Are you a fluent English speaker looking for volunteer or internship opportunities for learning German and teaching English? Are you also endowed with a spirit of adventure, searching for volunteer opportunities? If so, then keep reading! If you would be interested in volunteering with refugees and migrants while gaining experience abroad with international cultures, and making a real change in the world, then the Volunteer in Germany in Halle (Saale), Germany is the place for you!
Opened in 2018, the Volunteer in Germany operates as a language school and a community development center for local refugees and migrants from all around the world, at all times of the year. If you are looking for a Summer internship volunteering with refugees, or volunteer opportunities over Winter break, during your gap year, after graduation, or at any time in your life, then we have programs for you. The program provides important services and resources for the migrants and refugees of Halle (Saale), Germany which prepares them for their professional and personal lives.
For example, serving the community with German, English, and Arabic language programs for little to no charge, as well as connecting people with new contacts, fostering relationships at the community level, and providing an opportunity for exposure to intercultural and international lifestyles. Refugees and migrants come to the Volunteer in Germany organization to improve their lives, and as a volunteer English teacher, you can be part of that process, helping to make a real difference in the lives of others.
A Language Trading Opportunity
In addition to teaching, volunteers who sign up for our program of learning German and teaching English will also enroll in German language courses (3 hours a week). The German classes are personalized to the level and needs of individual volunteers, and the Volunteer in Germany organization provides immersive German lessons as well as lessons in a traditional classroom style. The advent of additional language courses is meant to further immerse volunteers in local Arabic/German culture, allowing them to better communicate with their students, as well as Halle locals.
The Volunteer to Teach English and Learn German language program spans anywhere from 1 to 13 weeks, with volunteers staying in the city of Halle (Saale). Options for housing range from a shared apartment to student living arrangements to staying with local host families. Being housed with a host family provides volunteers with even more opportunities to learn about local culture and further practice their language skills. What better way is there to learn a language than being in-country, speaking every day with natives and other language learners?
Your Impact During the Learning German and Teaching English Program
Volunteers taking part in our short-term volunteer projects in Germany will be responsible for teaching one-to-one conversational English courses to students at the center. On occasion, volunteers may also teach small groups of students (anywhere from 2 – 5) to help foster class unity and mutual learning.
As a volunteer English teacher, you will interact with students face-to-face and help them gain crucial skills for later in life. Students’ ages will range anywhere from 11 – 70 years old, as well as come from a plethora of backgrounds; most students will be migrants or the children of migrants, hailing from various countries that have been subject to difficult times. The majority of the families the Volunteer in Germany serves come from various Arab countries such as Syria, Palestine, Yemen, and Iraq, but the center is not exclusive and accepts refugees and migrants from all around the world, including Ukraine.
Volunteers will not only serve as teachers but also as cultural diplomats, representing their home country to the community in Halle (Saale), as well as play an important role in helping with communal activities meant to increase cross-cultural exchanges. This positive exposure between members of different cultures is how we foster deeper understanding and respect for the many different cultures all around the world.
At the Volunteer in Germany organization, we take quality and equality very seriously and ensure our teachers are equipped with teaching material from their first day in Germany. The Volunteer in Germany organization is a place where refugees, migrants, locals, international travelers, volunteers, and professionals can all share a safe space to engage in learning together. While the center is small in size, it offers an opportunity to make a big difference in the lives of others!
Summer Internships – Volunteer Abroad
While the volunteer program in Germany is available all year, the summer is the most advantageous and exciting time to apply. With a team that comes from all around the world, the Volunteer in Germany is full of students throughout May, June, July, and August, making it the perfect time to volunteer.
The program includes a language course (3 hours of German per week), responsibilities as an English Teacher, housing, logistic help, breakfast 4 days a week, and an immersive experience in our community in Halle. The program can last anywhere between 1-13 weeks, as you decide for yourself and choose the starting and ending dates. If you are looking for a summer opportunity volunteering with refugees, learning German, and teaching English in Europe or Germany, then this is the program for you.
