Introduction
Britanica is a non-profit organization founded in 2004 with the goal of integrating Estonian children into European society. Its primary objective is to provide a learning environment where local children can acquire proficiency in at least two European languages, English and German, through both formal and informal methods. Britanica aims to foster international understanding, solidarity, and dialogue among young people and children worldwide.
Since 2005, Britanica has hosted international volunteers, enriching the organization’s ability to offer young people an opportunity to explore Europe and other continents—not only through language but also through exposure to diverse cultures, customs, food, music, and more. This project enhances intercultural learning for children, staff, and parents alike.
The organization serves 50-80 children, ages 8 to 17, most of whom are native Russian speakers. As such, the project focuses on integrating an ethnic minority group within Estonia. Intercultural learning and foreign language experiences are incorporated into daily activities such as workshops (e.g., drawing, seasonal crafts), attending local cultural events, visits and excursions, teamwork exercises, formal language lessons, and clubs like Reading and Conversation. The choice of activities
Work tasks
The volunteer will work closely with a staff member or project leader. The work environment is comfortable, with a staff room, lavatory, three activity rooms, and all the necessary equipment.
Volunteer’s tasks:
- Plan activities for the following day
- Assist staff in preparing supplementary materials
- Engage in play activities with children
- Help children with their homework and check their work
- Read with children
- Support the Conversation Club
- Assist during formal lessons
- Update the school’s blog and Facebook page
- Accompany children and staff during outdoor activities
The volunteer’s working hours will be from 14:00 to 18:00.
Benefits of volunteering
- Gain experience working with children and develop valuable interpersonal skills.
- Have the opportunity to contribute creative ideas and actively shape activities for kids.
- Enhance your knowledge of history and culture and share it with others in a creative way.
Requirements for the volunteer
The volunteer should be highly motivated and passionate about working with children. Previous experience in working with kids is considered an advantage, as it will help in fostering positive interactions and creating meaningful activities. It is essential that the volunteer not only brings creative ideas but also demonstrates a strong commitment to preparing and executing activities for the children.
The organization is looking for an active and enthusiastic volunteer who possesses a good understanding of their country’s history and culture. In addition, the volunteer should have the ability and desire to share this knowledge with others in an engaging and innovative way. Creativity and a proactive attitude are key qualities that the organization values in a volunteer, as they help contribute to a dynamic and enriching experience for the children.
Application
To apply, fill in the application form in the left column and send it to evs@estyes.ee
NB! We are flexible regarding the project dates which means we can change the service dates to some extent according to the needs of the volunteer.
This project has been funded with support from the European Commission European Solidarity Corps programme.
Project number: 2024-1-EE01-ESC51-VTJ-000216678
