About this role
Elementary and Middle School English Teacher
Project Description: English teachers are needed in the South Pacific. Will you help strengthen English language and literacy instruction? Tonga’s education system is vital to the nation’s future, yet many schools face significant challenges in providing effective English instruction. Limited resources and teachers’ varying skills and confidence with the language often hinder learning. Classrooms frequently operate without sufficient books, teaching materials, or opportunities for students to hear fluent English speakers. Strong English proficiency is essential for students to succeed on the competitive exams that determine entry into government high schools. With literacy recognized as a national priority, communities across Tonga are eager for practical support and clear guidance to help their children thrive academically.
As an Elementary and Middle School English Teacher, you will support students to strengthen their language skills while also strengthening the capacity of teachers. You’ll have the chance to lead tutoring sessions, run clubs, and bring learning to life through creative extracurriculars. You’ll strengthen language skills outside the classroom by engaging with families and community members in daily life. Your contributions can open doors for students, strengthen schools from within, and inspire long-term change across the country.
Required Skills: Associate degree in any field and at least two years of full-time, post-high school work experience (from any combination of roles). OR Bachelor's degree in any field. OR High school diploma or GED and four years of full-time post-high school work experience (from any combination of roles).
Living Conditions: Volunteers will either live in a private room within a host family’s home, with a shared bathroom and kitchen, or in an independent house, depending on availability. All Volunteer housing has electricity and running water, except in communities on the more remote outer islands.
Activities: Teach English to improve speaking and writing skills among students. Lead after-school tutoring sessions, clubs, and activities. Coordinate English and literacy promotion activities. Strengthen classroom instruction and share instruction strategies for English and literacy. Design and deliver professional development opportunities for teachers to practice new teaching techniques. Engage parents and community members in student learning. Plan and assist with community-driven school improvement projects. You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s interests and priorities, such as promoting environmental education and organizing youth camps.
Training: As an Elementary and Middle School English Teacher, you will be trained on the student-centered teaching practices, classroom management skills, and community-driven development in education. Peace Corps/Tonga will teach you Tongan to help you comfortably live in and connect with the community.
After 10 weeks of training, you will move to a rural community where you will collaborate with schools, teachers, and a parent-teacher association. You will work with the community to assess the local needs and develop solutions based on student learning needs
Job Highlights: Develop Tongan language skills from skilled Language and Cross-Cultural Facilitators. Strengthen learner-centered teaching skills and teacher coaching skills. Enjoy island life while strengthening school-community partnerships with the friendly people of Tonga.