Teach English in Rural Thailand

This opportunity offers volunteers the chance to experience traditional Thai life while supporting English education in rural schools across Phayao Province, northern Thailand. The programme works with local public schools that need extra help teaching English, placing international volunteers alongside Thai teachers to support students and their families.

Volunteer Now

Volunteers will become part of a local community, gaining insight into Thai culture, language, history and cuisine. Surrounded by green countryside, rice fields and fruit farms, the experience combines community engagement with the opportunity to discover the region’s traditions and way of life.

Tasks & Roles

Volunteers will help teach basic English to students from kindergarten to Year 9, focusing on everyday vocabulary, conversational skills and spoken communication. They will work directly with students in the classroom, alongside a local English teacher who can offer guidance and support when needed.

Fluent English speakers are welcome, and previous teaching experience is helpful but not essential. Enthusiasm, patience and a willingness to engage with children are the most important qualities. Knowledge of Thai is not required, making this an accessible opportunity for those keen to gain teaching experience while contributing to local education.

Living & Getting There

Volunteers will stay in accommodation on the school campus or within the programme’s host facilities. Depending on the placement, they will have either a private or shared bedroom, with a fan or air conditioning. Bathrooms may also be private or shared and include a hot shower.

Accommodation and meals are provided in exchange for volunteers’ help. The host community prepares a variety of Thai dishes, offering an opportunity to sample local cuisine and experience regional food traditions. However, the programme cannot cater for special dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan or other restricted diets.

The nearest airport is Chiang Rai International Airport (CEI). As Phayao Province does not have its own airport, volunteers can fly into Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai and continue their journey by bus. The journey from Chiang Rai takes approximately one hour and 50 minutes, while travel from Chiang Mai takes around three hours and 30 minutes. Travelling from Bangkok by bus takes approximately 11 hours.

What else

Volunteers are expected to respect Thai customs and local cultural values throughout their stay. Modest dress is encouraged, and public displays of affection should be avoided. Smoking and alcohol consumption are strictly prohibited in the accommodation.

Outside their teaching commitments, volunteers can discover local historical sites, visit nearby attractions and experience everyday village life. The host community is happy to help them explore the surrounding area and make the most of their time in Phayao Province.

This opportunity is well suited to fluent English speakers who enjoy working with children, are open to new cultural experiences and would like to contribute to education while discovering the quieter side of northern Thailand.