Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers strongly believes in providing opportunities for Under 18s to travel and contribute to global animal welfare and marine conservation endeavours. Volunteer teens are given the opportunity to work alongside world-class leaders who can mentor and inspire, while participants enjoy a unique experience and get to know other volunteers from all over the world.
What can I do?
Most Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers projects are working animal shelters and are not suitable for children or teenagers due to the wild animals on site, however, we do offer some other opportunities.
For 17-year-old participants, we offer the Great Barrier Reef Marine Conservation and Island Reef Research & Conservation projects. This is also suitable for students completing their Duke of Edinburgh Award. This prestigious Award is a leading structured (non-formal education) youth development program, empowering all young Australians aged between 14 to 25 to explore their full potential regardless of their location or circumstance.
What if I have a guardian who is over 18?
If you have a responsible over 18 travelling with you, more opportunities are available for young minds who are enthusiastic and eager to engage the world and expand their own horizons. What a great way to discover first hand the part we play in global environmental conservation while transitioning into university and the wider world.
The Great Barrier Reef Marine Conservation and Island Reef Research & Conservation projects can be completed by participants from 16 years of age as snorkelers if they have a legal guardian who is over 18 as their responsible person.
The Eco-Expedition for Families and Groups is available to all ages from infants. It is the perfect family holiday if you’re looking to contribute to ethical and educational travel.
In Thailand, we suggest a 2 day, 1 night stay at our Elephant Care Centre in Chang Mai. The location is naturally stunning. Combined with the company of a herd of rescued elephants you will have the chance to take numerous pictures and keep lifelong memories. Overnight stays are all about spending time with the herd and do not adhere to a strict schedule, which is the best way to make the most of your visit – relax, watch and learn from the elephants.
You can find the project under Northern Thailand Elephant Sanctuary on our website, however, please note the details on the website is the full project. Please contact us for specifics on this project.
What will I learn?
Under 18 volunteers gain knowledge, skills and experiences that last a lifetime, and prepare them for a life of sustainable and responsible living.
With a footprint on every continent on the planet, from Australia to Asia, Central and South America, Africa and Europe, Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers is open and welcoming for young adventurers to embrace a challenge and venture outside their comfort zone. With more and more projects coming on board for Under 18 conservationists, please get in touch to speak to us about how you can contribute.
Why should I sign up before I am 18?
There are a few advantages to joining the O2E family before the age of 18 that are not overtly apparent from the outset. As work, study and family commitments emerge over the course of time, there are often more distractions and impediments that can present themselves for adults. From the ages of 12 to 18, young people are curious, hungry to experience new environments, meet new people and explore what this magnificent world has to offer – and what they can offer it. Education for our youth is often viewed through the prism of a standard classroom, but breaking barriers and pushing boundaries in foreign and exotic landscapes can genuinely accelerate development and shape the minds of our future.
With the help and assistance of our dedicated team at Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers, you can rest assured that the youngsters are in safe hands.
Through a series of tasks that include feeding and prepping food and water for the animals, managing time, communicating with team members and offering feedback, the limits to their experience are only the ones they place on themselves. They are guided through the process, accompanied by family members, peers or O2E specialists at any given moment.
Although we understand that the Under 18’s are still learning and developing their knowledge and maturity, there is an expectation of respect, civility and humility that must be brought to these projects. This is a universal principle that we embrace at O2E because of the inherent risks and responsibilities that must be managed on a daily basis.
Also, remember that O2E projects do book out for much of the year so book early to get your preferred dates!
Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers Ethical Standards
Oceans 2 Earth Volunteers uphold the highest ethical standards throughout our operations. Read our Ethical Standards Policy here.
