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Presentation Volunteer Programme (PVP)

What is the PVP?

The Presentation Volunteer Programme (PVP) provides volunteering opportunities to experienced, professional teachers, committed to Christian Values, who want to work with local communities in the developing world.

Read the PVP Information Brochure (pdf)

What is the purpose of PVP?

Our aim is to provide our volunteers with the opportunity to share their skills with local communities while enriching their personal and spiritual lives.

We hope that our volunteers develop positive, professional working relationships that are based on solidarity and mutual respect.

Who can apply?

We are looking for qualified and experienced Primary and Secondary school teachers to work with students in Northern Ghana and in the West Indies. At present our Volunteer Placements are in Northern Ghana and in St. Lucia, West Indies as each of these places have a community of Presentation Brothers already working with the local community.

Is there an age limit?

To apply for a placement you must be at least 21 years of age.

What are the requirements for a volunteer?

Our placements are filled by people who...

Are sympathetic and compassionate towards disadvantaged young people.
Are committed to the empowerment of young people.
Work well in a team.
Have a sense of humour and be adaptable.
Are committed to Christian values and principles.
Commit to volunteering for the duration of the placement.
Appreciate the strengths and values of the host country.
Are willing to engage fully with local people while on placement with an open mind.

Where do volunteers work?

In St. Lucia, volunteers work in a project called CARE (Centre for Adolescent Renewal and Education) which is an alternative education project for young people who have dropped out of the formal school system. In Ghana, volunteers usually work on education projects in local schools.

Can I talk to someone if I'm interested?

For more details get in touch with the director of our Youth Ministry office, Katherine Barry, T 021-4654000 E katherine.e.barry@gmail.com or by post at Young Adult Ministry Office, Presentation Brothers, Mt. St. Joseph, Blarney St., Cork.

How long can I volunteer for?

Placements on the Presentation Volunteer Programme are an academic year in length. Placements begin in Late august and end in July the following year.

Is any training provided?

Participation in a short course provided by the Presentation Brothers is required, as is attendance at a week-long induction course in Dublin.

The placement begins with a weeklong orientation programme in the overseas community.

What about the practicalities of travel, insurance and visas?

The cost of flights to and from the placement, as well as, health and accident insurance is covered by the funding grant the Presentation Brothers organise before the Volunteers departure. Assistance will be given with visa applications where necessary.

Will I be paid?

Volunteers are given a monthly allowance. This is used to pay for accommodation, food and living expenses.

Where will I stay?

Volunteers are assisted in finding suitable accommodation.

What about health issues?

An offer of a place on the programme is made subject to a satisfactory medical report and a medical check-up is required on return to Ireland.

What happens when I return home?

All returned volunteers are expected to take part in our de-briefing programme on return to Ireland.