In Kampot, many volunteers have already contributed a lot to make it a developing project aimed at providing the children of the community with a complete, stable education full of essential keys to their development.

Cando School works to provide as safe and sustainable an environment as possible for all our students. An important way of doing this is to have as many long-term volunteers as possible. Learning from the same teacher over a longer period of time greatly benefits the students' learning. Long-term tenure also gives volunteers the opportunity to get to know the students and the community much better, which increases their understanding of how best to help.

Volunteers usually come for an average duration of one month, but many of them stay longer or return. Of course, you can stay for a shorter period, but please let us know so that we can discuss it.

Kampot, located in the south of Cambodia, offers a variety of activities for volunteers to enjoy during their weekends. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, there’s something for everyone in this charming region.

Explore the Kampot River
Take a boat trip along the beautiful Kampot River, offering serene views of the surrounding countryside and limestone mountains. You can enjoy a peaceful afternoon on the water or even try kayaking.

Relax by the Tranquil Lake
For those looking for a peaceful escape, Kampot’s serene lakes offer the perfect spot to unwind. Spend a quiet day by the water, surrounded by nature. It’s an ideal place for reading, picnicking, or simply enjoying the calm ambiance. The area is perfect for those seeking a more laid-back experience to recharge.

Visit the Famous Bokor Hill Station
For a scenic and historical experience, head to Bokor Hill Station. The hill station, which was built by the French in the 1920s, is now a ghost town with stunning views over the coastline. It’s a great spot for hiking and photography.

Discover Kep and its Beaches
Just a short drive from Kampot, the coastal town of Kep is known for its beautiful beaches and fresh seafood. You can visit the famous Kep Crab Market, relax on the beach, or hike up to the Kep National Park for amazing views of the coast.

Visit the Pepper Plantations of Kampot
Kampot is famous for its high-quality pepper, and visiting one of the local pepper plantations is a must-do. Learn about the history of Kampot pepper and how it’s grown, harvested, and processed. Many plantations also offer tours where you can walk through the lush green fields, tasting different varieties of pepper and learning about organic farming techniques.

Explore the Salt Fields of Kampot
Visit the salt fields outside Kampot where local workers produce salt using traditional methods. It’s an interesting way to learn about the region’s agricultural practices and enjoy a rural experience.

Trekking in the Kep National Park
For nature lovers, Kep National Park offers various trails through lush forests and hills, with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and countryside.

Cultural Tours and Local Markets
Discover the rich culture of the region by visiting Kampot's local markets and learning about the local handicrafts. You can also explore nearby villages to experience the traditional Cambodian way of life.

Caving and Adventure Tours
For thrill-seekers, Kampot is home to several caves and adventure spots. You can explore the famous Phnom Chhngok Cave or go on a trekking adventure in the nearby mountains.

Kampot and Kep offer the perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure, providing a great balance of relaxation and exploration for all volunteers!

Hi, I hope you are happy and that everything is going well. If not, don't worry, it will get better when you join the project!

I wanted to create a small section for a message to volunteers, by a volunteer. I am not from the school or Cambodia, and this section can be modified at any time by those who come in the future.

I will be brief, but I felt it was important to create a real environment for us volunteers to follow up on our actions and initiate long-term projects that will really move the school in the direction that the children and all the teaching staff want.

You will find the start of this project, along with others, in an Excel file upon arrival.

This is a deserving school and community: people who have dedicated their entire lives, hobbies and passions to educating the disadvantaged of rural Cambodia. It is wonderful and commendable that you are coming to help with this project, but never forget that you are here for the children above all else. This may seem obvious, but unfortunately it is not for everyone. Humanitarian work is beautiful, and even with the best of intentions, we can sometimes lose our way. But I trust all of you, and as a young person eager to learn from the world, I hope you will bring something unique, useful and valuable to this school.... for the children.

Thank you for reading this Handbook.