What to Expect from an Education Internship in Cambodia
“It has made me realize that many of us in Western countries take our education for granted, and that education really can be a way to uplift an entire population.”…
Health and Wellbeing Internship in Cambodia
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Lead wellbeing initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles, improved nutrition, and stronger child development outcomes in Cambodia
Based in Siem Reap, this Health and Wellbeing Internship places you in a grassroots education setting where you will help design and support programs focused on nutrition, hygiene, mental health awareness, regular physical activity, and healthy daily habits for children and families. You will work closely with local staff to strengthen understanding of wellbeing topics and contribute to practical, engaging ways of delivering health education in a low-resource environment.
As an intern, you may develop learning materials, assist with interactive workshops, support school-based wellbeing sessions, and help staff implement new health-focused activities. A secondary project focus may include sports-based engagement, using activities such as football and volleyball to encourage teamwork, confidence, and physical activity. Outside of your public health internship, you’ll settle into life in Siem Reap, where busy markets, friendly communities, and rich cultural traditions give you a real sense of everyday living in Cambodia.
Learning Objectives
- Develop practical skills in designing and delivering health and wellbeing education for children and communities
- Gain understanding of nutrition hygiene and mental wellbeing challenges in a low-resource educational setting
- Strengthen communication and facilitation skills through workshops and interactive classroom engagement
- Build awareness of how physical activity and sports can support confidence teamwork and healthy lifestyles
ORGANIZATION
Based just outside Siem Reap in Cambodia, this nonprofit supports community‑led development by connecting volunteers and interns with meaningful programs that strengthen local capacity and well‑being. They partner with community initiatives that provide educational activities, youth engagement, language support, and life‑skills opportunities, and they help run a community centre that serves as a hub for learning and connection. With a focus on ethical engagement and sustainable impact, their work aims to empower residents, support children and families, and promote responsible tourism and volunteer practices that benefit both the community and those looking to make a positive contribution.
TASKS & REQUIreMENTS
This is a tailor-made Health Internship where tasks and responsibilities will be adapted based on your skills, experience, and the current needs of the project.
Alongside health and wellbeing education, there is also the opportunity to develop a sports-based project focused on increasing regular physical activity for children, introducing new games and activities, supporting existing football and volleyball sessions, and helping explore ways to make sports more inclusive and accessible within the school and wider community.
Responsibilities
- Assess current health, hygiene, nutrition, and wellbeing activities delivered within the school setting
- Develop engaging lesson materials and workshop content on healthy eating, hygiene, and mental wellbeing
- Deliver interactive health and wellbeing sessions for students in collaboration with local teachers
- Support staff training by sharing ideas for improving wellbeing education delivery and engagement
- Design practical activities that encourage children to make healthier daily lifestyle choices
- Explore opportunities to improve access to nutritious food options within school-based initiatives
- Contribute to planning and delivery of community outreach sessions for parents and families
- Support a sports-based project by introducing inclusive games and encouraging regular physical activity
- Assist with enhancing existing football and volleyball activities and break-time sports engagement
- Help organize school events and activities that promote healthy living and active participation
Requirements
- Academic background or experience in public health, health, education, nutrition, sports science, or a related field
- Demonstrate strong English communication skills both written and verbal
- Show confidence working with children
- Work independently while collaborating effectively with local teachers & staff
- Exhibit cultural awareness, adaptability, and an open-minded approach
- Be comfortable leading both classroom-based and physical activity sessions
- Provide two professional or academic references
WHERE YOU’LL STAY
Your home for the duration of your internship is a charming, family-run guesthouse in the heart of Siem Reap. You’ll have your own comfortable room with a private bathroom and fan; get in touch to upgrade to an A/C room if you’d prefer. On-site you’ll find a restaurant, laundry facilities, and Wifi, so everything you need is right on your doorstep. Close enough to enjoy the buzz of Siem Reap’s restaurants, bars, and night markets, yet tucked away from the noise, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a rewarding day’s work.
Safety & Support
Safety & Support
Make sure to visit your doctor and dentist for a check-up before your internship and to get all the recommended vaccines and/or medications necessary to stay healthy.
The guesthouse where interns stay has its own 24/7 security, as well as a doctor and nurse on call.
Siem Reap is considered one of the safest and most accessible cities in Cambodia, making it a great base for your internship. That said, as with any destination, it’s important to exercise common-sense precautions: avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables secure, and stay aware of your surroundings. As a foreigner, it’s important to be aware of and respect the culture & customs of the location you are in.
Communication
Communication
Interns have access to the guesthouse’s Wifi. You can also find many local cafes and restaurants with Wifi around town. For an affordable way to ensure constant connection, purchase a local SIM card to stay connected with family and friends – as long as your phone is unlocked for international carriers. Consider a global e-SIM plan for the first few days of your arrival until you get set up with a local SIM.
Meals
Meals
A simple breakfast is provided daily by the guesthouse. For lunch and dinner, Siem Reap offers a wide variety of affordable local restaurants nearby. Don’t miss the chance to try local favourites like fish amok, fresh spring rolls, and the famous Khmer noodle soup; eating your way around town is all part of the experience!
Location details
Location details
Known by most as the gateway to the ancient Angkor Wat Temples, Siem Reap is a city to be remembered. Well-geared for travellers and expats, English is widely spoken and you’ll find no shortage of great restaurants, bars, and amenities to enjoy. It’s a quieter, more laid-back city than Phnom Penh — but that’s part of its charm. In your downtime, you’ll have the chance to explore the millennia-old Angkor Temples, soak up the vibrant night markets, and discover the stunning natural surroundings that make this corner of Cambodia so special.
