Improve the future of many
children by teaching
Help in our rural community classes in Tsunami village
-
Duration
1-24 Weeks -
Accompanied age
5+ -
Minimum age
17+ -
Start dates
1st & 3rd Saturday -
From
£180
-
Duration
1-24 Weeks -
Accompanied age
5+ -
Minimum age
17+ -
Start dates
1st & 3rd Saturday -
From
£180
Sri Lanka teaching volunteers
Quicklinks
Come and teach English to help improve the future of many underprivileged children. Your dedication and time will help massively to provide the education the children need in order to grow, develop and become independent. This is your chance to shine as you plan and lead your own lessons to children aged between 4 and 15.
The Mighty Roar have established their own community classes in a rural village in Sri Lanka on request of the local community and government to provide free English lessons to all children in the surrounding area. Not only this, but we also assist within under-resourced government run primary schools, giving you the perfect mix of formal and informal teaching!
Immerse yourself within the warm and welcoming community and get to know lots about the vibrant and diverse Sri Lankan culture.
Background to the teaching programme
Sri Lanka's education system is fairly impressive and advanced considering the size of this developing country. Education is taken very seriously and the vast majority of children between the age of 6 and 18 years old attend school. However, schools in the more remote and rural areas receive minimal funding and are expected to serve large communities. The facilities here are often very basic and it's not unusual to find 40-60 children in each class - meaning teachers are overstretched and under-resourced.
As with many developing countries around the world, the ability to speak English is becoming evermore paramount. The tourism industry in Sri Lanka is increasing year on year and is now one of the main income sources for the country. On top of this, many Sri Lankan's head abroad to the Middle East and other regions in search of higher paid jobs, with English being one of the main requirements.
The level of teaching English in government schools is limited, with poor resources and the teachers English ability being by no means perfect. More often than not, you will find students only learning to repeat from a textbook, rather than actually understanding the word and the context. It is very common to find children from middle and upper-class families enrolled into private English tuition classes, to ensure they are properly prepared for their futures.
We wish to try our best to provide all children with the chance to learn English, especially those from a poorer background. To do this, we provide free afternoon community classes specifically for English every weekday and also assist within the local government primary school to provide more one-to-one teaching and to come up with more creative and exciting lessons to keep everyone engaged.
Where will I be volunteering?
Akurala Primary School - Akurala School was one of the first schools in the whole of the Southern Province. Before the devastating tsunami in 2004, it was the main educational institute for the area. There were many more students attending and the school provided classes to children from the first to last grade - 6 to 18 years old. However, with many families being relocated by the government inland and many more now scared to live close to the ocean, the school shrunk in size. Today, the school teaches around 50 children each and every day, aged between 6 and 10 years old (primary education).
The head teacher has requested the help from our local team and international volunteers to not only assist with providing a greater education to the students that currently attend, but to also help with their ambitions to grow. With the help of you and other volunteers, we believe that we can rebuild and reorganise the school to again cater for children of all ages (primary and secondary education) and to help the local community prosper in their later lives.
Not only will you provide more creative and engaging lessons so the children better understand English, but the donations (from your programme fee) will go towards helping the school achieving their goals. We are already well on our way to introducing a computer class, to which volunteers will help teach in on a daily basis!
The Mighty Roar Community Classes - Our community class was created at the start of 2019 on request from the government and local community. Our makeshift school is located in the rural village of Galagoda, within an area commonly referred to as Tsunami village. The majority of families within this area were relocated here (further inland) by the government following the natural disaster in 2004.
The after-school education programme provides free English lessons and education opportunities to all children in the surrounding area. The children attend local government schools during the morning and then we aim to further their progress by providing free lessons every afternoon. There are currently over 80 children (aged between 4 and 15) that attend each and every day, who are split into three classes depending on their age and ability – with the biggest class having 40 children.
What is my role?
Your primary role will be teaching English within the local community by sharing your time, knowledge and skills. The presence of international volunteers will give the children an insight into different cultures and boost their confidence massively in conversational English - helping them to maximise their future potential.
Although the main focus of your time will be spent teaching English, you can also get involved with many other subjects. This can include teaching maths, art, music, drama, sports and more! Don’t think it will be all work, there will still be plenty of time to play outside and introduce fun new games!
You will lead your own classes (with the help of other volunteers) and have the freedom to create a lesson plan of your choice for each day. When teaching in the government school, you will need to ensure this fits in with the curriculum and at the community class we highly recommend talking with other volunteers to continue on their good work.
If you love to work with children and want to gain international work experience, this programme will stand out on your C.V. Many volunteers use our teaching programme to advance their career and/or to broaden their horizons for personal growth and development.
You will be able to see the impact your time has with the children on a daily basis (no other programme offers this) and you will get to know and love them on more of a personal level as time goes on!
What will a typical day look like?
You will be volunteering from Monday to Friday, with the weekends free for you to explore everything Sri Lanka has to offer. When volunteering in Akurala Primary school (normally Tuesday and Wednesday mornings) your days will start early, in line with the standard Sri Lankan school day! The community classes then run in the afternoons from around 3pm to 5:30pm and occur Monday through to Thursday.
After breakfast you will head to Akurala Primary School at 7:30am to prepare the classroom and welcome the children. After settling in and getting everything organised, you will then teach English and other subjects until 10am. Everyone then heads outside to play games and sports during break time, with volunteers being the main focus of attention. After the short break you will return back to the classroom to continue teaching until 11:30am before heading back to the accommodation for lunch.
You will then have several hours of free time where you can relax on the beach just outside of the volunteer house or head into Hikkaduwa to soak up the atmosphere. We also recommend taking around an hour to ensure you are properly prepared for the lessons the following day. We encourage volunteers to make lessons as engaging and interactive as possible to ensure you get the best response from the children - our local team and longer term volunteers can assist if you are struggling for ideas.
At 2:30pm, it's then time to board The Mighty Roar bus and head to the rural village of Galagoda for our community classes. When you arrive at the end of the drive, the first thing you will notice is all of the children waiting to greet you and walk with you down to the community hall. There is nothing better than seeing the smiling children who love to see and have fun with volunteers – it clearly shows the work everyone is doing is so worthwhile.
The first two hours are dedicated to teaching English and then the remaining half hour or so is for fun and games! Our local co-ordinator will be here to assist where necessary and you will have the time of your life with everyone!
Where will I be staying?
We cannot think of anywhere better to stay when volunteering in Sri Lanka! Our volunteer accommodation is just a stones throw away (10 second walk) from a quiet golden sand beach that is lined with palm trees – paradise! It’s the perfect place to come and relax each evening and witness some incredible sunsets. Not only this, but you can snorkel in the crystal clear waters that have an abundance of colourful fish swimming around the coral reef and you may even see a sea turtle swim by!
