Location:

Kaluga, Russia

Program Type:

Volunteer Abroad

Degree Level:

Undergraduate

Work Types:

Children, Education

Duration:

1-3 months

Program Overview

Program Description:

Volunteer in Kitezh Children's Community in Kaluga Region, Russia, a rural village community of foster parents and teachers who take children from orphanages and raise and educate them along with their own children. Kitezh is an entirely child-centred, therapeutic education community. On 100 hectares of land it has a number of wooden houses, a school, a church and a farm, with natural woodlands and a lake nearby. Volunteers live with a family, teach English to children and take part in the daily working and social life of the community: gardening, cooking, building, playing games, art & crafts, music, drama, sport with the kids. A wonderful opportunity to experience real Russian culture and make a difference to the lives of children who had a bad start in life. Excellent Russian Language practice although a knowledge of Russian is not essential. 

A typical volunteer: 

Most volunteers are 18-30, some older, from many different countries, looking for a worthwhile experience abroad. All like to be with children, some have English teaching experience, some speak Russian or have an interest in learning Russian. They are flexible, willing to adapt to a new culture, interested in people and community living. 

Requirements:

No special skills required though any of the following would be useful: some knowledge of Russian, TEFL or experience in teaching English, experience working with children (sports, arts and crafts, music, drama), building, cooking and gardening. An interest in children and willingness to adapt to a different culture and to participate fully in the life of the community are essential. Police check in country of residence required. 

Cost:

3 months £1450 includes pre-departure preparation, in-country support, visa support, accommodation and meals, internal transfers, airport meeting.

Setting Description:

Kitezh Children's Community is a rural village community in Kaluga Region, Russia. On 100 hectares of land it has a number of wooden houses, a school, a church and a farm, with natural woodlands and a lake nearby.

Cost:

Cost: 3 months £1450 includes pre-departure preparation, in-country support, visa support, accommodation and meals, internal transfers, airport meeting.