It’s All About The People
When you volunteer to teach English in Germany, it means not only serving a good cause but becoming a member of the community here in Halle (Saale). At the Volunteer in Germany organization, we forge communities and personal ties with every single person who comes through our doors. During a volunteer’s stay, it is common to be invited to family gatherings, workplaces, homes, garden-plot cookouts, and many more events and activities.
To every person with tolerance, a sense of adventure, and a desire to be a part of something so much larger than themselves, this is the perfect opportunity to experience something hard to find in other places in the world, given the unique convergence of international cultures. This irreplaceable part of volunteers’ time in Halle (Saale) is eye-opening and will, undoubtedly, change perspectives. It is these unique factors that make volunteers’ time with our organization unforgettable and life-changing.
A Unique Crossroads Of Community
Volunteers in Halle (Saale) will become vital community members, especially as English teachers. Their role is not just about strictly learning German and teaching English- it is also about personal growth. Often, the students volunteers work with have minimal English language exposure, and as a teacher, witnessing someone’s language progression can be truly an astonishing and meaningful experience.
You could be the catalyst for others’ language acquisition, which could then open the doors for them to countless opportunities that only acquiring a new skill, such as learning a new language, can bring. This process offers immense personal fulfillment, knowing you’re making a tangible difference in someone’s life. Learning a new language is a significant advancement, particularly for those affected by conflicts such as war or strife. These aspects make volunteering in Halle (Saale) a uniquely memorable and impactful experience.
Areas Of Volunteering for Learning German and Teaching English Program Participants
You may be wondering: what specifically would I be doing as a volunteer in the Learning German and Teaching English program? For our short-term internship program as well as our extended volunteer programs, in addition to teaching English, there is a wide array of organizational and community outreach opportunities that volunteers participate in. Furthermore, volunteers are welcomed and encouraged to put forward new ideas about methods of community outreach that relate to their particular field of interest. Some examples of additional community services volunteers can take part in are as follows:
- Aiding young students in their homework and coursework as needed.
- Helping other teachers prepare course materials, as well as designing additional course materials for our organization to utilize.
- Contributing to the resources and materials the program makes use of for lessons.
- Organizing different educational and cultural workshops for the Arabic community here in Halle (Saale). For example, professional writing workshops, CV and resume workshops, as well as art exchange workshops, and more.
- Organizing fun activities for the Arabic community here in Halle (Saale). For example, football/ soccer matches between volunteers and students, poetry slams, music concerts, etc.
- Performing administrative activities for the organization, such as writing reports and articles, creating schedules, and coordinating with the ViG’s director to organize special events, as well as others.
- Summation and research projects including interviews, ethnography, and experience collection for primary source research.
Why Is This An Ideal Opportunity?
Volunteering with the Volunteer in Germany in Halle (Saale) is an ideal opportunity for anyone looking to start teaching English, gain more experience teaching English, interact with diverse cultures, volunteer in a community, and aid refugees as they search to improve their lives. It is also perfect for people looking for internships, volunteering opportunities, or a fulfilling experience abroad.
- Volunteers are not required to have any previous teaching skills or certification (such as CELTA, TESL, TESOL, or others)
- It is an immersive volunteer program, meaning that volunteers will interact closely and personally with Arabic and German communities here in Halle (Saale).
- This volunteer program is available throughout the year, and applications are taken year-round without deadlines.
- A teaching manual, as well as other necessary teaching materials, will be provided by our team.
- Our knowledgeable staff is friendly and will be ready and willing to help volunteers with professional development as needed.
- Classes will either be conducted in one-to-one courses or small groups of 2 – 5.
Who Can Join This Volunteer in Germany Program?
Building a diverse community in the Volunteer in Germany is of the utmost importance; for it is through the center’s diversity that we channel constructive cross-cultural communication, as well as help break down barriers and dispel harmful misconceptions. Therefore, there are practically no restrictions on who may apply to our program. The Volunteer to Teach English and Study German volunteer program is available to a wide audience, including:
- All people between the ages of 18 – 75, as well as all religions and nationalities.