The touristy backpacker town of Hikkaduwa is just a 10 minute tuk-tuk ride away where you can visit many restaurants and bars that back right onto the beach. A favourite town amongst most volunteers, there are many supermarkets, quirky shops and water activities on offer – including surfing. The fishermen town of Ambalangoda is just another 10 minute tuk-tuk ride away in the other direction and offers a more local and traditional way of life. You can visit markets, devil mask museums and also see the largest laying down Buddha statue.
The accommodation is also conveniently located close to the historic town of Galle and well known beaches including Mirissa and Unawatuna.
Other things to consider
Top destination - Sri Lanka is widely considered by our volunteers to be our best volunteer destination. The majority of our feedback suggests that this is due to the superior local support offered by Charith and our local team, the volunteer programmes making a real difference, value for money and accommodation location. With this in mind, we believe that Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for first-time travellers, under 18's and families with younger children.
Helping on multiple projects - Whilst in Sri Lanka, you will also have the opportunity to get involved with our childcare programme for no additional cost. If you are also looking to help with our wildlife projects, then we would recommend applying for our sea turtle project - this will allow you to take part in many more of the programmes available.
Previous experience or qualifications - Although an advantage, no previous experience is required. As long as you bring lots of positive energy and are enthusiastic then your efforts and time will contribute massively to the school and local community.
Online TEFL course - Although not mandatory, we encourage volunteers to prepare as much as possible for their English teaching placement abroad. In the build up to your trip, you can make the most out of your time by completing an international accredited online TEFL course - costing £159. This course will not only prepare and provide the necessary skills allowing you to help further when volunteering, but can also be used to gain employment around the world.
Resources and donations - Resources can be very limited on our programmes in Sri Lanka and we would really appreciate any additional support that can be provided. It would be amazing if you could bring any materials associated with your project, including pens, paper and anything else you think will aid your time on the programme. If you are looking for an instant bond, then taking sweets is always a big hit with the children!
Weekends and free time - You will have every weekend off from volunteering and this is the perfect time to explore everything this beautiful island has to offer. You are more than welcome to simply relax around the accommodation and enjoy the nearby beaches, but most volunteers will use this time to travel and see the country. Further down this page you will come across many suggestions and ideas on where you could go. Alternatively, if you are looking to see as much of the country as possible during this time, travel with other volunteers and be accompanied by one of our local team members, then you may be interested in one or more of the organised weekend trips we run.
Further Information
Sri Lankan first timers
We spent three weeks at the Mighty Roar in Sri Lanka in February, working on the sea turtle, kindergarten and English teaching projects. As a family of four we felt so included and welcomed by Ayomi and her team and made so many unforgettable memories. From baby turtles to tuk tuk rides, and suns... Read More
Andy RoseFebruary 2024
Sri Lankan first timers
We spent three weeks at the Mighty Roar in Sri Lanka in February, working on the sea turtle, kindergarten and English teaching projects. As a family of four we felt so included and welcomed by Ayomi and her team and made so many unforgettable memories. From baby turtles to tuk tuk rides, and sunset swims to sunrise beach patrols it was such a memorable trip. Upon getting home to the UK we were craving some sort of dahl or curry as the food served everyday was so good. As a family in one room we had a bit more space than in some of the dorm rooms and were very pleased to have good working air-conditioning (essential!) and excellent mosquito nets on all the beds. The Sri Lankan laid back attitude to pretty much everything took a few days to get used to but once in the groove of it even hot and busy days were no real effort. Our main regret was not having more time to travel around other parts of the country after our time at TMR, though the weekend safari trip (great fun!) did help us see more beyond the coast. During our second weekend away (in Mirissa) we actually felt like we were missing the Mighty Roar as it really felt like a home whilst we were there. A wonderful place with wonderful people.
Andy RoseFebruary 2024
The Mighty Roar
Everyone is so kind, friendly, helpful and welcoming; the food and accommodation is very good and all the trips are thoroughly well organised - truly could not have been a better experience !!
Joseph BunyanFebruary 2024
Amazing experience with The Mighty Roar!
The Mighty Roar Sri Lanka was the most fabulous experience for us (myself, 7&13yr children). The project work with turtles, street dogs and local children (at school & kindergarten) was exciting, fun & rewarding. And TMR staff were always super kind, helpful & organised. All round... Read More
Jo GambiOctober 2023
Amazing experience with The Mighty Roar!
The Mighty Roar Sri Lanka was the most fabulous experience for us (myself, 7&13yr children). The project work with turtles, street dogs and local children (at school & kindergarten) was exciting, fun & rewarding. And TMR staff were always super kind, helpful & organised. All round an amazing experience working on really worthwhile, ethically run projects. Thank you TMR!
Jo GambiOctober 2023
Such lovely people
I spent a month teaching in Sri Lanka and had a wonderful time.
Teaching was more rewarding than I could have imagined, the children were all such angels, as was the teacher, who it was a pleasure to meet.
The accommodation felt very secure, all the staff and family were lovely .
Alanna TinesOctober 2023
Such lovely people
I spent a month teaching in Sri Lanka and had a wonderful time.
Teaching was more rewarding than I could have imagined, the children were all such angels, as was the teacher, who it was a pleasure to meet.
The accommodation felt very secure, all the staff and family were lovely .Maldives trip and travel week were both incredible and very good value for money.
Really recommend to anyone.
Alanna TinesOctober 2023
I did teaching volunteering in Sri…
I did teaching volunteering in Sri Lanka for three weeks and I had an amazing time. The people working there made the volunteer's safety and enjoyment top priority by organising optional activities like cricket games and meditation sessions. You attended a primary school for 3hrs on Monday and Tu... Read More
Phoebe LowAugust 2023
I did teaching volunteering in Sri…
I did teaching volunteering in Sri Lanka for three weeks and I had an amazing time. The people working there made the volunteer's safety and enjoyment top priority by organising optional activities like cricket games and meditation sessions. You attended a primary school for 3hrs on Monday and Tuesday morning where you play a TA role (e.g. running small activities, marking there work and making resources). The teachers there made me feel soo welcome. Then in the afternoon Monday through to Thursday you send 30mins planning a lesson then the next two hours running it with the other teaching volunteers. I found this very awarding as you can see the effect you have on these kids growth in learning English. Before I went I was nervous about planning lessons but the TMR staff help you to be fully prepared for the next 2hrs. You have Friday to Sunday to explore Sri Lanka, my biggest recommendation is filling up your weekends as much as possible, there is so much to see. The best part about my experience was the people I met, you are going to meet so many different people of different ages and experiences, you will make life long memories. Therefore, I strongly recommend this program, you will have so much fun.
