Don Bosco Technical Centre
Available Ministries
- Education
- Vocational
- Electrical
Current Volunteers
Ministry Background
The Centre offers two and four year trades training courses specialising in welding, motor mechanics, woodwork, electronics and plumbing. Recently they have also added a hospitality course that includes cooking and sewing. More than 85% of the graduates secure employment in Samoa and those who migrate to New Zealand and Australia have been able to get work in their trade. Without their years at Don Bosco many of these young men and women would have risked a life-time of vulnerability, poverty and unemployment.
The Centre actively promotes the spiritual and personal development of students, and emphasises participation in cultural and performing arts to enhance students’ self-image and self-esteem. The overall programme has a holistic focus and includes trades training, religious formation, academic studies, and cultural awareness. Significant emphasis is placed on workshop and practical experience, engagement in a variety of sporting and cultural activities and active involvement in opportunities for prayer and liturgy.
Purpose & Objectives
Don Bosco Technical Centre is a Salesian technical school offering technical education and vocation training for young men and women aged 16 – 25 years. The Centre, which is situated on the outskirts of Apia, the capital of Samoa, caters for students who have not previously experienced educational success, providing the opportunity for them to learn a trade through ‘hands-on’ experience.
Programs, Activities, & Other Projects
There are two nearby parishes run by the Salesians of Don Bosco. It is possible to also be active in the youth group and running Sunday school. There is also a kindergarten attached to Singamoga parish. For those that have an interest in early childhood education this can also be an alternative to working in the technical school.
Duties & Responsibilities
Don Bosco Technical Centre needs volunteers to work in the following areas:
– Teaching English as a second language (ESL)
– Teaching business studies and/or religion
– Teaching technical skills for welding, motor mechanics, woodwork, electronics and plumbing
– Co-ordinating after school and weekend tutoring
– Engaging in after school sports and cultural activities
Practical Qualifications/Skills Needed
Previous experience in the classroom and/or working with young people is necessary in order to work as a classroom teacher at Don Bosco Technical Centre.
Useful Academic Preparation
Education and technical degrees.
Useful Experience
Working with young people – particularly those above the age of 15.
Special Challenges/Conditions
Volunteers work as teachers in the technical school. They work in the areas of English, Business Studies and Religion. This is dependent on the skill set and background of the volunteer.
Involvement with the religous community
Area Information
Volunteers work as teachers in the technical school. They work in the areas of English, Business Studies and Religion. This is dependent on the skill set and background of the volunteer.
Involvement with the greater community
There is a lot of opportunity to be involved with the wider community. This happens mostly through connecting with the local community through the local parishes.
Special Challenges & Conditions
English language is necessary for this placement.
Housing & Community
Live with Religious
Room
Daily Eucharist
Bathroom
Launder
There is a washing machine.
Access to ATM
Local Diet
Taro and other Root Vegetables and tropical fruit.
Local Medical Facilities
The main hospital for Samoa is located 15 minutes away from the placement.