Everything has been amazing. I’m gaining a wealth of experience in teaching while diving deeply into English and Spanish grammar. I was even given materials to start learning German!

Each week, I plan classes for three different year groups, teaching Spanish through a variety of engaging activities. Both the staff and pupils are friendly and welcoming, which has made blending in so much easier. This experience has also helped me grow on a personal level, allowing me to learn more about myself and what I truly want to do in the near and long term. I would highly recommend this to anybody!

Im having a good time! spending time here in New Zealand is just amazing I’m having lots of fun doing activities. Lots of hikes and camping around the North Island. My placement is quite cool we are having really nice groups over here which makes work even better We are also doing a lot of stuff around camp like hunting or sports which is really cool. Some small confrontations here and there. But otherwise a really good time overall.

The comunity volunteer placement I did for a whole year was the most incredible experience i’ve ever had in my entire life. I learned life skills that I would have never imagined I will do, like taking care of two little kids, traveling a lot by myself or even learn how to ski.

My main “job” was to help a family and be an aupair of 5 year old twins, but actually in the end they became family to me! I lived 25 minutes away from central london so I used to go in my free time so I made many friends of all around the world. Also, I did volunteering in a children hospice shop for children with cancer, where I learned many skills while doing a really nice thing for the community.

While being there I had the chance to travel to many places in the United Kingdom and Europe, I went to places that I used to just see in pictures and I did many things that I will always remember

This had changed me in a very good way, it helped me to grow as a person and expand my life, friends and even family! It was an incredible year.

I went 10 months to new zeland in Totara springs and it was the best time of my life, I have never seen such a beautiful country and awesome people, it was 1 in a life time experience and I am very glad I went there with new adventures. Is something u would recommend to any one out there.

I Had such a Great Great time here. Working with the kiddies Really was the most rewarding and awesome thing I have ever done, and really helped me grow as a person. Just the feeling of coming into a classroom and in 20 faces the sun rises, that’s an incredible feeling you can not get elsewhere. Also, the experience of being alone in other country, especially Poland, where there are not so many international volunteers so you have to get in touch with local people was really a challenging, but ultimately character growing experience. I can really just recommend doing this kind of international duty to everyone, especially in Poland.

I spend 10 months at Balmoral Hall School in Winnipeg, Canada 🇨🇦. It was such a great experience. I always felt supported by multiple people. At the school, at New Ventures Worldwide, or my organization VIA e.V.

In my situation NVW task was mainly the communication between the school and VIA e.V. They did a great job!

I can only recommend taking this opportunity to live in a different country away from home after school 😄.

For the past 10 months, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to live in the beautiful city of Żywiec. Located in the heart of the southern Polish mountains, this town is known not only for its brewery, scenic lake, and delicious highlander cheese, but also for its remarkable high school: Zespół Szkół Mechaniczno-Elektrycznych. If you’re wondering how to pronounce that—congratulations! That’s exactly how I felt before coming here. But after 10 months of practice, not only can I now confidently say the name of my placement but have even reached a communicative level of Polish. Sometimes I still surprise myself by actually understanding the conversations around me.

As a language assistant, I primarily worked in English classes. I helped students prepare for their matura exams, built vocabulary, played games, and—my favorite part—had one-on-one conversations with my students in English.

Thanks to my coordinating teacher Asia and my two wonderful host families, I experienced Polish hospitality at its finest. Celebrating traditions on Christmas Eve, Easter, and national holidays, skiing and hiking in the nearby mountains, and visiting stunning cities and the Polish seaside were definite highlights of my time here. But what truly made this experience unique were the small moments: making silly jokes with my younger host siblings (being the “big sister” was a first for me), walking the dog, or chatting with students in the hallway.

I also really enjoyed meeting up with the two other volunteers who were working in different parts of Poland—sharing stories, laughs, and experiences was always fun.

