A working knowledge of the English language is seen by many to be essential in achieving success at school, university and in later life, and the teaching project gives you the opportunity to support a number of schools that are often severely understaffed and rely on donations, small tuition payments from parents, and the assistance of volunteers for their survival.
Some are linked to orphanages and children´s homes, and the staff sometimes have little formal training or qualifications. In many cases they are volunteers themselves. By joining them, you will not only be helping the students, but you will be able to inspire and encourage their teachers, helping them to develop an exciting learning environment.
You may be helping children take their first steps in learning English, or sitting in on a conversation group for mature students at university. Whichever you choose, there is always a genuine need for conversational English practice, and the benefits your students receive by simply talking to you cannot be measured.
We assist in many different projects, and class sizes vary from a handful of students, to group sessions with up to 30 participants. You may feel more comfortable in a smaller group setting, giving more personal attention, or be quite happy to ¨stand up in front of the class¨, and take charge of a much larger group. Depending on your teaching experience and your Spanish skills, you will either be a teacher's assistant,
or lead your own class. Even without teaching experience, if you feel comfortable working alone, arrangements can always be made for you to plan and run your own classes.
A wide variety of class times is available, Monday to Friday. Day-time lessons for children, evening studies for mature students, and the possibility of some week-end courses. Once you settle into your accommodation we will arrange the times of your project to suit your requirements.
A knowledge of Spanish is not essential, as many classes adopt an ¨English only¨ policy. Placements are carefully selected, taking into account your level of Spanish, the age range of the students, and their level of English. You might choose to learn as you teach, by joining a Spanish tuition course. For more information, take a look at our ´Spanish Tuition´ page.
You may wish to expand the scope of your project, by assisting with the extra-curricular activities that most schools and colleges arrange, such as music, art, drama, or sports. Please indicate on your application form if you have an interest or experience in these or other areas, and an appropriate project will be selected.
You will not be asked to bring any materials with you. Your teaching project will be well-established, and have the materials and equipment needed for you to run regular and successful classes.
