe Island.
Enjoy a packed lunch with fresh fruits and snacks while taking in the ocean views.

Wednesday
Morning:
Spice Farm Visit - Discover the island's famous spices and their culinary & medicinal uses.

Afternoon:
Spice Tour & Cooking Class - Get hands-on experience preparing traditional dishes using fresh, local spices.

Thursday
Morning:
Local Transport to Makunduchi - A scenic 1.5-hour journey to an authentic Zanzibari village.

Afternoon:
Village Cycling Tour - Explore the rural beauty of Zanzibar on two wheels.
Khanga Demonstration - Learn the cultural significance of these vibrant fabrics.
Traditional Village Lunch - Enjoy a home-cooked meal featuring fresh fruit and a local main dish.

Hands-On Experiences:
Coconut Rope & Roof Making - See local craftsmanship in action.
Visit a Traditional Healer (Witch Doctor) - Gain insight into ancient healing traditions.

Friday
Full-Day Beach Escape - Relax on Zanzibar's famous white sands and swim in turquoise waters.
Packed Lunch - Enjoy a carefree beach day.

Please note the dates for the school holidays are subject to change due to local conditions.

Ramadan
Ramadan is observed throughout Zanzibar. During this period, it is important to be mindful of certain customs and practices out of respect for the local community. The volunteer programs and activities are affected as they work with local community schools. The dates for Ramadan are not the same each year.

Teaching and Kindergarten programs 2026
The dates for the school holidays are subject to change due to local conditions and will be announced at the beginning of 2026 but they are most likely all of June, September, November and December until mid-January 2027

School Holidays 2025
23 June to 07 July - School Holidays, 22 September to 28 September - School Holidays, 21 November to 12 December - School Holidays and 01 December 2025 to 18 January 2026 - School Holidays

School Holidays 2026
18 February - 01 April - Eid and 03 - 07 April - Easter
Additional dates not yet announced

School Examination Dates 2025
It will not be possible to start on teaching and kindergarten programs on the following dates:
11-20 September and 09-21 November

School Examination Dates
TBA

Please note that school holidays are determined by the Zanzibar Government and the Department of Education, and these dates are subject to change without prior notice. While we will make every effort to keep you informed of any adjustments, it is important to understand that holiday scheduling is beyond our control. During the holidays, participants are welcome to join our construction and renovation projects, which continue to make a meaningful impact on the community.

Public Holidays 2025
07 July, 08 August, 04-05 September, 14 October, 09 & 25-26 December

Public Holidays 2026
01 & 12 January, 20-21 March, 03, 06-07 & 27 April, 01 & 27 May, 07 July, 26 August, 14 October, 09 & 25-26 December

During Exam period 11-20th September 2025
Since schools are still functioning during the day for exams, our participants can continue to support the schools in the mornings where possible, with tasks such as:
- ⁠Supervising the kids during exam sessions (helping them settle, avoid noise, and stay organized)
- ⁠Preparing and assisting with breakfast at the school
- ⁠Setting up exam desks and general school support

Then, in the late evening, kids will attend the INUKA teaching project, providing a more structured and interactive setting outside school hours. This setup allows volunteers to remain engaged and continue making an impact, while still respecting the school schedule and local customs during the exam period. The evening program is from 18.00-21.00, including 30 mins travel time each way to INUKA.

Holiday Camp
During school holidays in September and December 2025 and Easter 03-07th April 2026, Teaching and Kindergarten volunteers will join the Holiday Camp
The main focus areas of the holiday camp are:
- Mathematics
- English
- Science
- Environmental Education
- Healthcare & Hygiene

Each subject includes structured weekly lessons, with volunteers receiving a daily schedule and a weekly plan posted at the accommodation to support preparation and coordination.

In addition to academic content, the program includes:
- Practical Environmental Activities (e.g. school and community cleaning, health education)
- Hygiene Workshop (teaching kids personal hygiene practices such as hand washing, brushing teeth, etc.)
- Sports Days (games, matches, fun trips)
- Group Beach Cleaning Tour

We kindly request volunteers to bring hygiene materials (toothbrushes, toothpaste), posters, and coloring materials to support the Hygiene Workshop and enhance learning at the school.