Phoebe LowAugust 2023
The staff is amazing and the place too
The staff is amazing and the place too. Best experience ever!
Thank you Mamu, Jaya and Ayomi.
Jone BarrancoJuly 2023
My Favourite Travel Experience
My favourite travel experience, I will be back!
I have just finished 5 weeks teaching in Sri Lanka, and I will miss it so much. A massive thank you to the local team for really making me feel apart of their family and giving me a home away from home!
The teaching was an amazing opport... Read More
Zhanaye FentyFebruary 2023
My Favourite Travel Experience
My favourite travel experience, I will be back!
I have just finished 5 weeks teaching in Sri Lanka, and I will miss it so much. A massive thank you to the local team for really making me feel apart of their family and giving me a home away from home!
The teaching was an amazing opportunity to meet the local students an overall rewarding experience. I was able to carry out some great lessons that the students loved and I always felt like I had plenty of support from Ayomi and the teaching volunteers! Ayomi was constantly looking for ways to improve our experience, but I couldn’t fault with my time with TMR
There were so many opportunities to see all parts of Sri Lanka and get involved with the community! They organised so many different tours and activities for us throughout the week, I never once had a boring moment! We were encouraged try new things and live like locals, this included all the different foods we got during meal times, my personal favourite being Rotty 😍
I’ve made friends for life and will miss the amazing students and the local team so much. I would highly recommend this experience!
Zhanaye FentyFebruary 2023
3 Weeks Teaching in Sri Lanka
I did the 3 weeks Teaching Programme with The Mighty Roar in Sri Lanka on the 3rd June and I had the best experience. I was able to grow as a person and gain valuable experience in primary school! The staff in Sri Lanka will go above and beyond for you. Ayomi was amazing and supportive and kept m... Read More
Ellis GregoryJuly 2022
3 Weeks Teaching in Sri Lanka
I did the 3 weeks Teaching Programme with The Mighty Roar in Sri Lanka on the 3rd June and I had the best experience. I was able to grow as a person and gain valuable experience in primary school! The staff in Sri Lanka will go above and beyond for you. Ayomi was amazing and supportive and kept me informed the whole experience. A special mention is also due to Mamu, Chutti, and Hector who were absolutely amazing! I was nervous due to being Vegan but the staff ALWAYS catered for me and others with allergies/preferences/requirements. The food was always gorgeous and the staff will always keep you busy and happy. Sri Lanka is a beautiful country which needs tourism and volunteers now more than ever! I meet a wonderful bunch of like-minded people across all programmes. Couldn’t recommend it more.
Ellis GregoryJuly 2022
Amazing Experience
I came to Sri Lanka with the mighty roar for 6 weeks in may and can honestly say it was the best life experience I’ve ever had! I met the best people and the most amazing staff who will always have your best interests at heart. The country all in all is beautiful and I saw and experienced so mu... Read More
Holly JohnsonJuly 2022
Amazing Experience
I came to Sri Lanka with the mighty roar for 6 weeks in may and can honestly say it was the best life experience I’ve ever had! I met the best people and the most amazing staff who will always have your best interests at heart. The country all in all is beautiful and I saw and experienced so much culture, especially ending my trip with the 9 day experience. The accommodation came to be my home away from home and I felt supported and safe by the staff there at all times.
The volunteer program wasn’t what I was expecting for the teaching and I only did 2 hours per day and the kids came to the accommodation due to covid restrictions, however I still really enjoyed it and met great kids too! I was teaching with the other volunteers but asked for more resources and this was sorted by the staff which made it a lot easier for me.
Overall, I would definitely recommend for solo travelers if your looking for a safe way to travel alone and experience all the country has to offer!
Holly JohnsonJuly 2022
Amazing Experience
Amazing experience. All of the family were so lovely and very helpful :)
Olivia WilliamsJuly 2022
4 Weeks At TMR Sri Lanka
I spent 4 weeks at TMR Sri Lanka, for the first 3 on the teaching programme and the last doing the childcare programme. I can easily say that it was one of the most rewarding and fun experiences I’ve ever had.
It was such a good way to see everything the country has to offer. I met ... Read More
Joe RobertsApril 2022
4 Weeks At TMR Sri Lanka
I spent 4 weeks at TMR Sri Lanka, for the first 3 on the teaching programme and the last doing the childcare programme. I can easily say that it was one of the most rewarding and fun experiences I’ve ever had.
It was such a good way to see everything the country has to offer. I met some of the most amazing people, who I know I’ll be friends with for years who really made my time at TMR. Mamu, Chutti and Hector (the local team) made sure we always had everything we needed and we had a smile on our faces. Mini (who is in charge) is one of the friendliest people I’ve ever met, always making sure everything went smoothly. we were happy and knew what was going on. She really made TMR such a special place to.
Joe RobertsApril 2022
4 Weeks In Sri Lanka
TMR in Sri Lanka is a must do. I was a teacher with them for 4 weeks, spending 4 days a week planning and carrying out English lessons with the sweetest kids from the local town and surrounding area, with ages and ability ranging.
My personal highlights from my time spent there was the peop... Read More
Malachy LushMarch 2022
4 Weeks In Sri Lanka
TMR in Sri Lanka is a must do. I was a teacher with them for 4 weeks, spending 4 days a week planning and carrying out English lessons with the sweetest kids from the local town and surrounding area, with ages and ability ranging.
My personal highlights from my time spent there was the people, including staff and fellow volunteers. From day one everyone was very welcoming, and spending all day and night with like-minded people really makes you get to know them. The onsite staff were there for anything you could need, with amazing local food prepared by Renu and her team. Chutti never failed to make us laugh, and barely saw him without a massive smile on his face. I have many unforgettable memories with Mammuh (as well as some slightly embarassing ones we would both like to forget). He and Suddah took us on the Hill country weekend trip, which is another addition to the trip I would recommend to everyone if you wish to escape the beach on a well organised and thought out few days with a lot to see. Having Hector around the grounds, usually sweeping into the early hours around us or telling us about his love for dogs, was very special too.
Thank you also to Karru, Suddah, Aunty & Uncle, who were very welcoming to all of us into the accomodation.
Very big thank you to Mini, who organised all the volunteers and their day to day activities. She was helpful in providing any info needed and keeping her cool with some volunteers and their insignificant questions. Only problem I faced with her was her inability to lose at cards. Had to resort to very questionable ways just to get an edge.
Only thing overall I could fault TMR was the lack of a covid plan. This lead to a lot of changes to information and a slightly uncoordinated week. This I'm sure is different after the first time.
