Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children program (1-12 Weeks) is an important and rewarding task. It provides them with the opportunity to learn a valuable language, which can open up many doors for them in the future. It also helps to bridge the cultural divide between Palestine and other countries, by providing a common language that everyone can understand.
Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children program is not only beneficial for them, but it also helps build bridges of understanding between different cultures. With this knowledge, they can develop a better understanding of their own culture as well as those around them. By teaching English to Palestinian children, we are helping create a brighter future for generations to come.
What is the importance of learning English to children in Palestine?
Learning English is of great importance to children in Palestine for several reasons. Firstly, English is the language of international communication, and mastering it can open up a world of opportunities for Palestinian children in terms of education, employment, and travel. Secondly, English language proficiency can give Palestinian children an advantage in accessing higher education and better-paying jobs in the global economy. Additionally, learning English can foster intercultural communication and understanding, enabling Palestinian children to connect with people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Finally, English proficiency can be a means of empowerment for Palestinian children, giving them the ability to express themselves confidently and assert their rights in an increasingly globalized world. Overall, learning English is crucial for the development and success of Palestinian children, both personally and professionally.
Where will the program be held?
Our Volunteer Program takes place in the heart of Palestine, in the city of Hebron. Hebron, Al-Khalil in Arabic, is located in the southern part of the West Bank. It is 30 km (19 miles) south of Jerusalem. The population of Hebron is about 300,000 persons who reside in the city, and about another 500,000 who live in the surrounding villages.
How long can I join the program?
Our volunteers can choose to participate in the program for a period of one to 12 weeks. Whatever length of time you choose, we will support you so that you have a great and unique experience at our center and in this wonderful city of Hebron.
Is there a specific day I need to start the program?
No, there is no requirement to begin the program on a specific day of the week. You have the flexibility to start whenever it suits you best, whether that’s Saturday, Monday, Thursday, or any other day. The program is designed to accommodate your schedule, so you can choose a starting day that works best for your routine and preferences. There’s no set starting point or restriction on when you can begin.
What are the advantages of Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children?
- Participate in activities and interact with Palestinian children, teachers, and other volunteers.
- Engaging in the Palestinian community, culture, and daily life
- Experience true life in Palestine and what it means to be a Palestinian.
- Accommodation, including either staying with a local host family or at our 8th-floor apartment. Private accommodation is also available with extra fees.
- Daily Palestinian breakfast.
- Three hours of Arabic lessons per week – Two classes/1,5 hours a class.
- Local visits to different places e.g. old city, and meeting with Palestinian families in Hebron city.
- Day Trips to refugee camps in Hebron & Bethlehem and some areas of political importance.
- At the completion of the program, you will get a participation certificate and a recommendation letter.
The Struggles and Resilience of Palestinian Children in Education
Palestinian children make up a significant portion of the population, with over 40% of Palestinians under the age of 15. Despite their potential, many face significant challenges in accessing quality education due to political and economic hardships. In the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip, schools often operate under difficult conditions, such as overcrowded classrooms, inadequate infrastructure, and limited resources.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing conflict, with frequent disruptions caused by military activities, restrictions on movement, and occasional school demolitions in certain areas. In Gaza, the blockade has exacerbated these challenges, leaving many schools operating in double or triple shifts to accommodate all students. Despite these obstacles, Palestinian children and their families prioritize education, viewing it as a vital tool for empowerment and a pathway to a brighter future amidst adversity.
Teach English to Palestinian Kids (Ages 8-16)
Join this rewarding program where you’ll help Palestinian children and teens, aged 8 to 16, improve their English conversational skills. You’ll lead or assist in group sessions designed to encourage natural, everyday conversations in a friendly and supportive environment. The focus is on practical communication rather than formal lessons.
No teaching experience is required—just a willingness to make a difference! All the materials and resources you need will be provided, allowing you to focus on inspiring confidence and building meaningful connections with the students. It’s a fantastic opportunity to support their learning journey while immersing yourself in the rich Palestinian culture.
What Other Opportunities Are Available for Volunteers Besides Teaching English?
- As a volunteer, you can host workshops, seminars, or lectures on subjects you’re passionate about. Whether at the University of Hebron or our community center, we’ll support you in organizing every detail.