I’ve learned a lot—about myself, about the power of communication, and about what it feels like to not understand anything at first, which has made me more tolerant and open-minded. But perhaps my most unexpected personal growth? Learning to love black tea. I used to hate it, but during those cold Polish winter days and boredom in the teachers’ room, I slowly got used to it. Now, I have to admit: nothing beats a good, hot cup of czarna herbata.

The last 10 months were absolutely amazing. I have made unforgettable experiences and learned a lot of new things in Whitemoor Lakes and in the whole UK.

Even with no prior experience, you will be taught how to use ropes properly and what it needs to be a good canoeing/kayaking instructor. There are loads of qualifications that you are able to get, such as the Paddlesport Instructor or Archery Instructor.

To be honest, it wouldn´t be the same without the people here. It´s the other volunteers and instructors that make this place worth it. I love spending time with them here – whether it´s just after work, in the pub or during trips. Whitemoor welcomes everyone, resulting in a variety of volunteers from France, Germany, England, Ecuador and other countries. Together we went to a variety of places. My favorite ones are definitely London, Snowdon, Edinburgh and Liverpool.

However, I have to admit that the work can be very demanding, especially during the busy season. The average day starts at 8:30 am and finishes at 6 pm, with some breaks of about half an hour in between. Sometimes, there is also an evening session from 7 to 8 pm after dinner, e. g. a campfire with the children. Nevertheless, working with children can be really funny and it is very rewarding. You can often see that they really enjoy the session and sometimes gain confidence as well. There is a variety of sessions that you will have with the children – climbing, zipwire, canoeing, team games, circus skills, fencing, abseiling, …

The food is provided during this placement and kitchen staff always cooks something for the volunteers here which is normally the same food as the children get. One downside is definitely that the meals repeat itself very often so it can get kinda boring.

But the people working here are open for criticism and really care about everyone. The time that you work longer will be given back to you with some more rest days and in May there´s also a trip to Wales with all the volunteers where we went outdoor climbing, hiking and caving. Every Tuesday evening we can go and play football which is always good fun. The bedrooms are usually single or double, depending on how many volunteers there currently are.

I can definitely say that it was the right decision to come to Whitemoor Lakes for my gap year. I will never forget all the amazing memories and I´m happy about every person that I have met during my time here. Hopefully, I can visit some friends from England, Ecuador or France at their home one day. This year helped me to gain lots of experience in teaching children outside of the classroom and to improve my level of English significantly.

I had wonderful experiences during my 10 months working as a primary school teacher in Poland. I was placed in the location that fit me best, just outside of Warsaw, with the opportunity to live with a Polish host family. The experience of being able to make my completely own decisions for the first time in my life, was very formative and amazing. I learned more about myself, my habits and my needs. I now feel way more prepared to face living as an adult person on my own, than a year ago. I learned how to be an (assistant) teacher and I met very nice people, from the teachers at school, Beata from NVW, new Polish friends, and the other volunteers. I can only recommend this experience, because it made me feel more secure in navigating the world on my own and overall was a culmination of seeing beautiful new places and meeting nice people.

My experience working with children at PACCAR has changed my life and perspective. It’s taught me to strive to ensure everyone enjoys every second of the activities. To be honest, I learned to appreciate every single laugh and smile because we make a difference in children’s live. Also, being surrounded by nature pushes you to be more active and always on the move. Volunteering opened my mind and gave me the opportunity to travel throughout Europe and the UK. I can tell you it wasn’t easy, sometimes you really need to face your fears and push your limits in ways you’ve never experienced before, but every sacrifice has a reward and recognition in the end. Finally, this experience will give you lifelong friends around the world that you’ll never forget. I think we need to remember that that’s the whole point, to experience and connect with people, even if you grew up in different worlds and with different cultures, traditions and even languages. The love you feel around you and with other volunteers with always lingers in your heart. Thank you all. Thank to PACCAR. Most importantly thanks to the gappers 2024-2025.

