Quotes from former Language Assistants “To begin with it’s hard, but it’s worth it. It’s been the best year of my life and has converted me into the Spanish way of life” “Working as a Language Assistant…has made me more independent and a stronger person” “This year has definitely been one of the best years of my life. I have learned so much about myself. I have become much more independent, much better at making decisions and have definitely become far more confident.” “My appointment as an assistant has changed me more than anything I have ever done. I have become much more confident, assertive and independent and my German has improved beyond belief. I would recommend it to anyone.”

British Council Language Assistants Programme Name of University Day of presentation Name of presenter

1) What is a language assistant? 2) Where can you go? 3)Who is eligible? 4)How to apply 5)Points to note 6)What are the costs involved? English Language Assistants

What is an English Language Assistant? Help with teaching of English Work with class teacher or in small groups Develop students’ confidence and competence in English Not class teacher (in most countries) therefore more interesting Discuss sport, music, fashion, politics etc.

5 What skills will assistants gain? Confidence, Independence, Social skills, Cultural awareness, Communication skills, Planning skills, Organisational skills, Patience, Adaptability, Public speaking experience, Ability to live abroad, Improved language skills, Self-sufficiency, Self-reliance, Budgeting skills, Ability to live alone, Maturity, Resilience, Initiative, Teamwork skills, Open-mindedness, Time management skills, Assertion, Self- Knowledge, Resourcefulness, Presentation skills, Perseverance, Ability to cope in a wide range of situations, Tolerance, Problem-solving, Self- motivation, Diplomacy, Leadership, Creativity, Professional work experience, Listening skills, Negotiation skills, Research skills, Ability to improvise

Where can you go? French-speaking countries German-speaking countries Spanish-speaking countries Italy, China Latin America? France? Spain? China? Italy? Germany? Switzerland? Belgium? Austria? Canada?

French-speaking countries B2 in French on the European Language Level Framework required Belgium Ca. 7 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 October – 31 May 12 hours per week / Pay: around €870 per month net France Almost 1,000 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 October – 30 April 12 hours per week / Pay: around €800 per month net

French-speaking countries -B2 in French on the European Language Level Framework required Canada (Quebec) Ca. 30 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 September – 31 May 18 hours per week / Pay: around CAN$1,700 per month net Switzerland (French-speaking) Ca. 6 posts available Period of Appointment: mid August/early September to end June/early July, depending on the school's preference and the region (canton). 12 hours per week / Pay: around SF 2,600 per month net

German-speaking countries B2 in German on the European Language Level Framework required Austria Ca. 120 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 October – 31 May (1 st or 2 nd semester options also available) 13 hours per week / Pay: Ca. €1,133 per month net Germany Ca. 300 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 September – 31 May (short posts available: 1 September – end Feb) 12 hours per week / Pay: around €800 per month net

German-speaking countries B2 in German on the European Language Level Framework required Switzerland (German-speaking) Ca. 7 posts available Period of Appointment: mid August/early September to end June/early July, depending on the school's preference and the region (canton). 12 hours per week / Pay: around SF 2,600 per month net

Spanish-speaking countries B2 in Spanish on the European Language Level Framework required Spain Ca. 550 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 October – 31 May/30 June 12 hours per week / Pay: around €700 per month net Latin America Posts available in Argentina (second semester only), Chile, Colombia, Ecuador and Mexico. Number of posts (ca. 100 in total), period of appointment, hours of work and wage vary across the region. Please see our website for further details.

Italy Ca. 50 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 October – 31 May 12 hours per week / Pay: around €850 per month net China No language requirement Around 70 posts available Period of Appointment: 1 September – 30 June Around 20 hours per week Pay: between 4,000 RMB and 15,000 RMB per month (net) Inc. accommodation and £1000 contribution to flight You must have graduated when you take up your post

become-language-assistant/vlogs

Who is eligible? Native level English speakers UK/EU passport holders Completed 2 years of higher education B2 level on the European Language Level Framework required or equivalent (except China - no language requirement)

How to apply Online application procedure University Reference CV if you are a graduate or had a gap of more than 2 years between school and higher education Application deadline – 17 th January 2016 for all countries Be aware of your University’s internal deadline

Applying Online

Points to note Job application Preferences: area, age group & environment Any preferences for specific areas Important factors like disability, medical factors, religious observances, dependants, etc

What are the costs involved? Travel costs must be covered by you - Travel to and from your post - Interview - Briefing meeting Medical insurance Travel Insurance Criminal Record Check Visa Accommodation

Year Abroad Coordinator British Council Ambassadors

Study Work Create – British English Language Assistants – Get Involved

Where did your language skills take you?

Check out Robbie’s blog here: chinese-tv-dating-show chinese-tv-dating-show And the video about his experience here: Where did your language skills take you?