Overall, TMR in Sri Lanka earned a 5/5 review - made some amazing friends and memories that I'll cherish forever. Thank you to everyone who was there with me x
Malachy LushMarch 2022
Kindergarten and English teaching experience
What amazing experience helping out on this hugely rewarding project. Special thanks to Charith and family, Mamoo, Hector, Chutti, Mini, Chris and all the wonderful children we were fortunate to meet and teach in Akurala.
Would 100% recommend to anyone looking to volunteer.
All the be... Read More
Matthew SimsJanuary 2022
Kindergarten and English teaching experience
What amazing experience helping out on this hugely rewarding project. Special thanks to Charith and family, Mamoo, Hector, Chutti, Mini, Chris and all the wonderful children we were fortunate to meet and teach in Akurala.
Would 100% recommend to anyone looking to volunteer.
All the best for the future and I hope to be back again soon.
Matthew SimsJanuary 2022
The Best Experience
The 3 weeks I volunteered for was one of the best experiences of my life and my only regret is not booking for longer. The Sri Lankan family made the trip by being so welcoming and friendly, constantly trying to help out and make your day. The actual childcare volunteering was rewarding and alway... Read More
Rachel EacottDecember 2019
The Best Experience
The 3 weeks I volunteered for was one of the best experiences of my life and my only regret is not booking for longer. The Sri Lankan family made the trip by being so welcoming and friendly, constantly trying to help out and make your day. The actual childcare volunteering was rewarding and always fun to see the energetic kids. The organised weekend trip was absolutely amazing allowing us to explore more of Sri Lanka. The accommodation was in the perfect location with the beach at your doorstep and two towns close by. I met so many amazing people and made friends for life.
Rachel EacottDecember 2019
A Unique Experience in Sri Lanka
I really enjoyed volunteering through the Mighty Roar in Sri Lanka. I was on the teaching programme but also got to be involved with the turtle conservation as it’s all based in the same place, which is great. I loved seeing the baby turtles newly hatched and releasing them on the beach- it was... Read More
Antonia LeslieOctober 2019
A Unique Experience in Sri Lanka
I really enjoyed volunteering through the Mighty Roar in Sri Lanka. I was on the teaching programme but also got to be involved with the turtle conservation as it’s all based in the same place, which is great. I loved seeing the baby turtles newly hatched and releasing them on the beach- it was a really special experience. I went in August so school was closed but I taught English for 2 hours in the afternoons by a sort of village hall. The kids were so so sweet and I had a lot of fun teaching them. I had the freedom to plan all the lessons which I really enjoyed. The Mighty Roar accommodation has a great location right opposite the beautiful wild Indian Ocean coast. It’s a short tuk tuk journey from the busy touristy town of Hikkaduwa and quite near to Galle which is a Sri Lankan city with a lot of charm. The accommodation is quite basic but comfortable enough. It’s the family compound of Mr Karu (who runs the weekend trips and is a lovely man). The family/homely atmosphere of the place is really nice- I enjoyed getting to know Karu & his family. Everyone was so friendly. I stayed a month but I think it’s fine to come here for 2/3 weeks. Coming longer gives more chance to travel around the country at weekends however- I went to Kandy with 1 other volunteer, on a Mighty Roar weekend trip to Ella, Yala National Park etc. It was wonderful to see lots of the country as well as volunteering. I’m 33 so was quite a bit older than lots of the other volunteers, some of whom were 16/17, but it didn’t matter too much in the end- everyone was friendly and I wasn’t the oldest at least! As some mums came with their teenage children. All in all volunteering through TMR in Sri Lanka was an experience & an adventure & I’m really glad I went!
Antonia LeslieOctober 2019
Sri Lanka review
All members of the team in Sri Lanka were extremely helpful and committed to ensuring all volunteers had the best time possible! Weekend trips provided were excellent for the prices!
The 2 weeks I was there flew by and the overall experience I had was amazing! Would definitely recommend and... Read More
Erin StottAugust 2019
Sri Lanka review
All members of the team in Sri Lanka were extremely helpful and committed to ensuring all volunteers had the best time possible! Weekend trips provided were excellent for the prices!
The 2 weeks I was there flew by and the overall experience I had was amazing! Would definitely recommend and would myself love to go back and do it again if I can!
Erin StottAugust 2019
Sri Lankan teaching and turtle projects
It was a great experience that I would definitely recommend to anyone. We were looked after so well by the lovely family with great food, nice and clean accommodation and a fun atmosphere. I did both the teaching and the turtle project and found both of them very rewarding especially the teaching... Read More
Emily FalleMay 2019
Sri Lankan teaching and turtle projects
It was a great experience that I would definitely recommend to anyone. We were looked after so well by the lovely family with great food, nice and clean accommodation and a fun atmosphere. I did both the teaching and the turtle project and found both of them very rewarding especially the teaching as you could see the improvement of the kids confidence in speaking english after just a week. I will always remember the two weeks I was there and will definitely be back.
Emily FalleMay 2019
Volunteering with the children was my main reason for going, but the benefit of also helping out with sea turtles was a massive bonus! Teaching made my 4-weeks trip even more better than I thought it could ever be. I loved those kids and miss them greatly. I would love to go back to see them and ... Read More
Esther BrownJanuary 2019
Volunteering with the children was my main reason for going, but the benefit of also helping out with sea turtles was a massive bonus! Teaching made my 4-weeks trip even more better than I thought it could ever be. I loved those kids and miss them greatly. I would love to go back to see them and i was very emotional when it ended.
Overall this experience was greater than I ever first imagined. It made me a more confident and independent person. It showed me things I never thought possible and opened up my eyes to wonderful opportunities. I would defiantly recommend this trip to everyone and I would defiantly want to go back when I get the chance. Thank you The Mighty Roar and thank you to Charith and his wonderful family.
Esther BrownJanuary 2019
Schedule a Zoom call
Schedule a Zoom call
Interested in volunteering abroad with The Mighty Roar? Why not schedule a 15 minute Zoom call!
Whether you need help narrowing down your options or have questions about a specific trip we offer, we can go into detail about all aspects of our programmes. This can include the day to day itinerary, finances, weekend trips, safety, arrival procedures and more!
Simply click the below link to head over to our calendar page and choose the best date and time for you.
Accommodation & meals
Accommodation & meals
We cannot think of anywhere better to stay when volunteering in Sri Lanka! Our volunteer accommodation is just a stones throw away (10 second walk) from a quiet golden sand beach that is lined with palm trees – paradise!
It’s the perfect place to come and relax each evening and witness some incredible sunsets. Not only this, but you can snorkel in the crystal clear waters that has an abundance of colourful fish swimming around the coral reef and you may even see a sea turtle swim by!
