Introduction
Britanica is a non-profit educational organisation dedicated to empowering children and young people in Tallinn, Estonia through language learning, intercultural exchange, and active participation in the community. Our mission is to create an inspiring and inclusive environment where children develop strong English communication skills while building confidence, curiosity, and respect for different cultures.
The organisation works with approximately 70–100 children and teenagers aged 8–17. Most participants come from Russian-speaking backgrounds living in Tallinn, Estonia and our programmes support their integration into the wider European community through education, cultural experiences, and meaningful social interaction.
At Britanica, we believe that language is more than a school subject—it is a bridge that connects people, opens new opportunities, and encourages international friendship. Learning takes place through a combination of formal and non-formal educational methods, creating a supportive international atmosphere where young people are encouraged to communicate, collaborate, and learn from one another.
International volunteers are an important part of our community. By sharing their own language, culture, traditions, and experiences, they help create authentic opportunities for children to practise English while developing intercultural awareness and broadening their understanding of the world.
Proposed Activities
The volunteer will support the daily activities of the organisation by encouraging children and young people to communicate in English in a natural and engaging way. Together with the staff, the volunteer will contribute to creating a positive, international learning environment where participants feel comfortable expressing themselves and discovering different cultures.
Depending on the current needs of the organisation and the interests of the volunteer, the specific tasks may vary. However, the main areas of involvement may include:
Tasks:
- Assisting during English language lessons and conversation clubs.
- Supporting workshops, educational games, and creative learning activities.
- Organising and participating in arts, crafts, music, sports, or cultural workshops.
- Introducing participants to the volunteer’s home country through presentations, discussions, celebrations, and intercultural events.
- Supporting reading activities and encouraging children to use English through storytelling and interactive exercises.
- Assisting during excursions, community events, camps, and other educational activities.
- Helping prepare teaching materials and activity resources.
- Encouraging teamwork, participation, and inclusion among children and young people.
- Contributing ideas for new educational and intercultural activities based on the volunteer’s own skills and interests.
- Supporting the organisation’s visibility by helping create photos, videos, or social media content when appropriate.
Learning Opportunities
During the volunteering experience, participants will gain practical experience in non-formal education, language learning, and intercultural communication. They will develop skills in teamwork, leadership, public speaking, activity planning, and working with children and young people from diverse backgrounds.
The volunteer will improve their organisational, communication, and problem-solving skills while learning about the Estonian education system, local community life, and the cultural diversity of Estonia. They will also have the opportunity to implement their own ideas and projects, strengthening their confidence, independence, and sense of initiative.
Regular support from the hosting organisation, a mentor, and the coordinating organisation will help the volunteer reflect on their learning process and document the competences gained throughout the activity, including through the Youthpass process.
Volunteer Profile
The hosting organisation is looking for an open-minded, motivated, and enthusiastic volunteer who enjoys working with children and young people in an international environment. Previous experience in education or youth work is welcomed but not required. The organisation values creativity, initiative, flexibility, patience, and a willingness to communicate in English while sharing one’s own culture and experiences with others..
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.
The project is supported by the Estonian Agency for Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps from the Erasmus+ program.
Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them.
