South Africa
South Africa is a land of extraordinary beauty, magnificent wildlife and rich cultural diversity. It is also a country where the two extremes of economic development live side by side. Only since the end of Apartheid in 1994 has it been possible to visit South Africa. This is an exciting time for the country as it overcomes the legacy of the past and looks with optimism towards the future.
Volunteering in South Africa gives participants a first hand experience of a new nation working towards a vision of unity and prosperity. Many serious problems need to be tackled if this vision is to be realised, such as poverty, AIDS and inequality, and this is where volunteers can make a real contribution. There are many important volunteer projects available, mostly near the beautiful city of Cape Town.
Main Features
- 5 days orientation including visits and excursions (standard programme)
- Homestay with a local host family
- Projects: teaching, welfare, community development and environment
- From 2 to 24 weeks
Projects
There are many interesting projects available in the categories listed below. The projects given here are an example of the projects in each category. Our goal is to match the skills and expectations of the participants with the needs of the local projects. Our volunteer coordinator in the field will suggest a project for you once they have your application. They are well placed to match your skills and interests to the right placements.
Teaching and Education
The public education system is currently facing many challenges due to a lack of resources, overcrowded schools and other inherent issues. There are many schools in and around Cape Town where volunteers are desperately needed. Most schools need assistant teachers / volunteers in teaching Maths, English and Computer Skills. There are opportunities at all levels from pre-school to high school. Volunteers must be patient, enthusiastic and enjoy working with children. Please note that placement in Schools are not available during public holidays (June 9 - July 13, 23 Sept - 4 Oct, Dec 10 - Jan). Alternative education placements in crèches will be available.
Ikaya Primary School is situated in Kayamandi Township. Ikaya is a very challenging placement as they have approximately 1600 learners and 39 teachers. Ages at the school ranges from 6 years to 15 years old. Most learners at Ikaya Primary come from very poor families in the surrounding areas. They also offer foundation phase to senior classes at the school.
Wildlife and Animals
The Wildlife protection programme, volunteers are placed in a 6000 hectares of land which is filled with a variety of wild life, including the BIG 5!Duties of volunteers will mostly be outdoors and will sometimes be under unpleasant weather conditions.
In the Monkey Rehabilitation programme, volunteer are feeding animals in the wildlife. Caring for the young and sick monkeys and animals, cleaning cages etc. A love for Monkeys is a necessity!
Environment
In recent years, many beautiful but forgotten nature reserves are being redeveloped and relaunched. Alien vegetation is being cleared, to make way for the rich diversity of indigenous plant species. Community gardens are beginning to flourish. Archaeological excavation sites are being displayed to study evolution and the cradle of mankind. As a volunteer you could assist in these crucial developments. To work in this area, you must enjoy the outdoors, be enthusiastic and willing to get your hands dirty, be physically fit, and have a passion for conservation. Preference will be given to applicants with related educational background or experience in this field.
The Rondevlei Nature Reserve is one of the most important wetlands for birds in the Western Cape. Situated just 25 minutes from the city, Rondevlei is surrounded by majestic Coastal Dunes and a large lake. Volunteer tasks vary from season to season, but include bird-counts and fauna monitoring, assisting in environmental educational programmes, and general maintenance work.
Community Development
In recent years there have been numerous new projects set up with the aim of redressing the damages of Apartheid and supporting the budding South African democracy at local level. These organisations train community members to assume leadership roles and create possibilities for development within the community. There are also organisations which work to develop community-based industries such as tourism. Volunteers should have good people skills; a knowledge of computers may be an advantage.
The Prochorus Community Development Project is a non-profit organisation based in the Kyamundi Township. Its aim is to positively impact the town and region in terms of empowerment, development, and emergency relief. Ongoing projects include adult skills training, job creation for women in townships, a pregnancy crisis centre, sex education and computer literacy in schools.
