Volunteer experiences from a primary school in South Africa

It was always clear to me that I would go abroad for a certain amount of time after my Abitur to gain experience and get to know new cultures. I ended up spending a total of four months in South Africa (Cape Town) to do volunteer work at a primary school there. Three months of that I was in the country with RGV, in the last month I've traveled a lot, including a two-week road trip through South Africa with other volunteers, which I will probably never forget.

Preparation and arrival

RGV was very supportive and helped me a lot in the pre-stay period and was able to answer any questions I had without any problems. I felt well prepared and so my flight to South Africa, which was still unknown to me, took off at the beginning of October. The transfer at the airport went without any problems, even if I had to wait a bit (African Time, you have to get used to that). I was also warmly welcomed in the Student House and immediately accepted by the volunteers who were there.

My work in the project

It was an incredibly beautiful time. I really enjoyed working on the project. At times I would have wished for more responsibility. I worked as an "assistant teacher" in a fifth grade. As soon as the children had questions or got stuck with one of their math problems, it was my turn and it was my job to help the children as best I could and introduce them to the material. A few times I was even allowed to take over one or the other lesson in which I did math and geography with the children. The children in my class were very lovable, open and interested. The fact is that I already miss my class again.

Extension for another two months

My original plan was to be back home in Germany a few days before Christmas. However, since I liked my time in Cape Town so much and unfortunately it went by far too quickly, I decided to extend my stay for another two months. I spoke to the RGV team on site and also sought email contact with the German-speaking employees. I was answered immediately and various suggestions were made. My wishes were very well addressed and my extension worked out very well. I got the visa I needed for this in less than three weeks.

My conclusion: a breathtaking and versatile country!

Overall, I really enjoyed my stay. Cape Town is a beautiful city and South Africa is a stunning and diverse country. RGV was a great help to me with the organization and especially with the extension. I've made a lot of new and good friends and also got to know very different and interesting people. I will continue to keep in touch with many of them. Various meetings in Germany have already been planned. For anyone who is still thinking. Stop thinking about it, just sign up!

Volunteer experience from a primary school in South Africa, by Alexander B., February 23.02.18, XNUMX