For all wildlife lovers, there are regular sightings of sea turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs just metres away from the accommodation! Our local team will happily come on walks late into the evening or wake you up in the night so you can witness this magnificent experience.
Our spacious and comfortable volunteer accommodation is set on a large plot of land where you will be staying in one of our purpose built houses. Surrounded by the jungle on one side and the beach on the other, you have the best of both worlds! You can sit back and relax outside under the sun while drinking from a King Coconut that grow on the many palm trees around the accommodation or top up your tan over at the beach.
Everyone comes together to eat their delicious meals outside under a traditional shelter where you can all share stories and you’ll even be able to hear the waves crashing down. This is also the perfect place for impromptu parties and BBQ’s where you can socialise into the night looking up at the dark starry sky.
You will generally be sharing a room with up to 5 other volunteers in comfy bunk beds with all bedding and mosquito nets are provided. During our busier times, you may need to share a room with up to 7 other volunteers. All rooms have the added luxury of air-conditioning and modern en-suite bathrooms. If you’re lucky you could be staying in one of the bedrooms that have a small balcony where you can look far into the jungle and you can even see the sea!
Wi-Fi is available throughout the accommodation although this can be intermittent. Our local team are more than happy to provide laundry services at a small charge.
The backpacker town of Hikkaduwa is just a 5-minute tuk tuk ride away where you can visit many restaurants and bars that back right onto the beach. A favourite town amongst most volunteers, there are many supermarkets, quirky shops and water activities on offer – including surfing.
The accommodation is also conveniently located close to the historic town of Galle and famous beaches including Mirissa, Unawatuna and Ambalangoda. There are also great bus and train links that allow you to easily explore the rest of the country.
During busier months you may be placed at alternative accommodation. This will generally be a smaller house around 5 minutes from the main house within the same village.
Meals
This is your chance to live life like a local and try some mouth-watering local cuisine! Freshly prepared and cooked each day, you will get to try many traditional Sri Lankan dishes as well as some western home comforts.
All meals are provided at our volunteer accommodation and are included within the programme fee (except at weekends, please budget £2 per meal). All volunteers come together each meal time to sit outside, socialise and eat – the perfect time to share stories.
Here is an example of some of the meals you can expect:
Breakfast – Toast, omelette, string hoppers, fresh fruits, tea, milk
Lunch – Rice, vegetables, chicken, fish, dhal, curry, poppadoms
Dinner – Noodles, rice, pasta, hoppers, vegetables, curry
We are able to cater for several dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten free. Please state any requirements when applying.
Volunteer fees
Volunteer fees
All of the below prices exclude the £179 registration fee. The total price payable is the below programme price + the £179 registration fee, as will be confirmed in the application process. To find out exactly what's included as part of fees, please click the What's Included box on the programme page.
What's included
What's included
The fees you pay go towards the structure and support put in place in order to provide you with an organised and safe environment in which to volunteer. The programme fee goes directly to our local team in Sri Lanka and is used towards the following:
- Airport pickup
- Accommodation
- All meals on volunteering days
- Transport to Projects
- In-country orientation
- 24-hour in-country support
The registration fee that you pay to confirm your place on the volunteer programme is retained by our team in the United Kingdom. This fee is used towards the following:
- 24-hour UK based emergency support
- Unlimited telephone and email support
- A comprehensive volunteer handbook
- Assistance with all aspects of your trip
- 100% financial protection
- Regular programme inspections
- Certificate of completion
What's not included
There are still some parts of your trip that will need to be funded by yourself, these include:
- Flights to Colombo
- Travel insurance
- The transfer back to the airport
- Visa
- Criminal background check
- Spending money
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
What are the requirements to be a volunteer in Sri Lanka?
The Mighty Roar welcomes volunteers from all nationalities, religions and backgrounds. No previous experience or qualifications are required to volunteer and we look forward to hosting everyone who is willing to come and help make a difference and bring lots of positive energy.
We ask that all volunteers have a good level and understanding of English, although it does not need to be your first language. You of course do not need to speak the local dialect, but you will find learning a few words will go a long way.
You must be able to provide a clean criminal background check in advance of volunteering with us abroad. We're afraid we are generally unable to accept anyone who has any previous convictions, but please do get in touch so we can discuss this further.
Volunteering abroad can at times be both physically and mentally challenging, therefore we ask that all participants be fit in both areas. If you do have any medical / mental health conditions that you believe may affect your time volunteering, then these must be declared to us during the application process. If you have any questions regarding your suitability, then please do not hesitate to contact us.
Are there any age restrictions to volunteer in Sri Lanka?
If you are hoping to volunteer with us in Sri Lanka, then you will need to be at least 17 years old on the programme start date. If you are travelling to Sri Lanka as a family (with at least one person being aged 18 years or over), then we are happy to welcome anyone from 5 years and up on the programme start date. Generally the average age range for our programmes is 17 - 25, although this is by no means definitive.
None of our programmes have an upper age limit and in the past we have hosted participants of all ages. We find that age does not play an important part of volunteering abroad, as everyone has travelled for the same reason and to make new friends. However, in saying this, we have found at times that our more mature participants have perhaps expected a higher level of accommodation or structure. We cannot stress enough that all volunteers should remain open minded and flexible.
When is the best time of year to volunteer in Sri Lanka?
Over the years we have hosted many volunteers across all of our programmes in Sri Lanka and have obtained lots of feedback from everyone. The comments suggest that if you are looking for a large social experience then volunteering during the European summer months of June to August will provide the best experience. During this time we host our peak numbers across all projects and this is when we will be at total capacity in terms of the accommodation and numbers at the projects.
Conversely, volunteering outside of these months will typically provide the greatest opportunity to become fully immersed at the projects and within the local community and give you the chance to build a greater bond with our local team. You will of course still make many new lifelong friends along the way too!
I am really interested in volunteering in Sri Lanka, when should I apply?
You are more than welcome to apply at any time for any of our programmes, with start dates available at least two years in advance. We recommend that you apply as soon as you know it is something you 100% want to do, to ensure the best chances of availability on your chosen dates. Many of our programmes have limited capacity and at times these spaces can get filled very quickly - this is particularly true for our peak period between June and August.
We generally recommend applying at least 60 days in advance to give you ample time to ensure everything has been arranged. However, if you are looking to volunteer sooner than this, then it should not be a problem. Please do get in contact if you have any concerns about arranging any essentials within a shorter timeframe.
Once you have applied and confirmed your place on the programme, then it is possible to amend your start date and / or duration. Any changes need to be made at least 60 days prior to your start date and are subject to availability.