I personally went from volunteering in schools in Spain to scout camps in the uk; from travelling alone in this world to forced to live with strangers

It’s been the greatest transition in my adventure of this world, I have loved every moment.

Scout camp volunteer has its high and lows but some of the best rewards, like strong work ethic, the closest friends you will ever make and strange but useful skill sets.

I can easily say the past year of working hard have taught and given me the best lesson and memories.

I am leaving my camp teary eyes with a full heart and full head of knowledge.

I would and will recommend this program and PACCAR to anyone willing and interested in hands on and big adventures

Thank you Paccar

I loved the work with the children, everyone at work was so nice, we did stuff together outside of work as well. Good accomodation, had my own room, I would say almost luxurious furnishing for what I expected. 1 hour from Melbourn, one hour from the great ocean road, could take camp car almost everywhere, next town 15 mins away, enough food money, close other camp with more gappies, had two coworkers living with me, were now really good friends, hab a lot time off to travel, almost saw all of Australia, would recommend

Leaving my comfort zone and my home country wasn’t easy, but it’s something I would recommend a thousand times over, to every young person in their 18s.

It’s simply an experience that changes you from the moment you arrive in a new country; it’s like a fresh start for six months.

I haven’t stopped learning since I arrived, and getting to know new cultures and people is amazing.

I took a gap year before university to do something different that would change me. I wanted to experience independence, managing my money, cooking every day, keeping my space clean, moving alone. Nothing seemed better than challenging myself to try something new, halfway across the world.

I am volunteering in an outdoor camp, I have been in Blackwell Adventure for three months now and I am very lucky to have this Team. Staff members are amazing people that are used to welcoming people from other countries, they have become real friends to me.

My year in New Zealand has been great. I worked 9 months as an Intern at the YMCA Kaitoke Outdoors Education Camp. I met so many cool people, experienced New Zealand and its culture, got better in English and made friends for life.

Even though I’ve liked almost every single second there were struggles and some issuers. This is why I called it climbing Mount Taranaki. Cause climbing is not just fun and great views. But after all the pain, walking and exhaustion there gonna be a great view and a huge feeling of proudness afterwards. And this is how I feel about my year.

Coming to Spain has been the best decision of my entire life. I’ve met some of my best friends that I’ll stay friends with for the rest of my life, had some of the best experiences and adventures I’ve ever had, I’ve been able to experience and live a culture so different to my own, all while trying to be a positive role model to my students.

After getting about 2 months into the program, I made the decision to extend my time here because I knew that I would continue to love what I’m doing.

I have already recommended this program to some of my friends back home in Australia, and will continue to recommend it to everyone because it has genuinely been the best year of my life.

I volunteered in Spain for 6 months as a language assistant and was placed in a small rural town called Faramontanos De Tábara. The community was small and so welcoming. My host family were very friendly and excited to have me in their house, they showed me many amazing things around Spain including Mallorca, Zamora and so much more. Living in such a small community gave me the opportunity to participate in events such as carnival where my group won the costume contest. The school I was placed at had 2 campuses but not many students being such a rural area, the 1st campuses had 11 students where the 2nd had no more then 100 students. The kids were always so eager to learn and improve their skills in the English language. Not only did I help these students learn but I learnt so much about myself and what I was capable of achieving when I put might mind to it.

From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed with open arms by both students, staff and my program manager alike. I never felt hesitation to reach out to the school, teachers, my boss or Mili in any regards, be it for advice, companionship or physical assistance. The warmth and hospitality of the Argentine people made settling in incredibly easy, within a few weeks faces became familiar and familiar faces became friends.

The work itself is deeply rewarding. Assisting with lessons gave me the chance to witness students grow in confidence and curiosity, and I was often amazed by their empathy and effort to communicate despite the language barrier. The bonds I have formed with the children is something I will truly hold onto and remember fondly for the rest of my life. I collaborated closely with dedicated teachers who valued my input, included me in activities and encouraged me to take on more responsibilities. The experience also allowed me to learn about the Argentine education system and the world of teaching in general. These insights prove priceless! The school itself offers many benefits and is always working to promote your best interests.

