Conditions, timings and fees

Conditions

VAE has a responsibility towards those we serve. We are therefore looking for:

• A minimum of three good 'A' Levels or equivalent
• Extra Curricular interests and talents: sport, drama, music, theatre
• A responsible attitude: We take up two references
• We interview everyone in person to make sure you know what you are letting yourself in for, and to make sure you like our ethos
• Rural Kenya is fairly "physical" therefore only certain disabilities are practicable

VAE Kenya has a duty of care not just to you the Volunteer but also to the children and community you serve. Throughout we stress the necessity for a responsible attitude, but reserve the right to send you home should we think you are endangering yourself or those you are in contact with. VAE exists to help young people not punish them; common sense dictates the rules.

Timings

VAE recommends that you try to stay in Kenya for a full six months, but as a small and personal organisation we can be very flexible as to your comings and goings. We prefer Volunteers to come just before or at the beginning of school terms:

• September (usually three/four months)
• January (usually six months - beginning of Kenyan school year)
• May (usually three months)
• Tell us your requirements

Fees

VAE is aware that the majority of Volunteers need to work to raise money for their assignment, but we do request a £100 deposit on booking after interview.

Payment is usually in two instalments: two months before departure and two weeks before departure.

This covers:

• All UK expenses, interviews, telephone calls and information
• Rent for your accommodation
• Basic Living "salary" (We will give you back the wage of a locally employed teacher which should cover food and all living needs)
• Basic Furniture and linen for your house
• Food, cleaning materials for when you first come to your house
• Arranging a Housegirl
• Transport from Nairobi airport to Gilgil
• Transport to your house and school
• Subsequent school visits
• Induction period when you arrive at the Green House
• Follow up safety sessions particularly on how to travel at the Green House
• The odd party!
• Payment of school fees for VAE "family" and for street children projects
• Providing you with anything reasonable you may need
• A base at the Green House should you fall ill, have visitors, just want help
• 24 hour assistance from the local VAE team and a very personal service

In brief this should cover everything to set you up in Kenya and to allow you to live at a commensurate level with those you work. You should need no extra money except for your personal luxuries and for when you want to travel.

It does not cover:

• Your personal travel
• "Luxurious" living above your "basic salary"

We are happy to advise and help you book your flights and insurance.

VAE COSTS (Excluding Flight, Visa and Insurance)

Contact us for more information or apply online