Working with Children in Kyoto and Tokyo

In Japan, there are various opportunities for volunteer work and unpaid internships to support children in different educational environments:

Alternative Schools in Kyoto: About one to two percent of Japanese children leave the state school system, which is often considered authoritarian and places high pressure on academic performance, discipline, and conformity. Free Schools offer a more flexible and individualized learning environment that is tailored to the needs of the students. Their focus is on emotional well-being and social development rather than academic competition. As a volunteer, you informally support the lessons. You involve students in creative projects, games, and outdoor activities to promote social interaction and personal growth. You have a lot of freedom to bring in your own skills and preferences (e.g., sports, music, crafts, theater, experiments, computer games, technology). The most important thing is to create a safe and supportive space where students can build self-confidence. In addition, you enrich the students through your foreign cultural perspective, using the English language.

After-School Care (Gakudos) in Tokyo: Gakudos are non-profit organizations that offer a safe, fun, and learning-oriented environment for children (approx. 3-10 years old) whose parents often work long hours. Here, children do their homework, play games, do sports, have snacks, and learn English. Events and excursions take place regularly. Volunteer placements are possible in several Gakudos in central Tokyo. You assist staff with childcare, teach English, converse with the children in English, and plan and execute events. Working in an international preschool or international kindergarten is also possible. Due to qualified staff, this placement is also suitable for educational internships.

The service package includes the organization of the placement, preparatory documents, intercultural training, on-site support, assistance with mobile phone contracts, accompaniment to the placement on the first day, participation in meetups and cultural events, and much more. Prices include the service package and accommodation in a shared room. Other types of accommodation are also possible (see below).