- We’ll coordinate with the University or arrange the event at our center, ensuring it reaches local Palestinian participants. These sessions can be flexible in duration—lasting one, two, or three days, or tailored to your availability. Our team will handle announcements, logistics, and participant coordination, so you can focus on delivering valuable content.
- Our center is fully equipped with essential tools, including a screen, projector, whiteboard, laptop, and more. You’ll have everything you need to create a meaningful and engaging experience.
Write and Publish Articles About Palestine – (Optional)
Writing and publishing articles about Palestine on our website can play a crucial role in raising awareness and helping the region gain recognition on a global scale. By sharing stories, historical insights, and current realities from a compassionate and informed perspective, writers can bridge gaps in understanding.
If you’re not from Palestine, your voice can offer a unique perspective, highlighting the issue from an outsider’s lens while connecting with a broader audience.
Through a collaborative approach, you can also encourage others to share their narratives, research, or reflections. This helps amplify diverse voices and creates a space for dialogue, advocacy, and education.
Learn Arabic While Volunteering in Palestine – Personalized Classes
Volunteering in Palestine offers a unique chance to learn Arabic while actively contributing to the local community. You can choose between Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) or Levantine Arabic, depending on your personal goals and preferences. Classes consist of three weekly hours, split into two sessions, ensuring a balanced learning experience. By combining volunteering with Arabic lessons, you’ll gain cultural insights, practical skills, and valuable community connections.
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA)
Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is the formal version of Classical Arabic, widely used in official documents, media, and literature across the Arab world. While it’s not commonly spoken in casual conversations, it serves as a universal language for academic and professional contexts.
Palestinian/Shami (Levantine) Arabic
Levantine Arabic, spoken by over 42 million people across Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria, is the primary dialect for everyday communication in the region. Despite regional variations, it is mutually understandable across the Levant, making it an excellent choice for daily conversations and cultural immersion.
Live with a Palestinian Host Family
Staying with a Palestinian host family offers a unique cultural immersion experience. It allows you to learn the language naturally and gain a deeper understanding of Palestinian culture and daily life. You’ll experience their traditions, values, and warm hospitality, making your stay both enriching and memorable. It’s also a wonderful opportunity to build meaningful connections and develop a genuine appreciation for Palestinian life.
Explore Refugee Camps on Day Trips
We offer guided day trips to refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem. These visits provide a firsthand look at the lives of refugees, offering insight into their daily challenges and extraordinary resilience. It’s an eye-opening experience that deepens empathy, broadens your perspective, and fosters a greater understanding of their stories and struggles.
City Tours in Hebron
Our program includes guided tours of Hebron, where you’ll explore historical landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, each with a unique story to tell. You’ll gain insight into both the city’s rich history and contemporary life. Additionally, visits to local factories will give you an understanding of Hebron’s economy and traditional craftsmanship. This comprehensive city tour provides a well-rounded perspective of Hebron’s culture and daily life.
Cook Authentic Palestinian Dishes Together
Join us for a culinary adventure as you learn to prepare authentic Palestinian dishes alongside locals. This hands-on experience is more than just cooking—it’s about sharing stories, building connections, and savoring the unique flavors of Palestinian cuisine. It’s an engaging and heartwarming activity that creates lasting memories and fosters genuine cultural connections.
Explore Beyond Hebron: Two Days Off Weekly
We believe in balancing work and exploration, which is why we offer two days off each week for you to explore other parts of Palestine. Discover iconic cities like Bethlehem, Nablus, Ramallah, Jericho, and Jerusalem. These days are your chance to travel freely, experience diverse cultures, and create unforgettable memories, ensuring a well-rounded and enriching journey beyond Hebron.
200+ Reviews from Past Participants – Gold verified by Go Overseas!
To learn more about the experiences of participants with “Go Palestine,” you can explore reviews on well-known platforms such as Go Overseas and GoAbroad. The organization has consistently received over 200 positive reviews on both websites combined from volunteers and interns worldwide.
These testimonials showcase the exceptional quality, cultural exchange opportunities, and impactful programs offered by Go Palestine. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, internships, or Arabic language courses, these reviews offer valuable insights into the organization’s dedication to providing meaningful and enriching experiences.