- University and college students; including those taking a gap semester or year, looking for an internship, as well as those looking to complete a semester abroad (University credits offered!)
- Those looking for short internships in Germany.
- Those looking for longer volunteer opportunities with refugees in Germany.
- Those who are interested in teaching, education, foreign languages, intercultural experiences, community building, and community building.
- Unqualified or beginning teachers.
- Qualified teachers with CELTA, TEFL, TESOL, as well as other teaching certificates (though this is NOT required).
- Native English speakers
- Those who are fluent in English, but are not native speakers.
- Those who have an interest in the German language and engage with German and Arabic culture.
- Those who are interested in working with refugees, immigrants, and local Germans.
- Those looking for volunteer teaching abroad experience.
- Those who are looking to make a real difference.
- Anyone with an open mind and a kind heart!
What Are The Requirements For Volunteers?
The Volunteer in Germany in Halle (Saale), Germany accepts a diverse range of volunteers. Almost anyone looking for volunteering opportunities abroad can join. However, to join our Volunteer for Learning German and Teaching English program, applicants will need to meet the following requirements.
What You Need To Volunteer In Germany:
- Be at least 18 years of age (unless granted special permissions by the organization’s director and the parents of the volunteer).
- Have a working, colloquial understanding of the English language and its grammar (even if it’s not perfect!)
- Have a positive, friendly attitude, as well as a willingness to learn about Arabic and German culture.
- Are enthusiastic to meet new people.
- Willing to be part of a host family here in Halle (Saale), Germany.
- Are willing to be their whole selves and join a diverse community.
- Be kind! There is no room for prejudice of any kind at the Volunteer in Germany organization.
What You DO NOT Need To Volunteer in Germany
- Certification to teach English.
- Previous experience teaching English.
- Previous travel experience.
- An ability to speak either Arabic or German.
- An academic degree.
- To be a native speaker of English.
- To be a student (the program is open to all!)
How Is This Program Beneficial To Me?
Participants in the learning German and teaching English program can expect their time with the center and in Halle (Saale) to be as rewarding for them as it is for their students. Not only can you check the box of volunteering abroad with refugees for your internship, but volunteers will gain the following benefits from their time in Germany:
- Practical experience teaching English as a foreign language, planning classes, as well as devising new teaching strategies and lesson plans.
- Gain German language experience through offered weekly courses (3 hours per week or more).
- Take part in community outreach and educational activities as a member, not an outsider!
- Have the chance to meet people from all over the world with a wide range of backgrounds, thoughts, and ideas.
- Make new friends from all around the world, opening possible future connections.
- Meet other people interested in volunteering, foreign language, social work, and teaching,
- To be immersed in Arabic and German culture.
- Explore the beautiful, historic city of Halle (Saale), as well as other nearby German cities.
- Live with a host family (either Arabic or German).
- Complimentary breakfast at the office every morning.
- Can provide university credits as needed
- Fulfills Internship requirements.
- Upon the completion of the program, volunteers will receive a certificate of completion indicating their hard work and experience as a member of our community.
What Are The General Responsibilities Of Volunteers?
The general responsibilities of the volunteers include:
- Teaching 2 – 4 conversational English classes each week.
- Writing a review about their experience in Germany.
- Developing and honing effective teaching methods through hands-on experience.
- Creating, running, and organizing English-based workshops that can be either recreational or intended to teach students marketable skills, such as CV and resume writing.
- Creating and presenting two presentations: one focusing on the Teaching Manual provided by ViG, and the other about their home life, country, and culture.
- Participate in a weekly meeting with the director of the Volunteer in Germany organization to measure progress, discuss new ideas, possible issues, professional development, and more.
Day In The Life Of A Volunteer In Germany Volunteer
A Volunteer’s day at the Volunteer in Germany begins at 10:00 AM with a hot breakfast. Volunteers will eat together to start their day and are expected to either help with cooking breakfast or with cleaning up afterward. Breakfasts are held either inside or outside, depending on the weather, and are always fresh and hot. All volunteers have breakfast together at the center along with the staff to enjoy each other’s company, build a stronger connection, and prepare to have a productive and enjoyable day.