DATES & RATES
Fee Breakdown
Internship start and end dates are flexible and will be discussed with you during the selection process.
What you’ll pay (2026 rates)
6 weeks: USD 2,197
8 weeks: USD 2,425
12 weeks: USD 3,003
16 weeks: USD 3,479
20 weeks: USD 3,955
26 weeks: USD 4,669
Inclusions
- Careful matchmaking. It takes time to find the right internship for each person, and we take this process very seriously.
- Initial interview with one of our team to gauge your skills, interests, and desired learning outcomes.
- An academic internship eligible for university credit. Check with your university to confirm if this internship qualifies for credit or alternatively we can assist you with purchasing transfer credits.
- Accommodation in a single room with a fan at a local guesthouse. If you’d like a room with A/C, please contact us for the rates.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure
- Daily breakfast
- Wifi access
- Housekeeping service
- Internship project facilitation
- Guidance with your visa arrangement and other preparations
- Development of an Internship Work Plan to help you reach your learning goals
- An orientation program with your supervisor
- Regular check-ins during your internship
- Support from the Roots team remotely
- A certificate of completion at the end of your internship
- A reference letter upon request
Exclusions
- Flights to Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport
- Visa and medical/travel insurance costs for the duration of your placement – must include cover for repatriation
- Daily lunch and dinner
- Drinks, snacks, and items of personal nature (f.e. curios, gifts, clothing)
- Costs for additional excursions or activities
FAQs
Some of our most commonly asked questions for programs in Cambodia.
What can I expect from an internship in Cambodia?
Participating in an internship in Cambodia guarantees a dynamic and enriching experience. This Southeast Asian gem, known for its profound historical legacy and cultural heritage, serves as a unique backdrop for both professional development and personal growth. Interns can expect to gain valuable knowledge in various sectors, actively contributing to impactful projects, and immersing themselves in the local culture. Whether working in urban centers or rural communities, these internships offer exposure to diverse challenges and opportunities, fostering an in-depth understanding of Cambodia’s social, economic, and cultural landscapes. Beyond the workplace, the chance to explore historical sites, engage with the warm and welcoming community, and savor the local cuisine adds an extra layer of richness to this internship adventure. If the possibility of undertaking this internship has piqued your interest, explore further to discover the motivations for pursuing an internship in Cambodia and uncover the distinctive experience this country holds for you.
How will a nonprofit internship in Cambodia help my career development?
Embarking on a nonprofit internship in Cambodia offers a transformative experience for career development. Your involvement contributes to meaningful initiatives, as you become part of a greater endeavor dedicated to grassroots projects. This opportunity allows you to apply your skills to a worthwhile cause, creating a tangible difference in the community. By being a vital component of something larger than yourself, you forge deeper connections with local communities, gaining priceless insights into their challenges and strengths. This immersive experience not only enhances your professional skills but also nurtures a sense of social responsibility, positioning you as a well-rounded and socially conscious professional. Delve deeper to explore the career benefits of participating in a charity internship.
How can I prepare for my internship?
Prepare for your upcoming adventure by immersing yourself in the vibrant history and culture of Cambodia. Take the time to reflect on your internship goals, envisioning the impact you hope to make during this enriching experience. Be reassured that our support goes beyond mere preparation – we are your partners throughout this journey. Feel empowered to contact us with any questions related to placement logistics, matchmaking, or for guidance on visa and insurance matters. Throughout your placement we’ll check in regularly and make sure you’re on track to reach your goals. We’re dedicated to assisting you at every stage of your experience, ensuring a smooth and rewarding journey.
Can I get university credit for an internship in Cambodia?
Undoubtedly! Numerous interns have successfully earned university credit for their experiences in Cambodia. To ensure a seamless process, consult with your academic supervisor or the relevant department at your university. They can provide guidance on specific requirements and procedures for obtaining credit. Moreover, you have the option to purchase transfer credits, enhancing the overall value of your internship journey.
QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: Siem Reap, Cambodia
PROGRAM FOCUS: Community Development NGO
TASK FOCUS: Public Health, Nutrition, Sports, Workshops
LENGTH: Min. 6 weeks
COST: From USD 2,197
FEATURED REVIEW
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gain real-world experience in community health education and youth wellbeing programs
- Build practical skills in workshop design, facilitation, and group engagement
- Learn how public health concepts are adapted in low-resource educational settings
- Experience how sport & play can support child development and confidence
- Live and work in Siem Reap near Cambodia’s Angkor temple complex
ENQUIREAPPLY NOW
HOW TO APPLY
If you’re ready to apply for this internship, here’s what to do:
APPLY
Fill in the application form (it will show in a new screen) which includes sharing your CV to us.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVISOR
We’ll set up a call with you to go through your application.
INTERNSHIP MATCHING
If we feel it’s a good match, we’ll set up a call between you and the supervisor for this internship.
PAYMENT
If everyone’s happy, we’ll provisionally confirm your placement! We’ll then send you the invoice for the deposit, getting started with the booking process and all the info you need.
CONFIRMATION
Only once we receive payment of the deposit your placement will be confirmed.
NEED TO MAKE AN ENQUIRY FIRST?
Or if you’d just like to ask us some questions about this internship first, just fill in the contact form below. We’ll be happy to assist!
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