Latvia: ESC: Volunteering in school and permaculture garden

About the local hosting organization

Ikšķile Free school is a school established and run by parents who pooled their ideas and resources together to create a modern, child friendly school which is useful for community. School highly values freedom, nature, community and Latvian traditions. School uses holistic approach in personal development and we believe that human by nature is good and capable for self expression and it is important to accept any person the way she/he is and respect unique experience of everybody. Motivation of person is very important and interaction with community is equally important for person to fulfill her/his potential. Holistic approach in personal development emphasizes the importance to develop all aspects of your being: spiritual, intellectual, physical and emotional. School provides education for children ages 2-12 and it is a community center providing educational and cultural events.

Presentation of the programme

Ikšķile Free School is a place where people come together to create positive change. Our community is made up of active, responsible and enterprising people who do not wait for others to make things happen — we look for solutions, take action and create new opportunities for children, families and the wider community. At our school, we deeply value freedom, nature, community, sustainable living and Latvian traditions. We use a holistic approach to personal development and believe that every person is naturally good, capable of growth, self-expression and meaningful contribution. It is important for us to accept each person as they are, to respect their unique experience and to create an environment where everyone can feel a sense of belonging. We are offering: -Interesting work with kids -Pocket money -Place to live -Healthy vegetarian lunch -Fantastic experience working outdoors - Duration - 8-10 months

About the accomodation

We are located near the city Ogre (Latvia), the living will be in the near city Ikšķile, which is 30km from capital (Riga), you will need to arrange yourself breakfast and dinner than can be made in the apartment, but vegetarian lunch will be provided at school every day. We will give you a bicycle with witch you can come to school on a bike trail next to a river. In winter you will take the bus to school.

About the leisure activities

There will be arrival and midterm training. In addition there will be language (latvian) training. Our personal will be happy to teach any skills and knowledge needed for tasks. You will be welcomed to learn new skills.

Requirements

The Participant profile: We are looking for an open-minded and responsible volunteer who enjoys working with children, spending time in nature and being part of a community. The volunteer should be kind, patient, flexible and willing to support children in learning, play, creative activities and outdoor work. Interest in sustainability, gardening and hands-on activities is highly appreciated. Basic English language skills are necessary for everyday communication. Previous experience with children is welcome, but motivation, curiosity and willingness to learn are most important.Deadline: 31/08/2026 00:00