Teach English in Koh Samui – Volunteer in Thailand

Make a meaningful impact by teaching English and other subjects to local students in Koh Samui, Thailand. Volunteers will work in primary and secondary schools, helping children improve their language skills and expand their opportunities. With a focus on interactive and engaging learning, volunteers can introduce creative teaching methods through songs, games, and cultural exchange. During free time, enjoy the breathtaking beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant local markets that make Koh Samui a spectacular destination.

Program Highlights

Teach English, math, science, and sports to students aged 6-18.
Gain hands-on experience in Thai schools and contribute to students’ learning.
Take part in fun and creative teaching activities, including songs and games.
Work alongside local teachers and support lesson planning.
Stay in a nice accommodation center with volunteers from around the world.
Enjoy Koh Samui’s stunning beaches.
Explore local attractions like waterfalls, temples, and national parks during weekends.

Your Schedule at a Glance

Sunday (Arrival Day): Volunteers arrive at Koh Samui, airport pickup, settle into their accommodations, and meet fellow participants.

Monday (Orientation & Training): Learn about Thai culture, language, and teaching expectations. Get an introduction to your school placement and meet the local team.

Tuesday – Friday (Teaching Days):

Breakfast at the center
Prepare lesson plans and materials
Teach 2-3 classes (morning or afternoon shifts, depending on the school schedule)
Lunch and free time
Lesson planning and preparation for the next day
Dinner at the center

Weekends: Free time to explore Koh Samui, relax on the beach, or take part in local excursions. Departures are usually on a Saturday.

Location of the Project: Koh Samui, Thailand – a tropical island known for its beaches, coral reefs, and cultural heritage.

Project length: Minimum 1 week – Maximum 12 weeks

Arrival Airport: Koh Samui Airport (USM) or Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) with a connecting domestic flight.

Volunteer Work: Teaching English and other subjects in local primary and secondary schools.

Age: Minimum 18 years (17 with parental consent).

Number of Volunteers: Up to 20 international volunteers.

What’s Included

Accommodations: comfortable shared dormitory-style rooms with single-gender arrangements; private room upgrades available.

Food: Three meals per day on weekdays, two meals on weekends, primarily Thai-style, with vegetarian options.

Airport Transfers: Airport pickup from Koh Samui Airport is included on arrival day

Orientation: Includes Thai language lessons, cultural training, and an introduction to teaching practices.

Support: Comprehensive and professional pre-departure travel guidance, 24/7 GoEco emergency hotline, experienced local field team.

What’s not Included

Flights and visas (if required)
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Lunch during the weekends
Airport drop-off (extra fee)
Additional excursions or activities

Location

This teaching program takes place on the beautiful and idyllic island of Koh Samui in the heart of the Thai Gulf. Famous for its white-sand beaches, coconut groves, and lush tropical landscapes, the island offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. Volunteers will be based in Lipa Noi with easy access to local shops, restaurants, and stunning coastal views. Besides its natural beauty, Koh Samui boasts cultural sites such as the Big Buddha Temple, Wat Plai Laem, and traditional night markets. With warm hospitality and a laid-back atmosphere, it is an ideal destination for those looking to combine meaningful volunteer work with travel experiences.

Volunteer Work

Program Overview
This program provides volunteers with the opportunity to support local schools by assisting teachers in delivering engaging and interactive English lessons. Many students have limited exposure to fluent English speakers, and volunteers play a crucial role in helping them improve their skills.

Volunteer Responsibilities
Volunteers will primarily teach English, but they may also assist in other subjects such as math, science, or sports. Schools are flexible and open to incorporating creative and fun teaching techniques. Volunteers will also support local teachers in lesson planning and classroom activities.

Volunteer Tasks

Teach English in primary and secondary schools.
Assist in math, science, and sports lessons.
Plan and organize classroom activities.
Engage students through interactive learning methods.
Take part in English camps and special classes during the school holidays.
Work with local teachers to ensure continuity in lesson plans.

A Typical Day

Breakfast at the center.
Prepare teaching materials and lesson plans.
Travel to school for morning or afternoon teaching sessions.
Lunch break.
Afternoon lessons, classroom activities, or lesson planning.
Return to the center, free time, or optional local activities such as visiting the night market or relaxing at the beach.
Dinner and socializing with other volunteers.
This schedule may vary depending on school requirements, weather, and unforeseen circumstance

School Holidays
School holidays run from early October to mid-November and March to May. During these periods, volunteers can take part in special classes and English camps, providing additional opportunities to engage with the local community. Volunteers working in child development centers can introduce children to basic educational concepts through creative activities, like songs, dances, and games.

On public holidays, such as the Songkran Festival, the program is closed, allowing volunteers to join local celebrations. A list of holidays will be provided upon registration to help with planning.

Living Arrangements

Internet icon Internet: Wi-Fi is available in public areas.

Laundry icon Laundry: You can use the local laundry services, which are fairly inexpensive, or purchase detergent and wash by hand.

Accommodations icon Accommodations: As a volunteer, you will stay at our volunteer center with comfortable, single-gender dormitories for 4-8 people with air conditioning and Western-style bathrooms. Private rooms are available for an additional fee. The accommodation complex includes a pool and communal spaces. The center is around 5km from beautiful Lipa Noi Beach and close to local shops, laundry and daily necessities.

Food icon Food: All the meals served inside the accommodation are homestyle, vegetarian-friendly, and typically Thai, including plenty of rice or noodle dishes with vegetables. Occasionally, some meat will be provided, along with seasonal fruits for dessert. Volunteers receive three meals on weekdays and two meals on weekends.

Requirements

Minimum age: 18 (16-17 with parental consent).
Intermediate level of English proficiency.
Police clearance.
Enthusiasm for working with children.
Respect for Thai culture, including appropriate dress codes.
Medical clearance for participants over 65.
Recommended: Bring teaching materials such as books, flashcards, or small cultural items.
Immunizations (consult your doctor)

Travel Highlights

Before starting your volunteer placement, we highly recommend joining our exciting Koh Samui Culture Week. This week-long introduction to Thai culture includes learning basic Thai phrases, visiting local markets, taking part in Buddhist ceremonies, exploring natural wonders like waterfalls and beaches, and even taking part in a traditional Thai cooking class. It is a great way to familiarize yourself with the country’s customs and daily life while making new connections with fellow volunteers. Includes accommodation from Sunday to Saturday noon, three meals on weekdays and two on weekends, entry fees for cultural sites and excursions, and 24/7 local team support. See Additional Options below.

Places to visit in Koh Samui during your free time: