Indra. 19 years old. Netherlands.
I had the opportunity to spend five weeks working as a volunteer in Rabat, Morocco. I applied because I wanted to learn about a different culture and to work with children. Morocco seemed like a wonderful country to me, because of its fascinating history and as preparation for my future studies. The volunteering project involved teaching English to children and adults. During my stay, I lived with a Moroccan family in the medina of Rabat. In this article, I’ll explain what my daily routine was like during those five weeks.
In the morning, I usually have breakfast with the family, consisting of delicious homemade pancakes and mint tea, then I walk to the Women’s Centre in Rabat. I already prepare my lesson for them the night before. I was free to choose which aspect of the English language I wanted to teach, so I often asked the women – and the few men – which topics they need help with. This way, I keep the lessons as engaging and understandable as possible for them. I really enjoy being able to create my own lessons in this way. We often spend the first hour of the lesson explaining new grammar or revising a previous grammar lesson. In the second hour, we practise that grammar or play an English game. One of my favourite moments was when, after explaining something new, I’d see the penny drop. Their happiness is such a joy to see! There was also time for a friendly chat with each other. This created a lovely group. I therefore looked forward to going to the centre every day.
At noon, I head back home to have lunch with the family. The family cooks delicious food and there was a different authentic Moroccan dish on the menu every day. Afterwards, I prepare my lesson for the centre in Salé, Rabat’s neighbouring town, where I teach English to children aged between 8 and 14. Here, I had to be a lot more flexible, as the children’s needs varied from day to day. I work alongside other volunteers. We often play English games with the children that involve a lot of movements. The children are at very different levels in English, which mean that they also help each other to understand the lesson. They are very active and enthusiastic!
After the lessons, I had some leisure time. We often went into the medina in a small group to do some shopping or have a drink somewhere. In the evening, I had another lovely meal at the family’s home.
At the weekend I was free and got the chance to explor a lot of Rabat, either on my own or with a small group. I visited the Kasbah of the Oudayas, the Chellah, the Hassan Tower, the souk, various museums and the beach. I’d also taken surfing lessons and went surfing a few times in Rabat. In this way, I got to know Rabat and the local customs really well.
I found it an absolutely fantastic time and learnt a lot, both about Moroccan culture as well as practical skills. Furthermore, I discovered that I really enjoy teaching. I can highly recommend this volunteering project to anyone who enjoys working with children and adults and immersing themselves in different customs and traditions.