Welfare
South Africa is a country facing severe social problems, such as a high rate of crime, widespread HIV/AIDS, unemployment and poverty. Organisations which care for the disadvantaged and vulnerable in society are in particular need of assistance, and this is an area where volunteers can make an important contribution working on a one-to-one basis. Volunteers are needed in a wide range of very worthwhile projects, including caring for the disabled, the homeless, AIDS orphans, abused women and street children. This can often be difficult work, and volunteers must be emotionally strong, patient, kind and enthusiastic to succeed.
Place of Hope is a not for profit organisation addressing the needs of street workers and homeless people. They provide care and support for these marginalised individuals (mainly women). A dedicated team of full-time workers and volunteers help in providing short-term accommodation, emotional and spiritual counselling, a job skills programme and adult basic education and training classes to improve proficiency in English
Health
Volunteers are placed in local clinics, public hospitals, hospice centres for terminally ill HIV/AIDS patients, HIV/AIDS Awareness programmes. Most of the medical projects are understaffed and there is a lack of resources. This can be a stressful and challenging environment to work in.
Duties of volunteers vary from day-to-day. It is important that volunteers understand the local South African Health situation and the challenges that it faces. Volunteers need to be extremely open-minded and flexible in their approach to this type of placement. They must be willing to give any basic help needed. These placements should not be seen or regarded as internship positions or an opportunity to gain practical training in the medical field. Initially it will take a while for volunteers to get to know the staff and understand the limitations. The staff will assess the volunteers and they will be given more to do once they find their way around basic activities.
The Parow Community Clinic is a local authority managed facility (government funded). There are 12 full-time staff members at the facility Volunteers generally assist with; reception duties, weighing of babies in the preparation room, general administration duties and information sessions to the public.
Sports Development
Volunteers are involved in basic sports coaching and fitness training. In some instances sports coaching involves informing about healthy lifestyle awareness programmes and team building programmes. Some projects are very well structured and well managed; others lack infrastructure and resources.
The Future Factory is a sports and social outreach programme. The projects main focus is to address the social needs of children at primary school level through the medium of sports. Future Factory offers various sports coaching programmes including athletics, netball, volleyball, cricket, soccer, and various other sports.
IT Education and computer skills projects now available
Programme details
Arrival & Orientation
You will arrive in Cape Town International airport and will be picked up and transferred to the volunteer lodge in Cape Town. You will start a 1 day orientation. The purpose of the orientation is to give you an understanding of the people, culture, languages and political climate of South Africa. It will also give you the necessary travel, safety and medical advice, as well as advice on how to prepare for the upcoming volunteer project.
Accommodation
During the orientation, you will stay at the volunteer lodge in Cape Town (meals are not included).
Accommodation while on volunteer placement is generally with a host family, with meals provided by the family. Some projects have self -catering accommodations on site. Volunteers can also be staying in the volunteer lodge for the whole stay. Volunteers living with a host family are quickly integrated into the local community, and this is a unique opportunity to experience everyday life in South Africa. Certain projects (such as in nature reserves) provide accommodation and meals for volunteers on site.
Start dates
Arrival dates on Sundays Please note that placement in Schools are not available during public holidays (mid June 9 - mid July 13, end ofSept - beginning of Oct, mid Dec - Jan). Alternative education placements in crèches will be available.
Visas
If you are staying less than 90 days, you will be issued a tourist stamp on arrival together with a volunteer endorsement. If you are staying longer than 90 days, you need to apply for a volunteer vis.
The EIL Development Education Network
Our volunteers work and live alongside local people in local communities in some of the most deprived areas in the world. It is in response to their experiences that the EIL development education programme was set up. On their return to Ireland we ask our volunteers to be the voice for the stories of the people they worked with and to highlight their experience of poverty and inequality. Then together we campaign to make a difference by promoting global justice, human rights, fair trade, debt relief and greater equality and respect among the peoples of the world. Our goal is to see global justice and equality reach the top of the Irish agenda.
The Application Process
Applying for the Volunteer Abroad programme is a straight forward process: after receiving your application and CV we will contact you to find out more about your interests and motivation for wanting to be a volunteer. We then send your information to our colleagues in the country of your choice and they make your placement. As soon as they confirm a suitable placement for you, we will send you all the information necessary to finalise your preparations. Although some countries can accept late applications, you should send your completed application 12 weeks in advance. The earlier you apply, the more time we have to find the most suitable project for you.