What duration would you recommend volunteering for?
This is of course down to personal preference, however, on gaining feedback from previous volunteers we believe 3 to 6 weeks is the ideal amount of time to volunteer for. Not only will you be able to get fully involved with all aspects of the programme and integrate yourself within the local community, but you will also have many opportunities to explore everything Sri Lanka has to offer on the weekends. We regularly have volunteers come for 1 to 2 weeks that tell us they wish they stayed for longer.
What date should I arrive and leave Sri Lanka for my volunteer programme?
You should arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo (CMB) on your selected start date, being the 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. You will be met by one of our local team members or an appointed driver who will be holding a named sign and will take you to our accommodation 2-3 hours away.
The programme ends on a Saturday of your final week and you should depart the accommodation on this day. Our local team will be happy to help organise any onward journeys or take you back to the airport, but please note this is not included within the programme fee.
Can I volunteer with TMR if I live outside of the UK?
Yes of course! Although The Mighty Roar is located within the United Kingdom, we welcome participants from all around the world. Over the years we have hosted many volunteers from across the globe, including USA, Germany, France, Canada, Australia and more. We wish for everyone to have an equal opportunity to travel and help make a difference, no matter where you are from.
Can I volunteer abroad with my friends / parents / partner?
You are of course more than welcome to travel and volunteer with your friends, family members and / or your partner. If required, we can ensure that you stay within the same accommodation and volunteer at the same project - so that you are together as often as wanted. Our volunteer accommodation is on a single-sex basis, so if you are wanting to share a a room with someone of the opposite sex, we will do our best accommodate this. However, it would be dependent on space and logistics at the time.
Why are TMR's volunteering fees so much more affordable than other organisations?
The Mighty Roar was founded with the aim to make all of our volunteering programmes as affordable and accessible as possible, allowing this once in a lifetime opportunity to all travellers. If you really want, we will even allow you to compare our pricing with other organisations, charities and not-for-profits where you will find us significantly cheaper.
How can we do this I hear you ask? Well, it’s pretty simple really! We do not need big fancy offices, lots of employees or massive monthly overheads. Our small family team work from a cosy farm office and we have done away with out-dated glossy brochures, an unnecessary high street shop or plush office and because we are passionate about what we do, we don't need 10+ staff to handle all of the operations.
Can I talk to previous volunteers and others who will be volunteering in Sri Lanka at the same time as me?
Each and every destination we operate in has its very own dedicated Facebook group where you can talk with past, present and future volunteers. This is the perfect place to ask any questions from previous volunteers and to also talk with other volunteers who will be volunteering at the same time as you.
You can request to join the Sri Lanka Facebook group by clicking here.
Will I be able to travel whilst volunteering in Sri Lanka?
There will be plenty of opportunities for you to travel while volunteering in Sri Lanka. In fact, we actively encourage you to do so! Not only will you have several hours of free time every weekday to explore the local area, but you will also have the weekends off - allowing you to head further afield. Our local team are able to provide you with recommendations and details of any weekend opportunities and travel tips to help you plan any independent adventures. Please feel free to also browse some of our own recommendations further down on the programme page.
The Mighty Roar also operate a number of amazing weekend trips every month that allow you to explore the country as a group with your new-found friends. The structured itinerary along with our local team accompanying you ensures you travel in a safe manner and allows you to see as much as possible during your free time. You can view all available weekend opportunities here.
Is it safe to travel to Sri Lanka? What support will I receive?
While we can never guarantee your volunteer experience will be 100% trouble free, we have taken all of the necessary precautions to minimise all risks and to ensure all programmes are as safe as possible. Our helpful and knowledgeable UK team are with you throughout your whole journey, from answering questions about programmes, through the application process, providing pre-departure information, support while in-country and to answer any questions you may have on your return home.
A member of our UK team visit each and every volunteer programme we offer on a regular basis to rigorously check all aspects of the project - something generally not done by most other organisations! We experience every programme just like a volunteer would, from staying within the accommodation, helping on the projects, eating the meals provided and travelling the local area. By doing this, not only can we ensure everything is safe and running as planned, but we can truly tell you what to expect and can provide informed recommendations and advice about anything relating to your trip.
As part of our commitment to your safety, we monitor the stability of all of our volunteer destinations on a daily basis. We are in communication with the local embassies and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office and we are also in constant contact with our overseas teams to ensure we can identify and act upon any problems immediately.
Every volunteer programme we offer has a co-ordinator and several key team members who will be in charge of ensuring your whole trip runs smoothly. Our local teams are made up of highly experienced individuals who have hosted international volunteers for many years. Everyone will be introduced to you during your orientation and it's these amazing people that will be on hand to answer any questions, deal with any issues and to help make any travel arrangements. Over the duration of your programme, we are sure that the local staff will also become your new best friends and will make your experience even more enjoyable!
With the majority of our programmes, a member of our local team or a trusted appointed driver will be waiting for you at the airport for when you arrive. Over the first day or two you will be given a full orientation that will cover things like emergency procedures, how to use the local transport, the do's and don'ts, local cultures and health and safety information.
Please do not forget that our UK office is available 24/7 in case of any rare emergencies, on the number provided within the volunteer handbook. Both our UK and international team's contact details can be passed onto friends and families and to ensure everyone has peace of mind.
Do you offer an online TEFL course?
For volunteers joining us on one of our amazing and worthwhile teaching programmes around the world, the only real 'qualifications' you need are bags or energy and to be committed to making a difference. However, why not do some preparation work before you head into the classroom. Our Level 5 TEFL Course (168 hours), can be studied completely online over a 6-month period, which is ideal for those with other commitments – and leaves you the freedom to study wherever and whenever suits you!
If you believe teaching may be the career for you (here in the UK or abroad), then our TEFL course is the perfect starting point to launching your new career. After completing the course, not only will you have a greater understanding, but you will also gain an internationally accredited certificate that qualifies you to teach English as a foreign language. Our course is a level 5 qualification, which is the same as a diploma / foundation degree, one step above a-levels, but below a university degree.
The course costs £159 and you can find further information about the online TEFL course here.
When do I pay for my volunteer programme? Can I pay in instalments?
In order for you to confirm your placement on one of our programmes, you need to pay the registration fee of £179. Your remaining balance for your programme fee and any weekend trips and / or optional extras is then due no less than 60 days prior to your programme start date. if you're applying within 60 days of your programme start date then the remaining balance will be due no later than 7 days after your initial application.
When paying for your remaining balance, this can be made in one lump sum or split into several smaller instalments - just as long as the balance is clear 60 days prior to your programme start date. If you have chosen to take travel insurance through The Mighty Roar, then this must be paid in full before the policy can be processed and made live.
