Teaching Project

This English-medium high school was founded in 1959 as a co-educational Afrikaans high school in the leafy suburb of Newlands. The school started with 37 pupils. Over the years, pupil numbers have increased and further classrooms were added. In 1991 it became the first public Afrikaans high school in South Africa with a broad admissions policy. Dual-medium instruction was phased in from 1994. Since 2011 all tuition has been in English only. A maximum enrolment of 1050 was achieved in 2023, turning the school into a thriving educational institution.

Overview:

Location Cape Town, South Africa
Duration From 2 weeks
Dates All year round (except during school holidays)
Requirements
  • You must have an Intermediate level (B1/B1+) of English
  • Special skills: You need to be energetic and playful and ready to participate actively.
  • Special skills: You need to be physically fit.
Minimum Age: 18
Your impact
Documents required Enrolment form, curriculum vitae, letter of motivation, passport copy, proof of medical insurance, police clearance certificate, indemnity form
Day of arrival Sunday
Day of departure Saturday

Highlights

  • Interact with lovely children from different backgrounds in a structured, welcoming environment.
  • Get involved in almost all school activities.
  • The Teaching Project's slogan "Words can change worlds” is used to encourage children, parents and communities to secure a better education for children.
  • Help to manage the school’s social media.
  • Get involved in the planning of special events (e.g. sports tournaments, school dance and music activities etc.) throughout the week.
  • Help with the various sports activities offered in the afternoon.
  • Experience amazing tours and adventures in and around Cape Town.
  • Get personal support from the volunteer coordinator.
  • Make new friends from all over the world.
  • Half-day option: learn English in the morning; volunteer in the afternoon.

Project information

All of the school’s classrooms are equipped with state-of-the-art interactive whiteboards. There are two fully equipped computer laboratories, four science and life science laboratories, and the 180-seater auditorium. The school also has a well-resourced library. 
The school’s core values and mission are to

  • foster an attitude of respect.
  • work in an attractive environment.
  • provide an education that will develop the potential of each learner.
  • nurture each learner’s individuality.
  • strive to provide professional tuition at the highest level.
  • maintain a balance between academic, cultural, and sporting activities.
  • believe in promoting the values of tolerance and respect for all forms of faith and culture.
  • believe in challenging problems and solving them with creativity and innovation.

Sports form a vital part of the school’s culture, fostering teamwork, discipline, and community spirit across diverse backgrounds. Through the comprehensive sports programme, students develop not just physically but socially, building connections that transcend cultural differences.

The school has two sports fields, tennis courts, netball courts, a water polo pool and even a clubhouse. Sports offered depend on the season and include Softball, Swimming, Athletics, Basketball, Cricket, (Touch) Rugby, Soccer, Netball and Girl's Hockey among others.  

Looking forward, the Teaching Project aims to create graduates who are critical thinkers, compassionate leaders, and active citizens. It strives to build an inclusive community where every student finds their voice and develops their unique talents.
The school wishes to establish a centre of excellence that bridges socioeconomic divides while preparing students to thrive in an interconnected global society.

Your role

Full-day volunteers will participate in the morning and afternoon programmes.
Working hours are typically from 08:00 – 16:30.

Afternoon-only volunteers (who take part in our English language course in the morning) will participate in the various afternoon programmes. Sessions in the afternoons run between approximately 13:00 – 16:30.
Evenings and weekends are then usually free.

Your tasks and responsibilities include a wide range of activities throughout a school week. As a volunteer, you will get involved in almost every activity the school offers.
Here is an overview of possible tasks included in the school’s weekly routine:

  • Assisting with student arrival and morning supervision
  • Helping teachers prepare classroom materials and set up activities
  • Assisting with art, music, or physical education classes
  • Providing administrative support (copying, filing, notice boards)
  • Chaperoning field trips when needed
  • Assisting with special events or school functions
  • Supporting school clubs or extracurricular activities
  • Getting involved in the social media management of the school
  • Helping students with technology in the computer lab and providing homework assistance

It is important to note that this description serves as an example only. The daily tasks and activities depend on the volunteer and the work that needs to be done. The final job description can therefore vary substantially from the above depending on the volunteers’ interests and abilities.

Accommodation

You will live at the Volunteer House. It is a private house in an upmarket residential area with single beds and twin bedrooms. Volunteers are accommodated in twin bedrooms but may upgrade to single rooms upon request. There are 4 bathrooms to share, a communal kitchen, a dining room, a lounge with TV and DVD player and a beautiful garden with a swimming pool.
Bedding is provided. Towels are not provided.
There is a washing machine at the residence for you to use. It works with tokens which can be purchased for R40 per load.
Please note: The Volunteer House is currently closed for renovations and will be available again from early 2026.

In the meanwhile, volunteers can book the Newlands Residence at no extra cost. This residence is located in the heart of Claremont and offers single rooms with an en-suite bathroom. Bedding and towels are provided and replaced weekly. A communal kitchen, a wellness area with a mini gym, a pool and communal areas guarantee a welcoming atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to meet fellow volunteers. Wi-Fi is included.
A laundry room with washing machines and tumble dryers is available at the cost of R43 per load. 

Upgrades to a Homestay or any other accommodation option provided by Good Hope Studies are always possible but come at an additional cost. 

Meals
Self-catering except if you choose the Homestay option. The main shopping areas as well as restaurants, pubs, etc. are within walking distance of your accommodation.