20 essential Catalan words and phrases to help you settle in to your new life in Catalonia!
These phrases cover basic greetings, polite expressions, asking for directions, and seeking assistance – essential for making your way…
Testimonials/Blog
More about the program, life in Spain, the schools, host families and a bit of everything in between :)
“Catalonia Vibes: Where Catalan is the Coolest Language on the Block”
Hola a tothom. Let's jet off to a place that's all about culture, history, and a language that's as cool as your favorite playlist – welcome to Catalonia! 🌍✈️
Julie Gill from Australia. I built a strong relationship with both the parents and the children in my host family. My host mum always gives me great advice and I find her very inspiring.
One reason I chose to undertake this program was to develop my skills in teaching English as a second language to students. Over the years, I have had multiple students who are EOSL and felt I didn’t always know how to best support them. This program has enabled me to learn about pedagogies, curriculums and materials to support me in this program
Amy from South Africa. Spanish families are much like South African families, close knit and the parents are very involved in their children’s lives. When staying with a family you will become one of their children, so communication is key. Let the family know your schedule so that they can prepare they’re schedule according to yours and vice versa.
My experience has been so good, I didn’t have any expectations but the general experience has been fun. I’ve made many many friends. I absolutely love Spain, it’s safe and it’s beautiful! There’s not enough time to explore!
Paulina from Ireland. The time really does go by quickly. I have no regrets. I am glad I applied for this program as I am gaining teaching experience and I see what the day in the life of a teacher looks like.
In the school: One of the best moments for me is seeing a personality change within the group of teenagers that I teach. Some of them went from having no interest and not participating to making jokes and laughing and enjoying the class. It is nice to see that change happen, the students become more open, and they give me ideas on what they like to do.
Rebecca from Ireland. I would definitely recommend the program, as I’ve mentioned already, the work/life balance is great, you are gaining so much experience but also have free time to do whatever you want!
My expectations have definitely been met while on this program - maybe they have even been exceeded. Teaching is always something I was interested in doing and this experience has solidified that for me! You don't get opportunities like this in Ireland so I am very grateful that this program has given me the space to find out for myself if teaching is a career path I would like to explore further.
Loretta from Ireland. I have no regrets in joining this program. I would highly recommend coming here if you would like to experience teaching and the experience of living here in Spain.
So far, I have become more confident when it comes to preparing materials for the classes and now I know the level of English for each class. I have also become more confident and independent as a person as this is my first time in a different country on my own.
Chris Hardy from Manchester. The family is what makes the experience and is 100% the most important thing to get right.
One of my favourite moments so far outside of English teaching was playing football on the teachers’ team against 2nd Batxillerat on the indoor pitch. It was so loud with students of all ages in the crowd and felt like what I imagine a professional footballer would feel like in an important game. I won’t ever forget it.
Gugu from Cape Town, South Africa. This has been an amazing experience. Working with children is something else, there is never a dull moment! I haven’t laughed this much in a very long time.
I would certainly recommend this experience to others, time flies!! I just wish that the experience lasted longer than 3 months. Now that I’m here I wish I could stay for the entire 9-month school year duration.
Day out in BCN October 2023
In October 2023, our new Voluntary Speakers gathered in Barcelona for a day of connection and sharing experiences. They're already making a difference, building bonds with their host families, and enhancing students' English skills in their assigned school while learning to become future English teachers. Wishing them luck until their December return home! Interested in joining us for the January 2024 intake? Reach out for more info! 🌍🗣️