What does your weekly schedule look like?
We at GO Palestine are keen to make your weekly schedule diversified, rich, and organized. Thus, it will contain a number of educational, social, and fun activities that will make your experience in Palestine special and unique.
Breakfast starts at 9:30 am
The day at our center starts with a special Palestinian breakfast at 9:30 in the morning and ends at approximately 10:15. Our breakfast contains a number of ingredients, including Palestinian thyme (Zaatar), labneh, tomato and cucumber slices, falafel, hummus, mortadella, olives, yellow cheese, jam, pita bread, boiled or fried eggs, and French fries. The ingredients are changed (among the mentioned ingredients) from time to time to diversify the breakfast.
The Content of the program starts at 10:30
The program content begins at 10:30 in the morning and runs until 1:30 or 2:00 in the afternoon. This includes teaching conversational English to Palestinians, including school students, university students, and community members. The schedule and specific activities may vary depending on the program you choose, so please make sure to read the program’s description for more details.
Lunch Break starts at 2:00 pm
At 2:00 in the afternoon, the lunch break begins and lasts for an hour. You can choose to buy lunch from a restaurant next to the center, where you’ll find a variety of options including shawarma, falafel, fried chicken, and traditional Palestinian dishes like Maqluba, Hebron’s Qidreh, Chicken Mansaf or Lamb Mansaf, among others. If you prefer to cook, there are also several supermarkets and malls nearby where you can buy ingredients and prepare your own meals in the center’s kitchen.
Arabic Language Classes (MSA and Levantine/Colloquial)
Each week, you will receive two Arabic language classes, each lasting an hour and a half. These classes are taught by one of our skilled and qualified teachers. The Arabic classes are scheduled at various times, typically in the afternoon, though morning sessions are also available. You can choose to study Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial Arabic (Ammiya), or both, depending on your preference.
Day Trips to Refugee Camps in Bethlehem & Hebron
Once a week, a day trip is organized to visit the refugee camps in Hebron and Bethlehem, as well as other areas of political significance whenever the opportunity arises. These trips offer a unique chance to learn about the conditions of Palestinian refugees, engage in conversations with them, and hear their personal stories. The trips depart from the center at 10:45 am and typically conclude around 2:00 or 3:00 in the afternoon.
Local Visits to Learn about the Landmarks of the city of Hebron
Every two weeks, local visits are organized to explore the historical and economic landmarks of the city of Hebron. These visits include stops at the Ibrahimi Mosque, the Old City, and Al-Shuhada Street, as well as tours of several factories in the city, including those specializing in keffiyeh, glass, and ceramics.
Prepare & Cook a Traditional Palestinian Dish
Every two to three weeks, all our volunteers, interns, and Arabic language students come together to prepare and cook a traditional Palestinian dish. This hands-on activity includes preparing appetizers, frying vegetables, cooking rice, chopping chicken or meat, and stuffing vegetables, depending on the dish of the day. It’s a fun and engaging way to experience Palestinian cuisine and build connections with fellow participants.
Free Time starts at 16:00 or at 16:30
After your time at the center, you’ll have free time to relax and enjoy the evening. You can hang out with other international participants or locals you’ve met during your stay in Hebron, whether by visiting a café or coffee shop or spending time at a park. The center is located on one of the busiest streets in the city, so there are plenty of cafes and parks nearby to explore and unwind.
The Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children’s Fees
What does the Participation Fee include?
| Accommodation | Host family or at our 8th-floor apartment Private accommodation is available with extra fees |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Two Classes/ 1,5 hours of Arabic lessons each |
| Meals | Daily Palestinian breakfast |
| Day Trips | To refugee camps in Hebron & Bethlehem & some areas of political importance |
| Sightseeing | Historical & politically important places in the city of Hebron |
| Certificate | Certificate of participation & recommendation letter at the end of the program |
When should you arrive to begin your program?
We suggest arriving in Palestine a day before your program starts to help you settle in and prepare for your experience. You are also welcome to stay an extra day after the program ends to ensure a relaxed and smooth departure.