What you need to do:
- Complete the application form ( Word / PDF ) and send it to us together with 2 recent passport photos, €350 deposit, and recent CV.
- Do a telephone interview (or in person if you live in Cork and/or want to call in).
- A confirmation letter of enrolment will then be sent within 10 working days.
If you prefer we can send you the application form by post.
For more information about applying to volunteer with EIL please see How do I apply? or contact Anton.
Cost & Details
We guarantee no hidden costs.
We encourage you to compare our costs with other organisations and a careful comparison of what is included and what is not included is always advisable.
NEW REDUCED PRICES FOR 2012:
What Is Included
- Pre-departure information and preparation workshop
- Airport pick up
- Placement in project
- Meals and accommodation for the duration of the project placement
- One-day orientation
- Accommodation in hostel for duration of orientation (no meals included - 1 night)
- Orientation booklet and information guides with information on living in South Africa
- Transfer to host family after orientation
- Full assistance and back-up support for the duration of the programme
- Free access to online TEFL resources
- Debrief workshop on return to Ireland
- Invitation to join the EIL Development Education Network
What Is Not Included
- Cost of flights
- Airport transfer at the end of the programme
- Optional 3 Day Western Cape tour
- Medical, liability and travel insurance (available for €10 per week)
- Meals during orientation
- Personal expenses
- Participants with dietary restrictions should expect to cover extra costs associated with meeting their needs
Costs
| Duration | Cost |
|---|---|
| 2 weeks | €999 |
| 3 weeks | €1099 |
| 4 weeks | €1199 |
| 6 weeks | €1399 |
| 8 weeks | €1599 |
| 12 weeks | €1999 |
| 16 weeks | €2399 |
| 20 weeks | €2699 |
| 24 weeks | €3099 |
Medical, liability and travel insurance available for €10 per week.
Prices are reviewed annually and may be updated in the first week of November.
Visit our WHY PAY? and FUNDRAISING pages.
Protect the environment: EIL Carbon offset system
Compensate for the CO2 that your flight will generate by helping to plant trees in Guatemala.
Stories from the field
Country info
Overview
Often referred to as "the world in one country" South Africa is a land of extraordinary beauty, mystery and adventure. Although this expression alludes to the varying climatic conditions, vegetation and the abundance of animals, it can also be used to describe the diversity of cultures, languages and religions, and the extremes of first world development next to third world difficulties. Diversity is now a key feature of South Africa, where 11 languages are recognised as official, where traditional healers practice their trade across the road from stockbrokers, and where housing varies from mud huts to luxurious homes with swimming pools.
From 1948 to 1994 South Africa was dominated by apartheid, a policy of segregation that classified every individual by race, and whereby one's race determined where you could live, work, pray and learn. There was intense widespread suffering as black people were forcibly dispossessed and relocated to the so-called ‘Homelands', which had a shortfall of infrastructure and industry, and were therefore incapable of producing sufficient food for the black population. Black resistance developed in the form of strikes, acts of public disobedience and protest marches, and was finally supported by international opinion, including economic and political sanctions, from the 1960s.
Despite the scars left over from the past, South Africa has made considerable progress since the end of apartheid and it is now, not only possible to visit South Africa, but also to become part of a nation once divided, now standing together. In the 21st century, South Africa is a democratic country representing a diverse population, and is for that reason often referred to as the "rainbow nation". Very much Africa's superpower, South Africa has the continent's largest economy, being a leading exporter of minerals, and a popular tourist destination. But, while South Africa is making up for decades of social disruption and lost education, high unemployment and the AIDS crisis are significant impediments to economic and social progress. Economic inequality remains an overwhelming problem, and South Africa actually has one of the largest gaps between rich and poor - over 50% of the total population are living below the poverty line and two-thirds of South Africa's total income is concentrated in 20% of the population.
