Program Reviews

Going to the Academy, I didn't have particularly high goals, I just wanted to get my first experience of teaching English to foreigners. However, I got more than I expected, not only professionally. It was work, travel and adventure, all in one.
The students were very enthusiastic, it was pleasure working with them and teaching each other cultural specifics at the same time. Strong lesson plans, provided by Alyx and Paul, were of great help, you don't have to spend hours thinking the lessons through, it's been done for you. If you have some teaching experience you can easily adapt them to your style or to every group, or just follow the plan.
The location of both, the apartment and the academy, was very convenient to move around. Thanks to Alyx and Paul's tips, you always have options where to go and what to do, if Valencia (and Spain) is new to you. I'd definitely do it again!

Before my week in Valencia I had never taught English as a foreign language and was very unsure of what I was doing. The organisers Alyx and Paul took time to introduce me to other expats who were teaching English in Valencia and it was great to hear their insights into life as teachers.The school itself is based in Alyx and Paul's apartment and they are both teachers so I felt reassured that I wasn't completely on my own. They gave some very good advice and the students were so enthusiastic that I quickly felt at ease. The classes were relaxed but I still felt in control as the students are adults and wanted to be there. I was given lesson plans to follow but could put my own spin on them. Alyx and Paul kept in touch with me throughout my visit and continue to do so now I'm back in England. The apartment that they provided was modern and there is a lovely lady called Bernadette who stays in the apartment and gives you plenty of maps of Valencia so you don't get lost! Overall the experience gave me a good insight into English language teaching and has encouraged me to apply for a Celta teaching qualification.

I spent the first week in December working with Alyx and Paul at their school in the heart of Valencia. I taught two and a half days out of the five. I shared the teaching with another volunteer, Lisa. We worked well together. The group size was small between 3 and 7 in number. The adults were keen, attentive and responsive. The lesson plans were provided by Alyx and Paul subject to amendments at our discretion. The experience was positive for anyone keen to develop their teaching style. We had some fun moments and on two evenings additional contact was made with local Spaniards at the 'intercambio' held in a local bar.

The accommodation was adequate with a private room in a shared flat about 20 minutes by bus from the college.

I completed my TEFL course in the UK, but wanted to gain more confidence and also skills in teaching EFL. The week volunteer teaching position sounded perfect. I felt it would be less pressure as it was a volunteer position.

It was organised from first applying and throughout the week I was there. The accommodation was good and a location great. Valencia is also a very cheap place to live.

I was very nervous about teaching and Alyx and Paul were there to reassure me and give hints and tips with each lesson plan. Just before my first class I was so nervous but Alyx and Paul reminded me that students are aware we are new teachers and that everything would be fine. After the first lesson I was elated that I had done it and I also really enjoyed it. The students were lovely and they even helped me places to visit and what restaurants to go to.

Those working at the school socialised in the evenings which was great fun. For those that are worried about going alone, you will be made to feel welcome as soon as you get there. I class it as an excellent experience I will never forget.

My experience of taking part in the My TEFL experience far exceeded my expectations. The accommodation was amazing- clean, spacious and close to the beach. The other teachers were friendly and supportive, as were the owners of the school. I had been concerned that my lack of experience would be a problem but we were incredibly well supported. Lesson plans were suggested but we were encouraged to contribute and include our own ideas. We only had to work for a few hours a day but on two evenings there was the opportunity to meet local people and I was amazed to find that we were actually given free food and drinks for doing this. The organisers of the program only asked for a donation towards the cost of accommodation and I was happy to contribute. This is a really worthwhile experience, particularly for anyone who needs to gain confidence, as the support you receive is amazing and the students are very grateful. Valencia is a beautiful and safe place to explore and I really can't think of anything negative to include in this review. To anyone who is thinking about spending a week volunteering for this opportunity I would say, stop thinking and just do it.

Having completed my CELTA in Seville I wanted a taste of another Spanish city to identify :

Is this going to be as much fun teaching , as it had been learning ?

Will I have the confidence to move to Spain and teach new students , with the support level offered by this school ?

The answers were a resounding yes !

The accommodation,planning,transport and introductions were all professionally managed . This resulted in me improving my confidence and knowledge of these areas , and have re-assured me that this is the path I want to take for the future.

I am now planning to move to Valencia in the next month to find work , having had this great opportunity with "My TEFL Experience" .

A philanthropic educational programme where the students have a genuine desire to learn, where the staff couldn't be more supportive and where you know you will have made a difference. New teachers get a chance to put theory into practice and the students benefit from the diversity of teaching styles. Detailed lesson plans provided. A safe and welcoming home and teaching environment. Fantastic social programme. What's not to like? My only regret is that I wasn't able to stay longer.