School Language Volunteer

995 - 1,950 USD (depending on duration)

January or September for 3-12 months

Embarking on a volunteering journey at a school in Spain offers many rewards for those interested in Spanish culture, language, education, and the joys of working with young minds. The overarching aim is to enrich the English proficiency of Spanish students, hence the preference for native English speakers. As a School Language Volunteer, you will be pivotal in supporting English lessons and managing engaging activities like games and storytelling sessions to nurture students’ language skills. No experience is necessary, making this opportunity a golden gateway for aspiring educators and language enthusiasts alike. Furthermore, volunteers will actively contribute to the smooth functioning of the school’s daily operations.

Immersing yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Spanish culture and language whilst volunteering at a school in Spain promises not only personal fulfilment but also the cultivation of invaluable communication, leadership, and organisational skills.

If you are excited by education and wish to acquire hands-on experience whilst delving into a fresh cultural and linguistic landscape, then embarking on this transformative journey at a school in Spain is tailor-made for you.

Locations

The schools are in small towns and cities all over Spain.

Work Schedule

Volunteers work 16 hours in the classroom each week and have the opportunity to get involved in other aspects of school life. With three-day weekends (Friday-Sunday) and school holidays, there will be plenty of time to explore and experience the local culture.

Age Requirements

Visa requires volunteers to be at least 17 years old at the point of application.

Income

Volunteers can earn additional income by providing English tuition, which is in high demand. The school is available to assist in arranging tutoring opportunities.

Teamwork

Volunteering at a school means working closely with a diverse team of all ages. You’ll always be just a short journey away from fellow volunteers, who will offer support, fun, and opportunities to explore more of Spain

Food & Accommodation

The host family and school will provide traditional Spanish meals (expect Paella), and can cater to specific dietary requirements. Volunteers have a private room with a host family where they will experience authentic Spanish life.

An incredible experience

December 20, 2024

For my NVW placement, I was a school language assistant in the North of Spain. The experience exceeded my expectations. Everything from the pre-trip planning, training, and placement support was fantastic and well-organised. This is thanks to the great NVW team, who were simply wonderful at supporting us throughout the whole experience. My host family went above and beyond, and I am incredibly grateful for their hospitality and kindness. We still keep in contact and I have visited them since my placement ended!

This experience is a great way to learn a new language and culture while gaining valuable work skills. Working as a volunteer gave me a sense of what I wanted to do career-wise when I returned home to New Zealand. In between the work, you’ll have ample opportunities to travel to beautiful places around Spain/Europe, and opportunities to meet new people and create lasting friendships.

Overall, an incredible experience I can 100% recommend. Do it!!!!!

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William

Unexpected surprises can result in lifelong memories and friendships

December 19, 2024

When I arrived in Spain for my language volunteer position in January 2020, I had know idea what I would be in for. I had originally hoped that living in Spain would help me to improve my Spanish. However, I was placed small town in the Basque Country where everyone spoke Basque (a language unlike anything I had ever heard). While I was a little disappointed at first, I ended up absolutely loving the town, the gorgeous scenery, and all of the people I met.

After about two months of volunteering in the local school and getting to know my host family, the COVID-19 pandemic hit, putting Spain into a lockdown. Although the world was chaotic, there was never a time that I felt unsafe during my placement due to the wonderful staff at NVW the amazing family that offered to host me. While some volunteers chose to head home at that time, I chose to wait to see if things would settle enough to return to my volunteer position in the school. Unfortunately I was never able to return to the school for the extent of my placement. However, the experience brought me extremely close to my host family. I would not trade that for anything. 5years later and we are still in close contact. My Basque family have come to visit me in Canada and I have taken my family to visit them back in Spain. I am forever grateful for my volunteering experience and the connections I made. Eskerrik asko

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Jordyn

Made My Living Abroad Dream Come True

December 4, 2024

I volunteered at a school in the València region of Spain. It was an incredible experience, and I am walking away with so many lasting memories. New Ventures Worldwide helped every step of the way as I lived out my dream of living abroad short term. They ensured I stayed safe but more importantly that I had the experience I wanted. Thankful for the opportunity!

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Jordan

Volunteer Case Study

Clara describes her role at the primary school, assisting English classes for children aged 5-11. Her duties include helping with various activities like reading books and conversations and tailoring lessons for events like Christmas and Diwali. Initially uncertain, Clara grew confident, finding her place in the classroom.

“I’m more independent and more thankful for the things I have. Professionally, I still want to be a teacher. It has confirmed it for me.”

Programme Manager

Supporting volunteer journeys

The Spain Programme Manager, Josh, prepares volunteers for their placements and provides ongoing support.

Originally from London, Josh has worked in Education in Spain for over 30 years, and is passionate about helping young people live their dreams and explore the world. He wishes he had the chance to do a gap year! Josh knows all the placements personally, and is always available to support volunteers during the application and placement period. ¡Hasta Pronto, amigos!

Fee Details

Why there’s a fee
New Ventures Worldwide is a UK-registered nonprofit charity. The fee contributes to our operating costs and allows us to continue our mission of arranging volunteering placements for our global network of nonprofit organisations. A financial report is published annually to the UK Charity Commission.

 

Included in the fee
Support acquiring a sponsored visa, a thoroughly vetted placement, an appropriate volunteer role based on age, experience and interests, a placement mentor, any necessary training, preparation guidance, ongoing support, accommodation and food.

 

Additional costs 
In addition to the placement fee, volunteers pay for flights, a visa, and travel insurance, usually costing around $2,500 USD (depending on the departure destination). If you wish to continue your placement after the agreed finish date, NVW can extend your visa by six months for €350 Euros. The Spanish government charges an additional €200 Euros.

FAQs

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What is the enrolment process?

After completing the application form, our team will check if you are eligible for your chosen program before inviting you to a Welcome Video Call. The interview is where you get to know the New Ventures Worldwide team, ask questions and get matched to your perfect program. Various background checks are then conducted before you are officially enrolled in the program.

What are the benefits?

  • See the world while experiencing a new culture
  • Experience personal growth, becoming more confident and independent
  • Make an impact working with international non-profit organisations
  • It looks great on your CV
  • Learn new skills for life
  • Gain perspective and understand what life is all about

Do I need flights and travel insurance?

Yes, you will need to arrange your own flights and travel insurance. You’ll need to send us your travel insurance policy details before starting a program.

Can a friend and I enrol on the same placement?

Being on a volunteering placement means you’ll always have a network of people around you, including locals and other volunteers. Providing a readymade community with local knowledge to explore, share, and create incredible memories. However, if you want to travel with a friend from home, let us know, and we can usually arrange for you to be on the same placement.

What happens if there is a problem during the placement?

New Ventures Worldwide has a Ladder of Support so you can see who to contact if you need help. Your placement will assist you in almost all situations. However, we also offer background support, mainly if a more serious issue arises.

Application Form

The journey of a lifetime starts here!

Applicant Details

Our placements are for those aged 17-30-years-old
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Placement Details

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Requirements

Schools may consider volunteers who have a high level of English, if this is their second language.

Applicant Experience

Please aim for 50 words
Please aim for 50 words