Program Time: up to 8 hours per day, depending on activities. Most teaching takes place in the morning; cultural and community events are held in the evening.
Location: One of the local schools or a nearby community center in Zanzibar.
Number of Children: Approximately 50
Age Range: 5 to 14 years old

During exam period Monday, 16 February - 13 March 2026
The program switches to helping with exams preparation at school in the morning and INUKA every evening, the exact dates for the exams starting and ending are not100% confirmed but the most likely start date is February 16th. During exam periods, volunteers help with exam preparation in the morning and help at the INUKA teaching program in the evening.

During the week before Eid there is a special Holiday Camp from 16-20March 2026
The main focus areas of the holiday camp are:
- Mathematics
- English
- Science
- Environmental Education
- Healthcare & Hygiene

Each subject includes structured weekly lessons, with volunteers receiving a daily schedule and a weekly plan posted at the accommodation to support preparation and coordination.

In addition to academic content, the program from 16-20 March includes:
- Practical Environmental Activities (e.g. school and community cleaning, health education)
- Hygiene Workshop (teaching kids personal hygiene practices such as hand washing, brushing teeth, etc.)
- Sports Days (games, matches, fun trips)
- Ramadan Charity Event
- Group Beach Cleaning Tour
- Evening Iftar Dinners with the children

We kindly request volunteers to bring hygiene materials (toothbrushes, toothpaste), posters, and coloring materials to support the Hygiene Workshop and enhance learning at the school.

Cultural Program (March 20-27) Eid Week
Due to government regulations restricting formal teaching during the final days of Ramadan, a special cultural exchange program will run from March 20 to March 27. During this period, no lessons will be held with children.

Cultural Program Schedule
March 20 (Friday): Sports Day & Eid Celebration with Kids
March 23 (Monday): Traditional Cooking Class (Zanzibari Cuisine) + Volunteer Cultural Exchange
March 24 (Tuesday): Dufu Drum Workshop & Henna Painting + Volunteer Cultural Exchange
March 25 (Wednesday): Swahili Language & Cultural Etiquette Session + Volunteer Cultural Exchange
March 26 (Thursday): Visit to Local Artisan Market & Craft Learning + Volunteer Cultural Exchange
March 27 (Friday): Spice Farm Plantation Visit + Volunteer Cultural Exchange

Minimum age of 18
Basic level of competency in English
Police Clearance Certificate on sign-up
Passport copy required on arrival
Travel & medical insurance (Older participants are required to have a medical clearance)
Have completed the following vaccines: Typhoid, Tetanus, Rabies, Malaria, Hepatitis A, and Diphtheria
Visitor visa

Apply Online Before Arrival in Tanzania
The visitor visa costs 50 USD and can be applied for online via https://visa.immigration.go.tz/

Volunteers need to be flexible and keep an open mind concerning their placements as situations can arise beyond our control which could require you to be placed at a different project than the one you have initially chosen. We will of course always do our utmost to fulfill your initial wishes but do remember that where you are going is quite different from where you are coming and as such one should be prepared for things not always going according to plan.

Volunteering and intercultural travel share a common trait: the more you put into it, the more you get out of it. This program is designed for proactive individuals and groups that are prepared to adapt to the local environment and its current needs. Naturally, the scheduling and activities of our program are subject to change. Alterations in activities are mainly due to changes in local conditions, which we believe is part of what makes overseas programs the interesting adventure and incredible learning experience that they are.

Our projects range from 1 week up to approx. 30 weeks. Projects have a specified minimum stay, then it's up to you how long you can commit. In our experience the longer you stay the more you will gain, as your understanding of the project broadens and you take on more responsibilities. Every volunteer will be given a certificate of appreciation at the end of their stay as a symbol of volunteering stay.