Description of the organisation

The “WIKILEWE” - school combines a pre-school group of 5 children (ages 4-7) and a school group of 10 children (ages 8-14).

The school was founded in 2003 by an association of several parents. Its aim is to provide a learning environment for self-determined learning following the studies and experiences of Maria Montessori, Rebecca and Mauricio Wild, Jean Piaget and others.

Our parents raise money, care for house and garden, provide organic food, and support the teacher team in their daily work.

Different kinds of project work, excursions or hands-on training sessions are part of our learning environment.

There are four part-time teachers, all well-trained in Montessori pedagogics, who are regularely supported by parents.

Our mini-school is unique in Salzburg and the surrounding area – small is beautiful!

Project Environment

Our school is situated in Salzburg/Austria. Salzburg is a small town (140 000 inhabitants), located between Alpine mountains and beautiful lakes. Our town is well known for Mozart, “The Sound of Music”, and the Salzburg Summer Festival, but there is even more around: a proper system of public transport, about 12 000 student and a roaring nightlife, and very nice people all over the place. The nicest of all have joined our school.

Proposed activities for EVS volunteers

There are weekly team meetings, weekly “open house parties” alternating at parents' homes and monthly gatherings of parents and teachers.

The role of the volunteer is to assist our staff in preparing and supervising learning activities.

The volunteer is asked to support our team with excursions, workshops and other outdoor activities.

We would love to see you bringing in your culture, your hobbies, your likes and your way of life.

Special needs

Sorry, we are not able to host volunteers with fewer opportunities, since our premises are not adapted for people with fewer opportunities. Beyond that we are not able to provide special assistance.

Risk prevention, protection and safety

Applicants should be aged over 18 since we cannot provide any additional assistance.

Motivation and EVS Experience

This is our first attempt to involve a European Volunteer in our learning environment.

Our main motivation is to integrate intercultural and international aspects into our learning project.

Furthermore we want to generate solidarity and tolerance among young people.

A volunteer could start September 2010. The engagement would end in June 2011.

The volunteer will work 30 hours per week at our school.