Those working in orphanages can expect to help with teaching the children, as well as numerous other duties. You will build special relationships with the boys and girls (aged 3-16 years). They are charming, cheerful and fun, but this work does require a great deal of patience and enthusiasm.

The orphanages are our most challenging placements in terms of basic living conditions and work. We advise volunteers to begin with a three-month placement, which can be extended to a maximum of six months (at no extra cost).

Those teaching in schools will be supporting full-time staff. All teaching is in English and may cover a variety of subjects. Teaching aids are limited so you will need to be resourceful. Outside the classroom you may choose to coach sport, drama, art or music.

Medical placements can be arranged in general and children's hospitals. These provide the chance to support hard-working staff doing a range of different jobs within the management hierarchy. Involvement in outreach programmes into the countryside is encouraged. A structured timetable would be agreed with the director of the hospital on arrival.

Placements in journalism and law are based in Chennai.

The journalism placements are designed for those with a genuine interest in this media. You will work in a busy office on the edge of the city. Depending on your previous experiences you can expect to work in all aspects of newspaper production including editing, photo-journalism, marketing and advertising and printing.

The law placements are for those people who are keen to work in this profession or who have experience in this field and wish to expand their horizons in an overseas context. We have a limited number of law placements available that tie volunteers to practice in a law firm. On arrival you will be welcomed to the busy team environment. You will be assigned to one person to whom you will be directly responsible. This person will introduce you to all aspects of the practice. You will shadow this person to gett a greater insight in to the day to day workings of the team. Once you are settled then your specific role and responsibilities will be discussed and agreed - you can expect to turn your hand to all sorts of duties from running team meetings to creating press releases to making the tea! In all cases you will need to be positive, work to deadlines and display excellent communication skills. You will need to adhere to a strict timetable and dress codes.

Placements in business (sales and marketing), agriculture and conservation can be arranged. These would provide valuable experience for those about to enter any one of these professions.