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Frequently asked questions - Estación Inglesa Juniors
Please click on a question to see the answer.
General Questions
Am I eligible for a programme?
Are you a native English speaker aged between 13-17? Do you like speaking, socialising and spending time with teenagers from different countries?
We are looking for outgoing and talkative young volunteers who are eager to get involved in activities, games and conversations with Spanish teenagers for a week while helping them to practice and improve their level of English.
How do I apply for the programme?
First of all, discuss the possibility of volunteering with your parents or guardians and make sure you understand what the programme is about.
Take a good look at the web page and if you think you will be a good candidate, fill in the online application form.
Your application form is very important, so please take your time to fill it and provide us with as much information as possible!
How much does it cost to take part in the programme?
The programme is free for Native English teenagers. This includes full board accomodation in our venue in double or triple rooms along with Spanish teenagers in a cosy Hotel in Ávila.
We also provide transportation to and from Madrid. You only need to pay for your travel arrangements to Madrid.
Will I get a certificate if I take part in the programme?
If you successfully complete a programme you will get a certificate for 80 hours of volunteer work. In the UK you can use this for the residential section of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. We can also issue a recommendation letter upon request.
About the programme
What are the activities like?
During the mornings you will have one-to-one conversations with Spanish participants. There will also be a snack break and a team activity.
In the afternoons you'll take part in group activities and games in which both Spaniards and native English speakers collaborate. We will also have a short game after dinner.
Most of the activities in the programme are simple and fun, but please bear in mind they do involve a lot of speaking! You will also have some free time to enjoy the swimming pool or socialise.
Will I learn any Spanish?
Sorry but only English is allowed throughout the programme, so the answer is no! You will, however, learn a lot about Spain and make lots of new Spanish friends.
Is the programme safe?
Programmes with Estación Inglesa take place in a safe environment. Our venues have been carefully selected an asessed to ensure that they meet all safety standards.
All throughout the programme, participants will be tutored by professional counsellors and staff members who will make sure that everyone behaves, respects the other participants and follows the instructions. Alcohol and smoking is strictly forbiden in our programmes.
Volunteers are covered by an accident insurance policy. In the event of an accident, a counsellor will take and accompany the participant to the nearest health centre or hospital if required and will notify their parents / guardians.
Please note that volunteers should bring all medications they may need during their stay. If you are coming from the UK or Ireland you will also have to apply for a European Health Insurance Card (which is free) to make sure you are fully covered during your stay. If you come from a country from outside Europe you will need to get your own private health insurance for the week. This is normally inexpensive and is purchased with your travel insurance.
About the venue
How do I get to the venue?
We provide transportation for the volunteers from Madrid to the venue. A counsellor will pick you up from Madrid on the day the course starts. We can pick you up from Barajas airport or Atocha train station.
Please note that you do have to pay for your plane/train tickets to Madrid.
There are several low-cost airlines that fly to Madrid from the UK and other countries. You can find very good deals especially if you book your tickets in advance. You can check flights and prices on Skyscanner.
What is accommodation like at Estación Inglesa Junior?
You will sleep in a double or triple bedroom in a semi-detached house with a small living-room and a private bathroom.
What is the food like at the venue?
There is a varied breakfast and a short snack at midday. For lunch and dinner healthy local and international food will be served. There is also a specific vegetarian menu.
If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know in your application form.
What do I need to bring with me?
You should bring a swim suit, a towel for the pool, enough clothes for a week and your best smile! You should also bring sunglasses or a cap / hat and sunscreen, and any medication you may need during your stay.
You also need to bring your passport and your European Health Insurance Card (or proof of private medical insurance if you're coming from outside Europe).
We will provide you with more detailed information once you have successfuly applied to be a volunteer.
Further information
I have more questions
If you have any other questions feel free to contact us. You can also request an information pack wich contains lots of details about the programme and the venue.