WHAT WE DO
Access Inglés is an educational NGO based in Santiago, Chile. We work with schools to improve their English foreign language programs using capacity building methodology. This approach focuses on community buy in and long term, sustainable change. We start with an initial, in-depth needs assessment of English programs which identifies performance gaps, then provide schools with resources and training to close those gaps. We work using practical steps to reach accomplishable goals, each tailored to the priorities and reality of the educational institution at hand in a detailed Plan for Improvement. Access Inglés facilitates this plan, working closely with the school community and connecting them with specialists to guide the necessary changes. We look for scalable solutions to address the overall lack of quality and efficiency of English programs in primary and secondary schools.
Mission & Vision
We aim to improve English foreign language programs in primary and secondary schools through capacity building and the incorporation of native English speakers; motivating, organizing, and training school communities to provide this essential 21st century skill for students.
We envision schools, regardless of socioeconomic status, that have the capacities and resources to successfully impart English language proficiency to their students, giving them the ability to communicate in the global community. We view English as a core skill leading to academic and professional opportunities, which in turn improve quality of life.
Volunteer Placement
We pair volunteers from English speaking countries in public elementary and high schools in the neighborhood of Ñuñoa in Santiago, Chile. Here they work alongside Chilean English teachers and our professional development team to motivate students with authentic, real life, communicative situations. Volunteers help with in-class activities and sometimes with resource development or activity planning in the English classroom as well. They are encouraged to participate in special activities and events and truly become part of the school community.
Connect with Chilean students today for a minimum of just 1.5 hours (standard class block) per week and give them a real reason to develop the international skill of English communication. Volunteer today!
Professional Development
We recognize that long term, sustainable improvement comes from helping teachers reach their full potential in the Chilean English classroom. They are often faced with such challenges as large class size, limited materials and uninterested students. Our professional development team consists of EFL teachers and specialists who work one-on-one with the teachers. We start with class observations to identify strengths, weaknesses, and limitations. Next we choose a few key areas to work on each semester including both methodology and classroom management. We are currently a full native English speaking team and also offer Chilean teachers an opportunity to practice and polish their own English skills.
Tools & Resources
We offer a bank of English Program Management resources to help schools guide long term English program improvement. Listed on our website under Resources, you can find planning sheets, teacher observation and evaluation sheets, and event and activity plans, to name a few. These have been developed over the past 5 years for Santiago schools with limited resources in the neighborhoods of Independencia, Maipu, Puente Alto, San Miguel, Conchali, and Ñuñoa. They are part of a larger staged plan for program improvement, devised by our founder. Print copies are available for a fee upon request. All resources in PFD or Word format are free of charge in English and Spanish.
If you would like to contribute resources for teachers, students or administrators please contact us here!