What visa do you need to volunteer in Palestine?
To volunteer in Palestine, you will need an Israeli tourist visa that allows a stay of up to 3 months. Acquiring a volunteer visa directly in Palestine can be difficult.
Visa Requirements for Palestine
If you’re from a country with a visa exemption agreement with Israel, you can obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv) or the Allenby-King Hussein Bridge crossing. Citizens of countries like the United States and European nations are typically granted a three-month visa valid for 90 days.
If your home country does not have an exemption agreement with Israel, you must apply for a visa from the Israeli embassy or consulate in your home country before visiting. Israel now issues visas on a separate card with a barcode, avoiding passport stamps as some Arab countries do not accept Israeli passport stamps. Ensure you confirm whether your country participates in a visa exemption agreement.
What if your passport isn’t suitable for a tourist visa?
Individuals from countries like Pakistan and India must obtain a visa from the Israeli embassy in their home country to volunteer in Palestine. This can be a challenging process, as Israel controls all entry points, making it a prerequisite to secure the visa before applying for the volunteer program.
Is the West Bank safe for volunteering?
Yes, the West Bank is generally safe for volunteering. Most incidents or conflicts tend to occur in areas far from the main city centers where most volunteer programs are held. Cities such as Hebron, Bethlehem, and Ramallah maintain a stable and secure environment for volunteers.
The local community is often welcoming and supportive, which enhances the overall sense of safety. We do recommend that participants stay updated on local news and follow any guidance from their hosts to ensure personal safety.
Is prior experience a requirement for volunteering in Palestine?
No, prior experience is not required to volunteer in Palestine. Our programs are open to individuals of all backgrounds, whether or not you have previous volunteering experience. We focus on creating a supportive environment where everyone can contribute, learn, and make a positive impact.
What matters most to us is your enthusiasm and commitment. Our team is dedicated to guiding and supporting you throughout your volunteer journey, whether you’re an experienced volunteer or this is your first time. We welcome you to join us in making a positive difference in this inspiring region.
Do I need to know how to speak Arabic?
No, volunteers are not required to know Arabic before joining. The center will provide 3 hours of Arabic lessons each week with one of our qualified teachers. Participants can choose to study Modern Standard Arabic (Fusha) or Spoken Arabic (Ammiya) once they begin their program.
Can I add more Arabic hours to my program?
Volunteers have the option to add extra Arabic language lessons to their program. These additional lessons are available at a cost of $20.00 per hour and are designed to offer a more in-depth understanding of the language and culture. If you wish to add extra lessons, please mention this in your application so we can arrange it in advance.
| Place of the Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children Program | Hebron (H1 – Under Palestinian Control), Palestine |
| Age | 18-75 Years Old |
| Minimum Period | One Week |
| Maximum Period | Three Months – 12 Weeks |
| Volunteering Hours | 4-5 hours a day – 5 days a week |
| Starting/Ending Dates | Flexible – Anytime |
| Application Deadline | No Deadline |
| Program Language | English |
| Days off | Two days including Fridays & Thursdays or Saturdays |
| Arabic Lessons | 3 Hours a Week – Standard Arabic Or Ammiya |
| Educational Degree | Not Required |
| University Credit | Available |
Is it possible to combine this program with another program?
Yes, you can combine this program with one or more of the other internship or volunteer programs offered by the center. For example, you can spend one week or more completing this program and then combine it with additional weeks of another program.
Can I extend the term of my program while I’m there?
Yes, it is possible to extend your program while you’re in Palestine. To do so, you must inform the center coordinator at least one week before the end of your current program to make the necessary arrangements.
Things to know before visiting Palestine!
| Living Costs in Palestine | Approx. 50-70$ a Week |
| Weekend in Palestine | On Friday |
| Food in Palestine | The West Bank engages primarily in heavier meals involving the use of bread, rice, and meat, and coastal plain inhabitants frequent fish, other seafood, and lentils. |
| Wifi Access in Palestine | At houses, cafes, restaurants – Almost everywhere |
| 3G Service in Palestine | Available since Jan 2018 |
| The official language in Palestine | Arabic – Palestinian Dialect (One of the Levantine dialects) |
| Currency in Palestine | Mainly Israeli Shekel (NIS). Jordanian Dinar & American Dollars are also used in buying Real estate and land. |
| Transportations in Palestine | Yellow Taxies & Orange Mini-Vans |
| Weather in Palestine | Summer (25-30°C), Winter (0-9°C) |
| Nearest Major Airports to Palestine | Ben Gurion Airport in Israel if you travel via Israel Alia International Airport if you travel via Jordan |
The Documents you’ll receive from us!
