OUR STORY
A DREAM ... IN PROGRESS
From 30 students in a temple classroom to a school with 370 students
English Club Laos (ECL) is a locally managed, non-profit English learning community
based in the heart of Luang Prabang, Laos. Our mission is to provide accessible,
high-quality English education while creating meaningful cultural exchange through
international volunteering.
OUR STORY
How we got here
2013
The Beginning
English classes started with the support of international volunteers and were held in Buddhist temples, schools and libraries across Luang Prabang. As more students joined, the program quickly grew into a full-time community learning initiative.
2015
Connecting with the World
English Club Laos launched its first website to welcome international volunteers. Since then, more than 400 volunteers from around the world have supported our students through teaching and cultural exchange.
2017
A Community Learning Centre
As the number of students increased, we opened our first permanent learning centre by renting classrooms from Monk school at Wat Siphoutthabhat Temple in the heart of Luang Prabang and expanded our team of Lao teachers.
Today
A Growing Community
Today, English Club Laos provides full-time English classes with a dedicated team of seven Lao teachers and volunteers from around the world. We support more than 400 students each year, helping children, teenagers, university students and monks develop the English skills and confidence to create brighter futures.
Our Mission
To empower local communities by providing accessible, high-quality English education while promoting cultural exchange through international volunteering.
Our Vision
To become one of Laos' leading community-based English education and volunteer organizations, creating opportunities that inspire lifelong learning, global friendships and positive social change.
Why Volunteer with Us?
Volunteering with English Club Laos is more than teaching English. It is an opportunity to become part of a local community, experience authentic Lao culture and make a meaningful contribution to young people's futures.
- Support local teachers in interactive English classes.
- Help students build confidence in speaking English.
- Experience daily life in Luang Prabang.
- Learn about Lao culture, traditions, and Buddhism.
- Build lifelong friendships with students, staff, and fellow volunteers.
- Leave a lasting positive impact on the community.
Together, our students, teachers, volunteers and supporters are creating brighter futures through education.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated local teachers and staff are passionate about helping students achieve their goals. Together with international volunteers, we create an engaging learning environment where every student is encouraged to develop confidence, communication skills and a love of learning
Somsouk
The Founder and Executive Director
Mr. Somsouk Chittakeo is a native of Luang Prabang, Laos, and graduated from Luang Prabang Teacher Training College in 2005
Phonevanh
Office Manager & English Teacher
Phonevanh was born in Xieng Khouang Province in northeastern Laos and graduated from Souphanouvong University with a degree in English.
Khone
Volunteer Assistant & English Teacher
Born in a small village in Viengkham District, Laos, Khone graduated from Souphanouvong University
Xai Bouavone
English Teacher
Born in a small village in Xieng Ngeun District, Luang Prabang Province, Xai Bouavone moved to Luang Prabang to pursue her studies at Souphanouvong University
Bounmee
English Teacher
Bounmee is from Sayyabouly Province and joined English Club Laos in 2023 as an English teacher.
Metmouk
Part-Time English Teacher
Metmouk is a third-year student at Souphanouvong University and has been a part-time English teacher at English Club Laos since 2024.
Kik
English Teacher
Originally from Luang Prabang, Mrs. Kik graduated from Souphanouvong University. She joined English Club Laos in 2025 as an English teache
Namphueng
Part-Time English Teacher
Namphueng is a second-year English major at Souphanouvong University. She joined English Club Laos as a part-time English teacher in 2025