Middle and High School Science Teacher

Middle and high schools across Tanzania need committed science educators who can help students build strong inquiry skills and connect classroom science to real‑world experimentation.

Tanzania is facing a critical and longstanding shortage of middle and high school science teachers, with deficits reaching up to 48%. The main cause of this shortage is students’ poor performance in math and science, leading to fewer graduates in those subjects. Also, the students who do graduate in math and science are less likely to choose a career in teaching. The scarcity of science teachers leads to large class sizes and historically low pass rates, poor foundational instruction in science, and low competency levels for students. Many students ages 12–20 progress through school without the competency and confidence needed to succeed in advanced science or related subjects. Despite these challenges, the Government of Tanzania is actively working to improve teaching quality and expand science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning opportunities. . There is an urgent need to spark an interest in STEM among students.

As a Middle and High School Science Teacher, you will play a critical role in strengthening science education at your assigned school. By modeling effective instructional approaches, and sharing practical techniques, you will help strengthen the capacity of teachers. Your efforts will inspire Tanzania’s next generation of scientists, educators, innovators, and problem-solvers.

Bachelor's degree in secondary education with concentration in any science.
OR
Bachelor's degree in any discipline with secondary certification in science.
OR
Bachelor's degree in general science, biology, chemistry, physics, or engineering.
OR
Bachelor's degree in any physical science or any biological science or equivalent.
OR
Bachelor's degree in any discipline with a minor or equivalent in biology, chemistry, or physics.

During training, Volunteers will live in a private room within a host family’s house. Volunteers will then move to a rural community not far from the assigned middle or high school. Housing accommodations may range from simple two‑room homes to modest walk‑up apartments. Amenities vary by site, and while some locations offer running water and electricity, access is not guaranteed. Available transportation includes taxis, bajajs (3-wheeled transport), minibuses, and buses.

Receive practical, high-quality training on Tanzania’s national curriculum, student-centered approaches, and effective classroom management—essential skills for a career in education.
Build confidence as a public speaker and grow as a leader while making a meaningful impact on young students.
Learn Swahili while developing strong community relationships and experiencing Tanzanian culture.

Identify foundational math concepts and teach the essential concepts and skills students need for mastery.
Introduce interactive, hands‑on classroom strategies that support long-term science comprehension.
Teach physics, chemistry, and biology from the national curriculum using a STEM-aligned, inquiry-based approach.
Coach students to develop confidence, persistence, and goals in pursuing future academic and career pathways.
Design, administer, and analyze pre‑ and post‑assessments to measure learning growth.
Plan and teach lessons that reinforce key vocabulary and incorporate guest speakers who are STEM role models.
Develop and facilitate hands‑on, discovery‑focused activities that promote exploration and inquiry.

You may also work on additional projects that meet the community’s priorities, such as supporting after-school clubs and summer camps.

As a Middle and High School Teacher, you will be trained on the national curriculum, student-centered approaches, and effective classroom management. Peace Corps/Tanzania will teach you Swahili to help you live comfortably and connect with the community.  

After 11 weeks of pre-service training, you will move to a rural community where you will collaborate with educators and staff at a middle or high school to assess science education needs and develop long-term solutions.