For lunch, participants will have the time to either cook at our office or go out and eat with other volunteers/interns at one of Halle’s many restaurants. Halle is a small, easily walkable city with a wide range of options when it comes to food. Within just a few meters of our building, one can find bakeries, grocery stores, Arab food restaurants, Asian food, Currywurst, vegetarian options, and more!
How Do The Volunteers Create Their Schedule?
Volunteers will either have courses in the morning or afternoon depending on their schedules and students’ availability. They are also able to build much of their learning German and teaching English schedules in tandem with the students they teach, creating a schedule that works best for everyone. Volunteers will communicate directly with their peers and pupils to provide an experience that suits the individual needs of the student as well as remain workable for teachers. Although volunteers’ schedules can be quite busy, there will still be plenty of free time to explore the city of Halle, perform recreational activities, prepare for presentations, meet with new friends, and relax.
In the evening, volunteers will usually either return to their host family or go out and explore the nightlife of Halle! Volunteers are encouraged to explore the city together and visit the many recreational activities in Halle. There will be recreational activities for volunteers and interns organized by the organization. Aside from the dozens of Cafes and Bars in Halle, there are also cultural activities, including a museum of modern art, a city history museum, community gardens, activities offered by the local university, city-arranged events, and the ever-changing Marktplatz in the heart of downtown that always has something interesting to offer.
When Can I Apply And For How Long Can I Volunteer?
The Teach English and Study German Program is available throughout the year (Spring, Summer, Winter, and Fall). This means that there are no deadlines. With its duration from 1 to 13 weeks, the program caters to short-term internships or extended stays. This means that the volunteers have flexible start and end dates that they choose themselves. The adventure is truly yours! And the ViG will be ready to accept you the moment you arrive.
What Does The Application Process Look Like?
- The prospecting volunteer will email the ViG requesting an application info@eceurope.com.
- The Volunteer in Germany will send you an application.
- We review the application with our team.
- We will request an interview; either via Skype, Zoom, or WhatsApp.
- If accepted, we will send you a letter of confirmation and a contract.
- You pay the program fees.
- You get ready to come to Germany and participate in the program!
Program Information Overview
| Place of Volunteer Program | The City of Halle (Saale), Germany |
| Program Fees | 300€ – Per Week |
| Age Requirement | 18 – 75 Years Old |
| Program Duration | 1 – 13 Weeks |
| Starting/Ending Dates | Available Year Round |
| Program Language | English |
| Days Off | 3 Days per Week (Friday – Sunday) |
| German Lessons | 3 Hours per Week |
| Educational Degree | None Required |
| University Credit | Available |
| Suitable For | Students Those seeking Internships Recent Graduates New Teachers Experienced Teachers First-time Travellers Experienced Travellers Language Learners Retirees Researchers |
The Volunteer in Germany charges a fee of 300€ a week, and the fee includes:
- A tour of the beautiful, historic city of Halle
- Breakfast four days a week
- Accommodation with a host family or shared apartment
- In-country and Pre-departure support with logistics, travel, etc.
- German classes (3 Hours a week)
- Certificate of completion
Registration fee: 50€ paid once at registration
Which Airport Should I Fly Into?
The Volunteer in Germany in Halle (Saale), Germany is most accessible through the following:
- Leipzig/Halle Airport: To travel from Leipzig/Halle Airport to the City of Halle (Saale) via train takes approximately 25 minutes. The train station is connected to the airport, and one should take good care to board the train heading for Halle (West) and not Leipzig (East).
- Berlin Brandenburg Airport: To travel from one of Berlin’s Airports to Halle, volunteers will either need to come by bus or by train once they have unboarded from their flight.
- To come via bus, volunteers will need to find routes available that are operated by either FlixBus or Eurolines. The commute from Berlin to Halle (Saale) should be approximately 2 hours by bus.
