Virtual English Teacher to Saharawi Refugees

Sandblast Arts Background

Founded in 2005, Sandblast is a volunteer-led London-based charity committed to empowering and uplifting the voices of the Saharawi refugees of Western Sahara. Our mission is to raise global awareness of their struggle for self-determination through skills-training, educational programmes, and the arts. We envision a world where the Saharawi story is recognized, and their culture preserved and celebrated.

What We Do

At Sandblast, we believe in the transformative power of creativity and community engagement. Our primary project, Desert Voicebox, is located in the Boudjour refugee camp in Algeria. Launched in 2016, it is a pioneering after-school programme where local teachers are trained by our volunteers to provide English and music education to primary school children. Desert Voicebox remains the only programme in the camps offering extracurricular learning that fosters self-expression, language skills, and educational growth.

Why work with Sandblast?

Volunteering with Sandblast offers a meaningful opportunity to work within underserved communities, gain hands-on experience, and directly impact the lives of Saharawi children and educators in challenging environments. Our volunteers bring creativity, dedication, and a passion for social change to every role, helping to foster a sense of empowerment and cultural pride in the refugee camps. Join us to be part of a mission that harnesses creativity and solidarity to uplift the Saharawi people.

Virtual English Teacher Role Overview

The virtual English Teacher will work one-on-one with one of our Level 4 English students (ages 11-14) or one of the local woman who work in our Desert Voicebox after-school learning programme, focusing on improving conversational, listening, and comprehension skills. The DV students typically have a beginner level English and the DV teachers typically have a B1 level (low intermediate) in English.

Key Responsibilities:

• Teach English language skills, focusing on conversational skills and touching on reading and writing abilities.
• Utilize real world situations and role plays to teach a practical use of English
• Adapt lessons to meet the skill level of the DV student or local women.
• Foster a supportive, engaging learning environment to encourage skill development.

Qualifications:

• Experience teaching English to adults or children, preferably on a one-to-one basis
• TEFL/TESL certification
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic teaching environment
• Expert level fluency in English

Time Commitment:

• 45 minute sessions, two to three times a week
• 15-30 minutes per week spent planning the lessons
• mid April -July 5th

How to Apply:

Please email us at sandblast.outreach@gmail.com with your CV/resume and a few sentences about why you think you'd be a good fit for this role. We look forward to hearing from you!