Building on the success of our inaugural program, Global Teacher's Sri Lanka Teacher Exchange offers an unforgettable blend of meaningful professional development, authentic cultural experiences and breath taking adventure. From the vibrant streets of Colombo to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, the classrooms of Batticaloa, the surf beaches of Arugam Bay and the spectacular hill country of Ella, this 10-day journey showcases the incredible diversity of Sri Lanka.
Educators will spend 5 days collaborating with teachers and students in a local K–8 school, exchanging ideas, observing classroom practice and delivering professional learning workshops that create lasting educational partnerships.
Beyond the classroom, participants will experience some of Sri Lanka's most remarkable destinations, including a safari through Minneriya National Park in search of wild elephants, the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, one of the world's most scenic train journeys, and time to relax on the stunning coastline of Arugam Bay.
With the opportunity to connect deeply with local communities while exploring one of Asia's most captivating destinations, this program offers far more than a study tour—it is a unique opportunity for professional growth, cultural exchange and memories that will last a lifetime.
By registering for this program you confirm that you have read and agree to the Global Teacher Terms & Conditions: https://www.globalteacher.com.au/terms-and-conditions.html
This experience is part of our Teacher Training Program, designed for educators who want to be fully immersed in a local school setting, with a strong focus on sharing professional practice. It can be both challenging and deeply rewarding — ideal for those looking for a more hands-on and impactful experience.
If you’d like to better understand the differences between our Study Tours and Teacher Training Programs, please visit our website for more information.
9 nights. 2 x Colombo (Luxury) , 5 x Battiacola (comfortable), 2 x Arugum Bay (Luxury)
Included on Arrival and Departure days
Daily Breakfast, 2 Lunches, and Welcome & Summit Dinners: Enjoy delicious local meals throughout the trip, including two special group dinners to connect and reflect.
Private Transport - modern, spacious private van with A/C
Professional English-speaking local guide
4 day school placement. Support a teacher in a local school.
Afternoons after school placements will be spent exploring sites along the coastline in and around Batticaloa, enriching your cultural experience through local landmarks, nature, and history.
Collaborate and present a professional development workshop for local teachers.
Discover Sri Lanka through Lion Rock, a Minneriya safari, Arugam Bay, Ella, the Nine Arch Bridge, scenic train journeys, a lagoon boat cruise and unforgettable cultural experiences along the way.
Dedicated support from GT during entire process. Including a Team Leader who will conduct pre-departure training and be available 24/7 in country
50 Hr Certificate of Professional Development.
Arrive in Colombo and meet the team for a welcome dinner and program briefing. This is a chance to settle in, get to know fellow participants, and prepare for the journey ahead. Overnight stay in Colombo.
Begin the day with an early departure after breakfast, travelling by private air-conditioned vehicle to the iconic Lion Rock (Sigiriya). Explore and climb this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, while those who prefer can visit the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple instead. Rejoin the group before heading to Minneriya National Park for an unforgettable afternoon jeep safari in search of wild elephants and other native wildlife. Afterwards, continue to Batticaloa, arriving at your water front accommodation in the early evening.
Spend each morning in classroom placements at a local K–8 school, assisting and co-teaching alongside Sri Lankan educators. Afternoons are dedicated to cultural immersion, with time to explore Batticaloa’s beaches, lagoon, and historic sites.
As a team, we come together to plan and deliver a full day of professional development for local teachers. Drawing on our combined experience and strengths, we run interactive workshops focused on practical strategies, inclusive teaching, and student engagement — tailored to the local context. It’s a powerful day of connection and learning, where we’re able to support and uplift local educators while growing in confidence and collaboration as a group. Afterwards we leave Batticaloa and head south to Arugam Bay
Enjoy a slower pace in the laid-back beach town of Arugam Bay. Choose your own adventure—learn to surf, explore the surrounding lagoons on a boat tour, or simply relax by the pool or beach. Your Global Teacher Team Leader will also be available to discuss and help arrange one of the many optional activities on offer in the area.
Depart Arugam Bay and journey into Sri Lanka's spectacular hill country to Ella, one of the country's most scenic destinations. Visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, enjoy a breathtaking train journey through lush tea plantations and mountain landscapes, before continuing by private vehicle to Colombo for your final evening together.
Enjoy a final breakfast with the group before checking out and saying your goodbyes. Transfers to Colombo International Airport can be arranged to suit your departure flight, bringing an unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure to a close.
If you choose to join our optional extension, you'll travel to the breathtaking Yala National Park after visiting the Nine Arch Bridge and completing your scenic train journey on Day 9. Spend two nights at a beautiful safari lodge, with two unforgettable days exploring Sri Lanka's most famous national park in search of elephants, leopards, sloth bears and other incredible wildlife. On Day 11, return to Colombo for a final overnight stay before departing on Day 12.
