Potential RVA Staff FAQ's

What curriculum is provided for students at the Rift Valley Academy?
The RVA curriculum is primarily a North American-based course of study. Efforts are also made to support the small number of our students in need of an IGCSE educational program.

Detailed information of RVA’s philosophy regarding its Educational Opportunities:

pdf Educational Opportunities

What would a typical school year look like?

RVA follows a year-round, single track academic schedule. School is in session from August to July each year. We have three terms, each approximately 12 weeks in length, followed by at least a one month holiday break.

What is expected of a staff member at RVA?
Since RVA is a boarding school, we are responsible for students “twenty-four-seven,” for the duration of each term. Staff is required to regularly support weekend activities, in addition to their school week duties.

Do RVA staff receive a salary?
No. All RVA staff come as volunteers, as missionaries under the umbrella of Africa Inland Mission International, and must raise finances through supporting churches, friends and family. The amount to be raised is independent of responsibilities.

What are the certification requirements for faculty?
Faculty members are required to hold teaching certificates in their home country and to be proficient in English.

Detailed information of RVA’s philosophy regarding Teacher Responsibilities and Teacher Accountability:

pdf Teacher Responsibility & Accountability

What level of teaching experience is required of potential faculty?
It is strongly recommended that prospective faculty have at least two years of experience in the classroom. This is to provide beginning teachers with the opportunity to begin to hone their classroom management skills and develop a diverse repertoire of instructional methodologies.

Is there a minimum term of service for staff at RVA?
We strongly encourage our staff to sign up for at least two years. This is because it takes time to make adjustments to life at RVA and typically one becomes much more effective in their second year of ministry. However, we do have volunteers who come for one year, or even one term (3-4 months), to cover for staff going on Home Assignment.

What is the process a person goes through to get to RVA?

  • Contact the Candidate Department of the Mobilizing Unit in your region
  • Complete the application process (documents and interviews)
  • Attend Mobilizing Unit Orientation
  • Receive official acceptance and assignment
  • Attend Africa Based Orientation
  • Arrive at RVA in late July (allow for adjustment and RVA orientation before school begins the end of August)
     

How long does it usually take to complete this process?
It normally takes about a year to get through the process and on to RVA. However, raising financial support is often the limiting factor. Some people have taken two to three years to get their finances raised.

What is my first step?
Your first step is to contact the Candidate department in the Mobilizing Unit in your region. If you go to the AIM International home page you can find links to the Mobilizing Unit in your region.