- For volunteers wishing to travel from Berlin to Halle (Saale) via train, they will need to depart from Berlin Central Station (Berlin Hauptbahnhof); the commute will take approximately an hour and a half. Train rockets can be bought ahead of time through Deutsche Bahn or conveniently at the train station and airport.
- Frankfurt Airport: Both trains and buses are available to travel from the airport to the city of Halle (Saale) with both commutes taking approximately 3 – 4 hours. Please see above for further information regarding travel from outside airports.
Coming To Germany On Your Own?
Volunteers traveling to Halle (Saale), Germany for the Volunteer in Germany program may initially journey solo. However, upon arrival, as they get embraced by our community, they will find themselves far from lonely. You will not be alone here. Instead, you will be a part of our team, and our home. The program’s mission extends beyond aiding refugees to also uniting individuals from around the world. Participants encounter diverse Arabic cultures and people from various nations.
With around 50 volunteers annually from countries like the USA, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Australia, China, and Japan, the program embraces anyone with positivity and drive. Regardless of origin, the Volunteer in Germany organization welcomes with open arms and hearts those eager to contribute. This experience fosters lifelong connections between the program participants. These connections can grow into deep friendships, loving memories, and international exploration through traveling beyond Germany.
Finding A New Family In Halle As A Volunteer In Germany
Furthermore, by the end of their service, volunteers will feel as if they are part of a family, making strong bonds with other volunteers, their students, and the program’s staff. Every volunteer that comes through our program offers something unique to those around them, creating strong teams and lasting friendships. We embrace this diversity because we see it as a strength, not a weakness. Together we can learn and grow, we can foster understanding and acceptance as a community. So, even though volunteers will need to travel to the Volunteer in Germany alone, they will never feel alone as they will forever be a part of the ViG’s family, and will earn a special place on the walls of the ViG, covered in the smiling faces of past volunteers, students, staff, friends and family.
Reviews From Former Participants Of The Volunteer in Germany Program
The Volunteer in Germany has welcomed individuals from all over the world since 2018. While we continuously develop our programs to provide the best possible learning experience, our fundamental mission remains the same: to connect, teach, and develop individuals within the local and international community.
In 2019, we received our first “Go Overseas Community Choice Awards”, recognizing the Volunteer in Germany’s meaningful and unforgettable impact on the community of international travelers. Since then the Volunteer in Germany was recognized as the 3rd best Volunteer Abroad Provider in the World in 2021 and was rated 2nd Most Fun opportunity in 2021 according to Gooverseas.com. The Volunteer in Germany’s Volunteer to Teach English and Study German program has a wide range of positive reviews; these include:
+746 Reviews (96.8%) on Gooverseas.com
+100 Reviews (93%) on Goabroad.com
Volunteer to Teach English Abroad and Study German participants’ video testimonials.
Summary Of The Volunteer In Germany Program
Many people can attest to the fact that there is one way to find true happiness: through selfless service to others. There is something incredibly unique about using the time and resources you have to help your fellow humankind succeed. If you have a desire to learn German or Arabic, if you want to help others by sharing a skill you’ve used your whole life (speaking English), and if you want to make a difference in the lives of others, then we are looking for you.
We accept all applications: whether you are a recent graduate, a student looking for an internship abroad, a retiree, or anyone in between looking to volunteer abroad with refugees. Come stay with us for 1-13 weeks in historic Halle (Saale), Germany, experience a life of service, connect with a unique and diverse community, and change the world one little bit at a time. We’re waiting for you!
Applications, Questions and Concerns
If you would like to participate in our Volunteer to Teach English and Learn German Program, please, write to us at Info@eceurope.org. We should respond to your initial inquiry within 1 – 3 business days. Do not hesitate to ask our friendly staff any questions or concerns you may have.
When you are ready to apply, write in the subject line of your email, “Volunteer to Teach English and Study German.” Upon writing back to you we attach an application form, which you will fill out and return to us to begin the on-boarding process. We are waiting for your application!
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@eceurope.org
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