About

Eurajoki Folk High School (Eurajoen opisto – EKO) is an adult education institute that offers a diverse range of educational programs and courses, such as basic education, vocational education, and advanced education and continuing training. The school is dedicated to fostering community spirit, solidarity, and mutual respect while providing students with meaningful learning experiences.

EKO provides high-quality education and welfare services to students of different ages and backgrounds, promoting lifelong learning and active citizenship. The institute offers a wide variety of programs, from music education and boat building to Finnish language courses. The curriculum emphasizes autonomous learning, community engagement, and student participation.

Location

Eurajoki is a small countryside town in southwestern Finland, with a population of approximately 10,000. The nearest city, Rauma, is about 20 km away, with good bus connections available. The EKO campus is vibrant during the weekdays but quieter on weekends when many students return home.

Accomodation

Volunteers will stay in one of the student dormitory buildings on campus. The dormitories house around 50–60 students during the weekdays. Volunteers will have a room in a shared dormitory, usually a double room with private toilet and shower facilities. Common areas such as kitchens, saunas, and recreational spaces are also available.

Meals are provided in the campus restaurant on weekdays (breakfast, lunch, and a takeaway dinner). On weekends and holidays, volunteers will receive a food package to cook for themselves.

Volunteer’s Tasks

Volunteers will be integrated into the school community and assist in organizing both educational and leisure activities for adult students. At EKO, volunteers can immerse themselves in Finnish language and culture while developing their skills and contributing to the school’s community. Working with a diverse group of students, including teenagers with learning challenges and students from immigrant backgrounds. The students range in age from 16 to middle-aged adults.
The tasks may include:

• Supporting teachers and students in lessons, including supervising group assignments, assisting students needing extra support, and engaging in learning games. The volunteers may support the students in leisure-time activities, too.
• Helping in food services by assisting with meal preparation, baking, cleaning the kitchen, and washing dishes.
• Assisting with property maintenance tasks such as cleaning, laundry, yard work, and furnishing.
• Participating in Finnish language courses.

Volunteer’s Requirements

Volunteers should have good social skills, an open-minded attitude, and the ability to interact with people of various ages and from various cultural backgrounds. A proactive approach, willingness to take initiative, and the ability to support practical tasks – such as kitchen work, gardening, or maintenance – are highly valued. Since Eurajoki is a small town, independence and the ability to network and organize activities during weekends are essential.

Child Protection

Please note that you will be required to sign ICYE’s policy Care to Engage on Safeguarding Children.