We accept payments via BACS (bank transfer) or through our website using all major debit and credit cards. All details required to make payment will be outlined in our email communications with you and they can also be found within your online account once you have confirmed your place.
Can I use the programme as part of my university or college placement?
Yes, it is generally possible to use the majority of our programmes as part of your university or college placement. Since all placements have different requirements and parameters, we recommend that you speak to a member of our UK team to ensure that your chosen volunteer programme will be suitable. Any school / college / university representative is more than welcome to contact us to discuss further the suitability of our programmes and to ensure they are satisfied with all aspects of the trip.
Our UK and in-country teams are able to complete and sign-off any paperwork that is required before your volunteer placement begins, during your trip and upon your return. The Mighty Roar regularly receives college and university students on our programmes and have built up strong ties with many leading universities.
Can I fundraise to pay for my volunteering trip?
Although we do our best to keep our programme costs as low and as affordable as possible, when you add flights, travel insurance and spending money you may find that you need a little financial help. The money you and other volunteers pay for the programme goes towards the overall structure of the project and includes your accommodation, meals, airport transfers and support from our UK and local teams.
Consequently, a large number of our volunteers decide to fundraise for their upcoming trip. We find that the best way of letting all of your friends and family know about your volunteer adventure is to create an online fundraising page. The Mighty Roar have teamed up with GoGetFunding who are an online crowd funding website that many of our volunteers have used and have recommended in the past. You will be able to create a personalised fundraising page of your own where you can tell everyone exactly what you are doing and why you need some extra money (the more detail you go into the better), set financial goals and upload lots of pictures.
You can read some more advice about fundraising for your upcoming trip here.
How much spending money will I need?
It is very difficult for us to give an exact figure for how much spending money you will need to take with you. The amount you spend is totally dictated on what you plan on doing during your free time and at the weekends. We recommend that you budget between £50 and £100 per week for general expenses and some independent travel. However, if you plan to travel every weekend and take part in many activities then you should budget accordingly. If you are on a tight budget, then we have had many volunteers come and not spend that much at all.
Will I need any vaccinations and / or malaria tablets to volunteer abroad?
As we are not medical experts and have no qualifications or experience within this field, we are unable to give any advice about what vaccinations you should or should not have. It is important for you to consult with your local doctor or travel clinic to find out which vaccinations are needed / recommended. They will generally ask where abouts you will be travelling to and what activities you will be involved in. Additional information can be found on the NHS Fit For Travel website.
Who are the the local team in Sri Lanka?
Our programmes in Sri Lanka are run by a dedicated and experienced in-country local team. Charith, Mamu, Karu, Renu and their colleagues are in charge of providing the overall structure for your stay, including the accommodation, meals, airport pick-up, in-country orientation and 24/7 emergency support.
All local staff have been fully vetted by our UK team and over the years we have built up a strong relationship with them. The local team provide a great framework for you to enjoy a unique volunteering experience with us in Sri Lanka and they are sure to become your good friends, giving you a unique insight into Sri Lanka.
Can I arrange a private room?
Our volunteer accommodation in Sri Lanka involves sharing a room with other participants on a same-sex basis. However, when we are not operating at full capacity, you may have the option to have a private room - although this is not something we can guarantee. Please note, the local team charge a small additional nightly fee to cover the air conditioning costs when requesting a private room.
Can you cater for my dietary requirements?
Our local team will do their best to cater for any dietary requirements you may have. Any dietary requirements should be provided on your application and re-iterated to the local team on arrival into the country. It is important that if you have any concerns for major requirements, that you raise these with our UK team before confirming your place on the programme.
It is important to note that we cannot guarantee that we can cater for all requirements. Consequently, there may be instances where you need to purchase alternative ingredients or arrange dinner plans at a third party restaurant at your own expense.
What will a typical week in Sri Lanka entail?
Day 1 (Saturday) - Arrival & Hikkaduwa
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Our local team member will meet you in the airport arrivals hall and will be holding a sign with your name on. If there are no other volunteers arriving on a slightly later flight, you will head off to our volunteer accommodation. Depending on traffic, the journey can take between 2 and 3 hours.
If you arrive in the morning or early afternoon, you will have the rest of the day to settle in and meet everyone. We recommend heading to the nearby tourist town of Hikkaduwa to see the beaches and to relax in one of the beach bars / restaurants.
Day 2 (Sunday) - Orientation, Temples & Waterfalls
After breakfast, our local team will give you an orientation. During this talk, you will learn about do’s and don’ts, the local culture and religion and important information about the accommodation and programmes.
Shortly afterwards, you will have the opportunity to purchase water and snacks before heading off on a walking tour of the village.
Commonly referred to as the “Jungle Temple Walk”, we will head inland through the jungle. Here you will get to see how the locals live, cross over the train tracks (getting the mandatory sitting on train track photo!) and being taught about all of the things growing around you. We will get the unique opportunity to be shown around an ancient and important Buddhist temple. You’ll get to learn all about Buddhism and see how monks live. The walk will then take you back to the coast, where you can enjoy the nice views as you walk along the track.
Everyone will then enjoy a buffet lunch outside in our large eating area.
As a group we will then hop onboard The Mighty Roar bus to travel to some beautiful waterfalls located in the middle of the jungle! Along the short trek to the waterfalls, you should keep your eyes out for monkeys swinging above you! Here you will get to take some photos of the falls as well as go for a swim in the naturally formed pool at the top – what a great introduction to Sri Lanka!
Days 3-7 (Monday-Friday) - Volunteering
You will start your volunteer work on Monday morning. Depending on which programme you are helping on will dictate your working hours. Please see the programme descriptions above for a full breakdown. Should you need anything whilst at the project, remember our local team are always on hand to assist.
Days 8-9 (Saturday-Sunday) - Weekend
The weekends are free for you to explore everything Sri Lanka has to offer. We strongly recommend you check out our organised weekend trips, that offer an action-packed itinerary. If preferred, you can spend your time at the volunteer accommodation and enjoy relaxing on the beaches nearby.
The Following Weeks
Your next week(s) will follow a similar pattern, with volunteering from Monday to Friday and then free time Saturday and Sunday.
Our local team are there to support you throughout your stay. If you need advice about your travel plans or just someone to talk to then they are there for you.
Last Day (Saturday)
On your last week, Saturday is your official last day with The Mighty Roar. If you wish to stay longer then please discuss this option with our local or UK team.
If you are heading home then we can take you back included within the programme fee and costs around £45 per car – this can be split with anyone else travelling south.
Where will I be volunteering in Sri Lanka?
