Volunteer to teach English in beautiful coastal city - hai phong

Philippines

5

I had a good time volunteering at the school English Center. Andy and his family are all friendly and supportive. The work was easy, but what made it fun was the students. They were all so eager to learn. The teachers also helped manage the classes and showed us around the city so we could learn more about their culture. Indeed, it was a learning-filled experience!

over 2 years ago

India

5

My experience at the school was nothing short of amazing. Andy, his family, his dogs, and the teachers were extremely humble and welcoming. I made such good friends and memories that I hope to cherish for life. I am almost considering moving to Vietnam for some time because of my incredible 2 weeks at Andy's.

over 2 years ago

United States

3

The center has good intentions and I enjoyed teaching, but aspects of my experience were not great. Biggest problem: communication and organization. Most days, there's no one at the center during daytime and I sat around trying to figure out what to do (barely anyone speaks English). It's a industrial Vietnamese city, very hard to get around w/a motorbike (Andy rents it for free!). Also, mold on my pillow was pretty gross. It was a hard place to be alone. I'd recommend going w/a friend if you do this. This said, Andy and staff are great people, but volunteer experience needs improvement.

about 2 years ago

United Kingdom

4

Overall I had a really fun experience and met lots of other travellers. The work commitment isn't actually that the school (usually only 3 hours per day) so you do end up having a lot of time to fill in the day, which worked well for me. The shared dorm is ok, some minor issues with cleanliness at the start of our stay but it's definitely an acceptable standard. The other english teachers and Andy are super helpful with recommendations and will even drive you around sometimes which was really kind. I also learned so much about Vietnamese culture too from students and staff. Overall, I recommend!!

about 2 years ago

El Salvador

4

Andy, Vy and Felix are really nice people and very flexible. I am vegetarian and they always did a vegetarian option for me. The classes were fun, especially kids class and beginners class. Students really want to learn which makes you more motivated. The dorm had aircon and was clean and comfortable. Overall a good experience.

about 2 years ago

United States

3

I enjoyed my stay at the school. The teachers and students were kind and welcoming. They took us out to great local restaurants. We got served lunch and dinner every day. the school gave us motorbikes for free which was fantastic. The best part was the teachers and students. However, there are aspects that need to be changed. The staff didn't pick us up so, download Grab to get you to the school. The sheets were not washed or changed. Other than those things, I made a lot of new friends and made amazing memories!

about 2 years ago

Australia

4

I made some great memories at the school English Centre and met some very friendly staff and students!! But I didn't get free breakfast or pickup. Instead of working 14 hours a week, I worked closer to 35 with 7 hours of teaching a day. Class schedules were often changed very last minute. Also, the sheets on my bed were not changed from the last person who slept there, the bathroom was dirty, and we had a bug infestation. But I'm still very grateful for the experience and would recommend it to other travellers who are flexible and aren't too worried about facilities. It was worthwhile overall!

about 2 years ago

Canada

4

Had a great time during my 4 weeks in Hai Phong thanks to all of the teachers, other volunteers, and students! They could definitely improve their communication so that there is less confusion at the beginning of each volunteers stay. Most of the information I got about the teaching, homestay, etc. was passed down through other volunteers rather than from those working at the Center. I also ended up being the only volunteer for my last week even though I had told there should be 3-6 other volunteers. Overall really enjoyed the experience and am going to miss everyone I met while I was there!

over 2 years ago

United Kingdom

2

Sadly wouldn't recommend. Teaching felt unorganised; I'd follow a teacher's guidance only to be told off by another in the same class (for example, on how i'd sat with students or which parts we were reading). I was surprised that some classes (like a morning one I had) didn't have a staff member so without notice I had to run it and guess lesson content. Bedroom and kitchen were mouldy, and the surrounding areas felt unsafe. Pictures do not match where you stay or teach. I had generous free time and Andy and the staff were friendly, I just think the experience has room for improvement.

over 2 years ago

United Kingdom

2

I wouldn't recommend. Accommodation isn't clean, there wasn't always enough food to share, and I wasn't given clear guidance on how to teach. Staff gave instructions that contradicted something another told you to do. The photos online are NOT up to date - we did not teach or sleep in those places. The main teaching centre is a drive away so if you are unable to ride/get a lift on motorbike please keep in mind no other options were given. I'm grateful for the people I met and that some issues (eg. veggie food, a broken shower) were listened to but updated photos and listing are needed.

over 2 years ago

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