In terms of accommodation, the host mother is lovely and caring! However, it can sometimes be difficult to manage dynamics within the house. I do feel it should be mentioned that you may end up sharing a room, that there is an “unofficial curfew” with her having to arm the alarm, you contribute to paying for basic household items and there is no iron. Lastly, possibly consider accommodation which is closer to Nordelta campus or make volunteers aware of the longer commute, in saying this the bus transfer provided is amazing! My point being, just make volunteers aware of what to expect in all aspects to avoid any miscommunications. These are, truly, meniscal details but I would’ve preferred to know these things so as to expect them and plan/act accordingly.

In a similar vein, if NVW could provide volunteers with a better outline of expected expenses while living abroad it may be helpful. For someone such as myself, who was straight out of high school, and thus admittedly naive, knowing about things such as the cost of data, a sube card or basic groceries would’ve proved helpfully in order to budget. Furthermore, I was very confused about rent and medical insurance until only later piecing together that it is covered by the school, thus making this immediately clear would be helpful.

But ultimately, this role is perfect for anyone passionate about education, languages, and cultural exchange. It not only makes a meaningful impact on students’ lives but also fosters incredible personal growth. I would wholeheartedly recommend volunteering in Argentina to anyone looking for a transformative experience filled with connection, learning, and adventure. Argentina isn’t just a destination—it’s a place that stays with you.

In 2020 I had the chance to participate in a short volunteering program as a Teacher’s Assistant at a primary school in Reading, England. It allowed me to take my first steps into adulthood in a truly independent way: in a foreign language on the other side of the world. The experience allowed me to discover that I enjoyed working with children and that working as a teacher was something I could see myself doing in the future. I had the opportunity to work with children of different ages (from Reception to Grade 6), so every day was different and there was always something new to do. From helping in PE classes, attending sports tournaments with the kids and learning some words in French to reading stories during snack time, each and every single moment allowed me to grow in many ways and, in turn, become more confident and open to experience new things. I discovered several things about myself in just six weeks, so I believe a volunteering program is a great way to grow while helping others.

I had a lovely experience with NVW and would highly recommend . From start to finish, they demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to excellence. James is very knowledgeable, responsive and kind.

I am extremely pleased with my experience and would not hesitate to work with NVW again in the future. If you’re looking for reliability, expertise, and exceptional adventure, NVW is the perfect choice!

Volunteering in Northern Ireland (UK) has expanded my world inmensively. From doing activities I’d never thought of before and trying new things and foods, to seeing marvelous views and interacting to new cultures; being in my placement has given me such a amazing experience and wider horizons. I was not expecting half of the things I’ve lived while at camp, and not only talking about the site I’ve been in but the whole country and cultures. Being here has allow me to travel way more that I could imagine, getting really close to people from around the world that I would have never gotten the chance to if I stayed at home.

The views, the moments, the people, the activities, it’s something you have to live and feel to fully understand how fulfilling it is. From the beginning with an easy process and certitude of placement, to halfway through with new skills, friends, experiences, to even becoming a new and better you.

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!!!!!

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

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!

I volunteered in a school in the UK. I had an amazing time there. Everyone I met in the school was so nice and willing to help whenever a problem occurred. I was able to do things that I love, which is teaching. I was given opportunities to do things independently and help with stuff outside of boarding and languages. It is something that I 100% recommend doing. You meet amazing people, can connect with and teach the kids, and overall have fun in a new place.

Being part of an outdoor industry It’s probably one of I could ever do. Working with young minds, adults and really any age it’s such a fun experience. I don’t think Blackwood adventure is just about being a good outdoor industry with their activities. I think it’s more than that and it has been. Black adventure has been my home and I was glad to call it my home for the next couple months that I was there because everyone that I had was considered family. if it wasn’t for this placement, I don’t think I would have found another path towards my future. I have learned a lot about how someone’s mine works in a camp rather than just a school and it’s very keen to know how the outdoor camps work safe to say I appreciate, all of the help all of the knowledge that I’ve received in these past months. Would hope to work with this camp again sometime in the future and be considered an outdoor activity instructor.

