Projects Abroad - COSTA RICA Project Information for Teaching in Costa Rica

Education in Costa Rica

In 1869 Costa Rica became one of the first countries to made education free and obligatory. This was thanks to its many rulers who had been educators and therefore were passionate about the importance of education. And it was made possible by the available funding which came from the lucrative coffee industry. With more than 28% of the national budget being spent on primary and secondary education since the 70's, Costa Rica now has a 96% literacy rate, one of the highest in Central America.

In a country which is increasingly seeing the effects of globalisation, and with an ever expanding tourist industry, the importance of being able to speak English is evident. And although Costa Rica boasts a higher number of teachers than policemen, English teachers are still in high demand.

English Teaching in Costa Rica

Children in Costa Rica are required to learn English. Unfortunately, most English teachers have not had the opportunity to spend a lot of time in an English speaking country and therefore do not always know the correct pronunciations of words or how English works in practice. At worst, some schools cannot afford to employ English teachers. Teaching is by far one of the most useful things that you can do as a volunteer because you are providing a service that the majority of Ticos - as Costa Ricans are known - cannot. A native or near fluent English speaker is of great use.

Our teaching placements are situated in the city of Liberia in the North-West of Costa Rica and offer you the chance to help provide a head-start in English for pupils in the local schools. This is an opportunity for you to be as creative as possible, to help make the learning of English as fun and enjoyable as possible. Whether you are assisting a teacher, have a class of your own or are taking extra curricular classes, your help is greatly needed. Working at the schools is enjoyable and rewarding. Through the use of authentic materials, games and songs you can engage the students and make them eager to learn!

Our Voluntary Teaching Placements in Costa Rica

Depending on the school you are placed in you could be teaching children as young as 4 or as old as 17. The size of the classes ranges from 10 to 45. Although you will be given your own unique timetable, work generally beings at around 8.30am - although some schools start earlier - and runs until about mid-afternoon.

Sometimes you will be supporting a teacher in a full-sized class, at other times you may take some of the students with you to give them more individual attention or you may teach your own class independently or with a fellow volunteer.

It is always worth talking to your supervisors about any ideas you may have for the students. If you have a passion for sports, drama or music there may well be the opportunity for you to organise some extra-curricular activities.

Seeing the results of your efforts is a thoroughly rewarding experience!