The EIL Explore International Educator Award gives teachers and other educators an opportunity to learn within another culture and educational community. Through the AFS global network, participants exchange ideas and develop perspectives to share with students and colleagues in Ireland.
Explore education in another setting
Inspired by AFS Educadores con Causa, the award focuses on intercultural understanding and global competence. Discuss teaching practices with educators abroad and reflect on how culture shapes learning and participation.
Share the learning with your educational community
Consider how your experience could support your students, inform conversations with colleagues or contribute to global citizenship learning. Applicants should be interested in making their learning useful beyond their own professional development.
Potential destinations
Potential destinations include Argentina, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, India, Malaysia, Peru and the Philippines. Placements depend on suitability, programme requirements, availability and final confirmation.
Who can apply
The award is open to teachers and other educators over 18. Applications are particularly encouraged from educators working in DEIS schools, those supporting underserved communities and those with limited access to international professional-development opportunities.
Programme details
Duration: Varies by programme.
Travel: Summer in the year of travel, subject to the host programme schedule.
Destination: Potential countries are listed above; no destination is guaranteed.
Accommodation: Arrangements depend on the selected programme.
What the scholarship covers
- Eight-week volunteer programme
- Return flights and insurance
- Accommodation and meals during the volunteer placement
- Pre-departure information and support
- In-country airport transfers, orientation and local coordination and support
Check the current award information for any exclusions or personal expenses before accepting a place.
Preparation and support
Review the placement requirements and discuss preparation with EIL. Use the confirmed programme information to understand the support available before and during travel.
Bring your learning home
On your return, you are required to complete an Action at Home Project. Reflect on your experience and share what you have learned with your community. Your project can build on your interests and the people or activities that shaped your learning.
How to apply
Explain what you hope to learn and how your students, colleagues or wider educational community could benefit.
Volunteering abroad can challenge you in many ways – Read more about what challenging can mean