General facts
- Land Area: 1,219,912 sq km
South Africa extends nearly 2,000km from Limpopo River in the north to Cape Agulhas in the south, and nearly 1,500 km from Port Nolloth in the west to Durban in the east. Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Swaziland run from west to east along South Africa's northern border. Lesotho is completely surrounded by South Africa, and is situated in the east. - Population: 44,344,136
- Capital: Pretoria
- Ethnic groups: Black 78%, White 10%, Coloured (mixed race) 8.7%, Indian 2.5%
- Languages: 11 official languages: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Pedi, Sotho, Swazi, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu
- Major religions: Christianity, Islam, indigenous beliefs
- Literacy: 86%
- Life expectancy: 52 years
- Infant mortality rate: 61 per 1,000 live births
- Adult HIV prevalence: 21.5%
- Currency: Rand
- GDP per capita: US$12,000
- Economy: Industry: mining (platinum, gold, chromium), automobile assembly, metalworking, machinery.
- Agriculture: corn, wheat, sugarcane, fruits, beef. Exports: gold, diamonds, platinum, other metals and minerals, machinery and equipment.
Climate
Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. With ocean and mountains at the end of practically every street, the city's weather is ever changing and unpredictable. You can read the local press or contact the weather forecast centre for a local's best guess. During the summer it is important to wear sun block of at least SPF15."The Cape Doctor" is the name given to Cape Town's South Easterly wind which roars over Table Mountain and through the City Bowl out to sea, literally ‘cleaning the air' of pollution. This wind also often produces the white cloud, which pours over the tip of the mountain, giving it a ‘tablecloth' effect. The weather across the Cape Peninsula varies greatly and might be 30C in the city bowl but at Cape Point it could be raining. Try to dress in layers to suit all temperatures.
Adventure Activities in Cape Town
- Table Mountain, Lion's Head, Signal Hill: Magnificent walks, magnificent views, try not to go after dark as mugging have occurred, always go in a group.
- Wine route - Delicious sites and sips in the luscious valleys of Paarl & Stellenbosch.
- Cape Point - The most south-westerly tip of Africa where baboons steal ice cream.
- Hikes - There are tons! Contact Gal or Johnny for escorted hikes at 082 576 4013.
- Waterfront - A classy hangout where you will find restaurants, bars, the Imax theatre, movies, shopping, the aquarium, craft markets, the Hard Rock Café and more.
- Gardens - The central park is beautiful and relaxing, home to numerous museums and the South African National Gallery.
- Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens - A delightful place for a stroll and a tea if you fancy it. (In summer there are regular concerts of music and dance on Sunday evenings)
- Museums - art, religion, war, science, and politics - you name it. Some fascinating exhibits.
- Robben Island - Ferry to the island & prison tours by former political prisoners.
- Hout Bay - Fresh fish and chips is a Cape Peninsula speciality not to be missed!
- For River Adventures, as well as kloofing and abseiling in the mountains. Downhill Extreme and Bushwhacked Outdoor Adventures on 027 7618953
- The Zoo and Aquarium are favourite spots for both locals and travellers.
- Check out the small towns outside of Cape Town (Simon's Town, Fish Hoek, and more.)
- Garden Route - a popular trek from Cape Town up the east coast through gorgeous bays and forests, with thriving backpackers and thrill seeker adventures along the way.
FAQ
Questions
Is it safe?
Who volunteers?
Can I go with a friend or family member and can we be placed in the same project?
Is the deposit refundable?
Can I combine more than one country?
How long can I go for?
When can I go?
How much does it cost?
What’s the difference between EIL’s volunteer abroad programme and others?
Why aren’t volunteers paid/given expenses?
Why do volunteers have to pay for their programme?
I would like to participate in the programme but I didn’t realise how much it would be or simply can’t afford it.
How do I apply?
When should I apply?
Can I come in to discuss options?
What visa do I need?
What vaccinations should I get?
What are the age limits?
Do I need any special skills/qualifications?
Can I work on a specific project?
I already have a good language skills – can I drop/reduce the language course?
What is the accommodation like?
Will there be other volunteers going at the same time as me?
What does the optional insurance cover?
Can I apply from northern Ireland/UK/outside Ireland?
