Teaching English to Buddhist Monks

Explore one of the earliest forms of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and help young monks learn English!

In Galle, the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka, the town contains many beautiful attractions for visitors as well as many monasteries. In the monasteries, young monks give their life to learning the scriptures and practice of meditation. Lately, the monks have also felt the need to learn English. As a volunteer, you will teach English to young monks aged between 6 and 14. The monks generally don't learn English as most of the time they study in the local language or the language the Buddhist scriptures are written in. However, as Buddhism has become increasing popular in the West and the interactions between monks and people from Western countries have increased, it has become imperative for the monks to learn English to communicate.

Join the project and take this wonderful opportunity to explore Sri Lanka and Buddhism while also teaching English to young monks.

Your Responsibility as a Volunteer:

As a volunteer in Teaching English to Monks in Sri Lanka project you will teach in a Pirivena, a local word for monastic college. The Pirivena have also been the centers of secondary and higher education in ancient times for lay people as well. You will teach English to monks who are just starting in their path towards learning Buddhism. While teaching, volunteers will converse with the monks to develop their conversational skills. You can share your experience from back home and ask them of their family and their present environment. During the volunteer program, you must at all time talk respectfully to the monks and respect the prevailing culture of the monastery.

Skills required

You must be willing to teach and live with the monks and respect Buddhism to work in the project. You will also have to be fluent English speakers but not necessarily native English speakers. No previous teaching experience is required. If you come with an open mind and willingness to adapt to newer and stranger world, you'll have a better time in the project. Volunteers also dress conservatively inside the monastery. No short sleeves or skirts are allowed.

Project Location

Our projects are located in a beautiful town of Galle, about 5 hours drive south of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. There are many beautiful villages near Galle that you can explore and get a glimpse of Sri Lankan culture and way of life. Kalutara Temple in Galle is one of the must visit places. Other places to visit in Galle include Peace Pagoda, Galle Fort and one of the turtle hatcheries in the coastal area. There are many good places to go out to eat and drink in Galle.

Volunteers can also travel to other historical cities like ancient capital cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, where you can explore ruins built by the ancient Kings. If you hike to "SIGIRIYA ROCK" you can witness spectacular scenery from the top. North East of Sri Lanka contains many famous beaches like Arugam Bay beach as well as monasteries, temples, parks, churches, museums and art galleries.