What our former English Language Assistants say

I would definitely recommend being an ELA to anyone with an interest in cultural exchange. I found learning about the Austrian education system one of the most engaging parts of my time here. What especially struck me about teaching was the enthusiasm and interest demonstrated by the pupils about what I was discussing with them, which made teaching a pleasure. I spent many weekends travelling off to the mountains, I explored Graz, and attended cultural events such as classical concerts.

I worked in a secondary school and I had a lot of free reign to plan my own activities and games, as well as create some projects to become part of the curriculum which was really cool. I ran a lunchtime club and was generally someone that the kids felt more comfortable speaking English with. I loved experiencing Quebec's arts/theatre scene and travelling whenever I could. The programme is the perfect way to immerse yourself in a brand new culture with a really rewarding job. 

This experience has been something I never expected to get but am so happy I did. It's worth saying I'm quite the introvert, but my placement was so lovely, and I felt comfortable sharing British English and my quirky and eclectic interests with my students, whilst helping them get to grips with learning a language. Not only can you improve your language skills and gain some valuable work experience, but you also get the chance to really explore somewhere new and meet some amazing new people.

I loved my experience as an ELA. I would definitely do it again, as I believe it is a great programme that offers a great cultural exchange. I travelled a lot, made new best friends, new hobbies, ate new foods and came more and more into my own. It’s a beautiful, unique experience that I would recommend to anyone!

I assisted in three French primary schools, a lot of it involved helping with pronunciation but I had a lot of fun creating my own games and resources for the class when teachers asked. The best part was the community of other assistants I met from all around the world, and learning about their cultures as well; this year I celebrated Thanksgiving, Diwali and Eid. This assistantship is a great opportunity to experience new cultures, try teaching and travel as much as you can.

My assistantship in Paris was beyond special. In the classroom, I worked with so many lovely French students, and it was a true joy to share my language and culture with them. Outside of school, I was not only able to enjoy life the city, but I also had the chance to travel across France. My experiences include spotting carp by the lakeside at the Palace of Fontainebleau, hiking across the Norman cliffs of Étretat, and becoming acquainted with the delights of viennoiserie and patisserie. 

My experience was one of the happiest and most rewarding experiences of my life. From the start, I felt so lucky to be placed in paradise, on the shores of a lake and at the foot of a mountain. I integrated into the community and joined local events and festivals. My classes were varied and at times challenging but I was really well supported by my school and teaching colleagues, which made work a joy to attend every day. I'd have no hesitation recommending the programme, you won't regret it!

This experience could not have come at a better time in my life. In my free time, I did what I do best, I learnt languages, both Spanish and French. I travelled in Spain, in Europe, and even to the Middle East and Asia in my holidays. I also engaged with the local community and the university, and met so many new people. I also completed Camino de Santiago from Leon, 315km in 11 days on foot. Should others seek such an eye opening experience, they should apply!

Some of my favourite memories are going on school field trips. They were an amazing opportunity to explore the local area, learn more about the rich history, and also offered me an opportunity to practice my Spanish and integrate with staff from other departments. Finding your feet in a different country is always a challenge, but at the end of the placement it’s a beautiful moment to realise how you feel so at home in the place that felt so new and strange before.