Answers
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Is it safe?
We only place volunteers in locations where it is safe to do so. Traveling to a developing country can be challenging, but most people travel without encountering trouble.
Volunteers are briefed on safety issues during the predeparture workshop, during the orientation in-country, by the host family.
We have an emergency system in place with 24h emergency phones (in Ireland and overseas). It is advised to check government travel advice for your destination. Check the websites of the Irish Dept. of Foreign Affairs and the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office. Also read the safety information that we send you and of course exercise caution in any country.
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Who volunteers?
EIL volunteers come from a range of different backgrounds. Our volunteers are:
- Students and young people willing to volunteer abroad during their holidays, between jobs or on a year out.
- Office workers, teachers, farmers, nurses, engineers, factory workers, waiters and just about anybody wishing to help, take some time out or just looking for a different experience during their holidays.
- Retired people who want to put their time and skills to good use.
- Apprentices and students who need to complete an internship or work experience.
- Youth clubs, family groups, clubs, school groups or groups of friends.
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Can I go with a friend or family member and can we be placed in the same project?
It is possible to apply with one or several friends, family members or a partner and to be placed in the same accommodation and project.
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Is the deposit refundable?
The vast majority of the applicants are accepted in the programme but if your application is not successful, we will refund your deposit. Otherwise, the deposit is not refundable.
Can I combine more than one country?
It depends on the combination of countries. As we are dealing with two different programmes you will have two different programme fees. We may be able to look at a reduction of our administration fees but this is a small part of the fee. In the case of Latin American countries you may be able to do the language course in one of the countries thus reducing the fees in the other country. This will depend on our office in country and we need to make arrangements with them to do this.
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How long can I go for?
Programme lengths vary from minimum 2 weeks to 11 months, depending on which country you choose. 2/3 weeks programmes are available in Guatemala, Thailand and Vietnam. Though if you choose to go for such a short period it is important to have realistic expectation as regard as what you can achieve.
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When can I go?
You can join most of our programmes any time of year. Many of them have flexible start dates. We have set start dates in South Africa, Nepal, Nigeria, India, Morocco but they have at least one every month. If you are looking for a teaching placement we need to check the term times in that country.
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Will there be other volunteers going at the same time as me?
If this is a priority for you to be placed with other volunteers we will indicate you the programmes where you are very likely to be with other volunteers. If there are volunteers going to the same destination at the same time we will put you in touch via e-mail so you can become acquainted. There may well be other international volunteers from other countries working with you. However, be prepared that you may be the only international volunteer there. This is a greater opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and get to know local people if you are not relying on other volunteers. Be prepared that you may feel isolated or lonely sometimes. Accommodation in volunteer house and volunteer camps (with other international volunteers) are available in Thailand, Vietnam and India.
How much does it cost?
The programme fee varies depending on which country you choose and the length of programme. All the programme fees and what is included are on our website and in our country specific information sheets. To give an idea, programme fees start at €785. If the full length of language course isn’t needed, we maybe able reduce the programme fee. Our fees do not include flights, visas, vaccinations, medical and travel insurance, and personal expenses.
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What’s the difference between EIL’s volunteer abroad programme and others?
- EIL is an established Irish not for profit intercultural learning organistion
- We work with sister organisations who are members of the EIL worldwide network.
- We will thoroughly analyse your profile, needs and expectation and match it with the most suitable volunteer programme
- Our programme are flexible: placements are available in 15 couintries, from 2 weeks to 11 months with start dates year-round and a wide range of project is available
- Volunteers are placed in local projects supporting local initiatives
- We offer an authentic cultural experience including a full cultural orientation and most programmes include stay with host family.
- Safety is the first priority: our volunteers have 24-hour support in country from our National office, the local co-coordinator as well as mentors on the project.
- Our programmes fees are very competitive and cover accommodation, meals, transfers, support - with some exceptions.
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Why aren’t volunteers paid/given expenses?
We place volunteers in local partner organisations in developing countries. These organisations need volunteers because they can't afford enough paid staff and are not in the position to offer expenses/pay volunteers. EIL and the partner organisations we work with are not for profit making organisations and depend on the support of volunteers. Please see Why pay? for more information.