NVW had taken me on the most amazing adventure of my life I have made life time friends and family and core memories I’ll never stop taking about. I am so grateful and will also recommend NVW Spain to everyone.

This placement is more then just teaching language but share your own culture and learning others cultures and lifestyles

Hello everyone.

My name is Yesith Ramuditha and I am from Sri Lanka. I would like to start by saying do not stop dreaming because one day you will be living in your own dream. I had a very big dream to go to another country and experience different cultures. Right now I am living my dream because of New Venture Worldwide. Thanks to NVW, I got an opportunity that opened doors for me to see the world. I volunteered in a Spanish school for 1 year. My experience was amazing, I traveled all over Spain and made new friends. Throughout every process from legal to family matters, NVW stood by me. I would call them my strong arm. The members of the organization gave me impeccable help with everything. I should especially thank Joshua Golbatt for helping me in every way possible. I will always be grateful to NWV. If it was not for them, it would not have been a great success of me getting this amazing opportunity.

“I’m living my dreams”

Volunteering in Spain was an experience of a lifetime. Every aspect, from the family, the school, the community, and the location was perfect for me. I volunteered in a school just north of Valencia, in a small town called Alboraya, and from the very first moment they welcomed my friends and I like family.

I made countless new friendships, and every day was a new adventure in this school, surrounded by the most amazing people. Having joined the program as a 17-year-old, I found my time in Spain especially transformative to who I am. It is incredibly difficult to put into words, however on the other side of it now, it gives you a new definition of the word home, having found a second family, and a second community on the other side of the world.

I will never forget my time there, and I am incredibly grateful to all the people who helped make it into what it was. My biggest advice to people joining the program is that you get out what you put in, and when you give all your energy and love, it will forever change who you are.

Thank you.

Totara Springs is actually the best place to grow, spiritually and mentally. People at Totara Springs are amazing ,the environment is wonderful. Also, if you like nature this is the perfect place to be at. Now talking about New Zealand, for me New Zeeland is the perfect country to be at if you are an outdoorsy person, because there are so many places to explore that I don’t think one year is enough to see all the beauties that New Zealand can offer.

In conclusion, I recommend this experience if you are not sure about what to study, because traveling and meeting new cultures and new people. It definitely opens your mind and your way of seeing life.

Volunteering as a language assistant in Spain is an incredibly rewarding experience. I had the opportunity to work with students of all ages, from elementary school to high school, helping them improve their English language skills.

The teachers and staff at the school were welcoming and supportive, and I felt like a valued member of the team from day one. I was given the freedom to design my own activities, allowing me to tailor my teaching to the specific needs and interests of the students.

One of the highlights of my experience was being able to immerse myself in Spanish culture and language outside of the classroom. I had the chance to explore the vibrant city of Valencia and Vitoria, try delicious local cuisine, and make lifelong friends with fellow volunteers and locals.

Overall, volunteering as a language assistant in Spain is a truly enriching experience that allowed me to make a positive impact on the lives of students while also gaining valuable teaching experience and cultural insights. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking to broaden their horizons and make a difference in the world.

I was placed in a small town in the Castilla y Léon, called Faramontanos de Tábara, and it is a community dynamic that I don’t believe exists anywhere in the world. Not many people in my town and surroundings speak English so it was a full immersion into the Spanish language as well as lifestyle.

I wouldn’t trade my time in Spain for anything. The schools are wonderful to work with and there’s nothing quite like getting to experience the family and tight knit community atmosphere in Spain. Overall the most rewarding experience of my life thus far and I am beyond grateful for the opportunity provided to me by NVW. I will forever think of the town as “my town” and have made lifelong connections.