When you join us, you’ll receive a comprehensive set of documents to ensure a smooth and well-informed experience. Our travel guide will include detailed instructions on how to reach us in Hebron, along with the best available transportation options.
In addition, you’ll receive a weekly schedule booklet, outlining the activities and events planned for each day, helping you make the most of your time. To assist you in getting acquainted with the local culture and surroundings, we’ll also provide an orientation booklet. This will offer valuable insights into life in Hebron, giving you a deeper understanding of the city and its unique atmosphere.
What can be added to your program? “Add-ons“
- Private apartment available as an add-on for $200 per week or $600–$700 per month.
Would you like to join an online Arabic course before joining us?
Learning Arabic before your arrival can greatly enhance your experience in Palestine. By familiarizing yourself with basic Arabic phrases and cultural expressions, you’ll feel more confident communicating with locals, navigating daily life, and immersing yourself in the rich Palestinian culture.
We’re excited to offer you the chance to start this journey with a free trial, which includes your first class completely free! This is a great opportunity to get a taste of the Arabic language and see how it can enrich your time in Palestine. Click Here for more information!
Who can apply to the Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children program?
- The Palestinian Center has hosted people who have come from a myriad of countries, such as the USA, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Colombia, France, Japan, China, Chile, Switzerland, Russia, Germany, and many more.
- The Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children program is open to all who are between 18 – 75 years old. All people from all countries and majors are welcome to join this program.
- Those who are younger than 18 years old can also apply but with one condition. One of your parents has to fill out and sign a parental consent form.
When will I be able to apply to the Program?
- Our Volunteer program has no deadline, which means that you can apply to the program year-round.
- You are allowed to choose when you want to start and end the program.
- The minimum period of participation in the volunteer program is one week and the maximum amount of time you can volunteer is 12 weeks/three months.
Can I join the program with university funding?
Yes, you can participate in the program with university funding. We will help you complete all necessary paperwork, including providing an invitation letter, a contract, and any other required documents. However, please note that we do not provide any funding, as our programs are supported by the fees from international participants.
Flexible Scheduling with a One-Year Adjustment Window
We understand that convenience is essential when planning your trip to Palestine. That’s why we offer a full year of flexibility to adjust the start of your program and complete freedom in choosing its timing.
Whether you want to begin earlier, extend your stay, or finish sooner, we’re here to meet your needs. Your experience is our top priority, and we’re dedicated to making your journey smooth, personalized, and stress-free.
How do I register or obtain more information?
Please email Mr.Tamimi, at [email protected]. Please type “The Volunteer to Teaching English to Palestinian Children Program” in the subject line. In the body of the email, ask any questions you may have, and request an application. Very shortly, we will reply to you.
What is the procedure for applying?
| Step 1 | Send us an email asking for the application form. |
| Step 2 | You complete the online application and send it in. |
| Step 3 | We invite you to participate in an interview via WhatsApp, Zoom, Google Meet (video or voice call). |
| Step 4 | We will send you a confirmation form which you fill out and return to us. |
| Step 5 | We send you the Invitation Letter, the contract and the invoice. |
| Step 6 | You will sign the contract and make payment in order to reserve your place in the program. |
| Step 7 | We will send you an orientation booklet and travel guide to Palestine. |
Fast-Track Application – Within 3 days!
If you’re looking to join us next week or need to make arrangements on short notice, our fast-track application process is here to help. This efficient option is designed to save you time and make it simple for you to get started without delay.
Through this process, you can easily book your flight, submit your application, participate in a personalized interview, pay the required fees, and confirm your spot—all within three days. Whether you’re in a hurry or excited to start, our fast-track system ensures a seamless and efficient onboarding experience.