Our volunteer accommodation is conveniently located between Hikkaduwa and Ambalangoda. With the palm tree lined beaches just a 20 second walk across the road, you can spend your evenings relaxing and watching the sunset. Most amenities are a short drive away and are easily accessible by tuk tuk - costing just a few pounds.
Hikkaduwa is a 10 minute drive south and has a string of mellow beach bars and restaurants, good diving and surf schools as well as many activities and excursions. You will spend most of your free time here on the beaches and at the funky bars, leaving the weekends to head further afield!
Ambalangoda is just 6 kilometres in the other direction and is normally overshadowed by Hikkaduwa. Famous for its production of devil masks and dances, there are many random things to see and do. The town has a rich Buddhist history and has the longest sleeping Buddha statue measuring 35 metres.
All amenities are nearby, including ATMs, hospitals, restaurants (serving local and western food), as well as good transport links to the rest of Sri Lanka – including a bus and train station.
What is the weather like in Sri Lanka?
For such a small island, Sri Lanka’s climate is rather complicated! With several different weather patterns bringing monsoons to different parts of the island at different times, it can all seem a little confusing.
However, there is one thing we can be sure of, it’s going to be hot! Being located very close to the equator, its warm tropical climate makes the average year-round temperature of 28 degrees with a humidity level of around 85%!
Our programmes are based on the South West coast of Sri Lanka. You will find the hottest temperatures and the best blue skies between December and March and generally the wettest months are May, June and July - but don’t let this put you off! The rain normally comes in short sharp bursts and after 20-30 minutes everything is back to normal!
As we have all come to expect from living in England, the weather is simply unpredictable. You should expect both rain and sunshine, no matter what time of the year you head to Sri Lanka.
One thing you can be sure of, Sri Lanka is a great place to visit no matter what the weather is doing!
What is the dress code at the projects?
We ask that all volunteers take the approach of a smart and responsible image during your time in the communities and on projects. It is best to also take some older clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.
Generally, it is best to avoid tight and very short clothing and anything that may have offensive slogans on it. It's recommended that you take some nicer clothes for weekends or any free time you may have.
We do not wish to impose strict regulations, however we do ask that you respect the local culture and do your best to adhere to the clothing guidelines within the volunteer handbook.
Are there any public holidays that would affect the project?
We aim to communicate as clearly and accurately as possible all holidays that may affect project availability and closures. However, holidays can often be sporadic or prone to change. We ask that you be flexible with regards to holidays and generally a holiday would offer a unique experience to enjoy in the festivities. Some programmes may not be affected by certain holidays, so if you would like to confirm any details please just let us know.
When there is a major holiday that may affect your programme for a pro-longed duration, we will do our best to ensure that our standard start dates are amended and all volunteers are made aware of this. Our local team are often able to organise community classes during school holidays and although these are less formal, it's still a great way to help make a positive difference within the community.
How do I arrange my flights to Sri Lanka?
You will need to arrange your flights to and from your chosen destination and we will happily assist wherever required. When you first sign up to volunteer with The Mighty Roar you will gain access to your pre-departure volunteer handbook that will have all of the important arrival and departure details, including correct airports, dates and times.
We recommend using a flight comparison website like Sky Scanner. Not only will you be able to see the range of prices, but you can also see what airline and route / duration is best for your requirements and budget. Although we recommend booking your flights as early as possible to help ensure you secure the best price and required dates, it can also help to monitor the price over the course of a few weeks to see what the average is.
There may also be times when changing your flight dates by a day or two provides substantial savings, so this is always worth checking and bearing in mind. We may not be able to accommodate you within the volunteer accommodation outside of your selected dates, but can provide hotel recommendations etc...
If you are unsure about anything regarding your flights then please just get in contact with us. We are more than happy to check over your preferred flights to ensure they are correct with the requirements of your programme before you book them.
We strongly recommend that you do not make any flight and / or third party travel arrangements until your place has been confirmed via email by The Mighty Roar. Please note that we cannot accept standby flights, all flight details provided to us must be fully confirmed.
Do you offer travel insurance?
Whether you are travelling for 1 week or 6 months, having adequate travel insurance that covers your entire duration abroad is an essential and compulsory part of your adventure. Although The Mighty Roar does everything in their power to ensure each and every trip is safe, inevitably things can and do go wrong. Therefore, having a travel insurance policy in place will help you with any problems you may encounter during your time away.
We have teamed up with Endsleigh to create an affordable and comprehensive travel insurance policy specifically for The Mighty Roar volunteers. You can be safe in the knowledge that you have full protection if needed and that our polices cover all of your volunteering activities.
If you would like to purchase your travel insurance through TMR then you can easily add this on when applying under the optional extras page. Alternatively, you can contact us today to add this onto your existing application. Please do not contact Endsleigh directly, as they will be unable to assist.
We recommend that you organise your travel insurance as soon as you confirm your place. This will ensure that your pre-departure cancellation starts from the day you are accepted and will cover you should you have to cancel your trip for an insured reason (such as illness).
You should ensure that your travel insurance covers you for the total duration of your trip i.e. from when you depart your home country to the day you return. It is important to note that our travel insurance is inclusive of your start and end date. For example, if you are volunteering for one week, from Saturday to Saturday, this is in actual fact 8 days and you will need to take out 2 weeks insurance to be fully covered.
For further information about our travel insurance, please click here.
How do I obtain a criminal background check?
In order for you to participate in any of our volunteering programmes, you will need to present to us a clean criminal background check (also known as a DBS or Police Check). This must be submitted and approved no less than 21 days prior to your programme start date. A criminal background check is a mandatory requirement for all volunteers aged 16 and over. We are unable to provide any exceptions to this, which is why it is important that you apply for one as soon as possible – at least 6 weeks prior to your start date.
If you already have a criminal background check that has been issued within 18 months of your programme start date, then you are more than welcome to provide this.
If you don't have a valid DBS check then you will need to apply for one. UK volunteers need to apply for a "Basic Disclosure" through the government website here. This costs £23 and can take up to 15 working days to process.
For international participants, we recommend you obtain a Police/Criminal Background Check through your local police station or official governmental body.
When will I receive my volunteer handbook?
All volunteers will receive a comprehensive volunteer handbook that provides all of the information you need to prepare for your upcoming trip. This includes details on what to pack, how to obtain a visa, what to expect and so much more. With this in mind, it is really important that you read through the volunteer handbook carefully.
You will receive your volunteer handbook once you have confirmed your place by paying the registration fee. We will send an email entitled 'Welcome to TMR', which will include a link to your online account where you can access the handbook and other important details. Please note, all material is sent via email and hard copies cannot be sent.
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