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Why do volunteers have to pay for their programme?
EIL and our in-country partner organisations are non-profit making organisations. The programme fee covers the cost of placing a volunteer in the project, to provide accommodation, meals, transfer and transport, pre-departure & in-country support and insurance. The projects volunteers are sent to in developing countries cannot afford to cover these costs themselves. Please see Why pay? for more information. Many volunteers cover some of the costs by raising funds. Fundraising support is available and we will send you a fundraising pack.
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I would like to participate in the programme but I didn’t realise how much it would be or simply can’t afford it.
We recognise that some of our participants are students and affording the programme fee is an issue. Many volunteers cover some of the costs by raising funds. Fundraising information and advice is available. We also have a number of travel awards and scholarships available every year. Keep an eye on our website for these awards.
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How do I apply?
Applying for the Volunteer Abroad programme is a straight forward process: after receiving your application and CV we will contact you to find out more about your interests and motivation for wanting to be a volunteer. We then send your information to our colleagues in the country of your choice and they make your placement. As soon as they confirm a suitable placement for you, we will send you all the information necessary to finalise your preparations. Although we are usually able to accept late applications, you should try to return this form not less than 8 weeks prior to your intended date of departure. The earlier you apply, the more time we have to find the most suitable project for you.
What you need to do:
- Complete the application form ( Word / PDF ) and send it to us together with 2 recent passport photos, €350 deposit, and recent CV.
- Do a telephone interview (or in person if you live in Cork and/or want to call in).
- A confirmation letter of enrolment will then be sent within 10 working days.
If you prefer we can send you the application form by post.
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When should I apply?
Although we are usually able to accept late applications, you should try to return this form not less than 8 weeks prior to your intended date of departure. The earlier you apply, the more time we have to find the most suitable project for you, and you will also need time to sort out your flights, visas and vaccinations.
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Can I come in to discuss options?
You can discuss options over the phone or if you live locally you are welcome to come in. Before you take the trouble to visit us at our offices, we recommend thinking about where you would like to go, what placement you are interested in, when you want to go, how long you want to go for and why you want to volunteer. Call to make appointment.
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What visa do I need?
The type of visa will depend on where you are going and for how long. Visa information is available on our website and on the info sheets we can post you. However you are responsible for your visa and you should contact the Irish Embassy or Consulate for the destination country in good time prior to departure for the requirements and application procedures.
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What vaccinations should I get?
For legal reasons we cannot give advice on this. Please contact your doctor or the Tropical Medical Bureau.
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What are the age limits?
You have to be over 18 for most programmes. If you are on the younger than 18 please contact us to discuss the options. There is no upper limit.
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Do I need any special skills/qualifications?
No. We are looking for people who are independent minded travelers. Living in a developing country demands flexibility, initiative, maturity and drive. Of course if you have particular skills and experience that you would like to use then we will take this into consideration when finding a suitable placement. Please see Is this for me?
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Can I work on a specific project?
You can indicate the type of project that you would like to work on and if you have a particular example in mind from our website then you can indicate it. This is not guaranteed. Our partner organisations will suggest a placement for you. They are well placed to match your skills and interests to the right placements.
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I already have a good language skills – can I drop/reduce the language course?
Sometimes this is possible – we would have to know what level you are at and check this with the national office in-country first.
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What is the accommodation like?
It will depend on the country and project, either with a host family, in a volunteer house / camp or with an independent room at the project site. It may be basic compared to the standards you are used to here. We will provide details of the family or accommodation you will be staying in before you leave.
What does the optional insurance cover?
Basic travel, medical and liability and baggage insurance. Information on what it covers is available in the insurance booklet we will send to you. We can also check with our insurance company if you have specific queries.
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Can I apply from northern Ireland/UK/outside Ireland?
- Northern Ireland: we can take applications.
- UK: We will pass your details onto EIL UK and ask them to get in touch.
- Other: Please visit Federation EIL to find the nearest EIL office to you.