Work and volunteer abroad specialist, BUNAC, has just incorporated a programme of new, overseas teaching internships, which provide a more affordable opportunity to gain a TEFL (Teach English as a Foreign Language) qualification and to secure a valuable work placement. The Teach Internships programme, which is an ideal gap-year opportunity for those who have just completed A-levels or graduated from university, as well as for more mature “career breakers”, is being launched in China and Thailand at a special introductory price of just £745, with Cambodia, Vietnam, Colombia and South Africa to follow. 
 

The introductory price, available for January 2014 departures to Thailand and February 2014 departures to China, represents a discount of more than 25% off the normal programme fee of £995. These affordable prices have been achieved by offering cost-effective online TEFL training prior to departure.  The options of Thailand for two months or China for six months both offer the chance to immerse oneself in the culture and lifestyle of a fascinating country whilst gaining invaluable teaching experience and life skills. 
 

Applicants do not need to have any prior teaching experience or qualifications but must be native English speakers aged 18+, hold a passport from either the UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Australia or New Zealand and hold a clean police check. 
 

Choose between the beautiful Thai province of Kanchanaburi, characterised by stunning forests, waterfalls and cultural landmarks, and the fast-moving Chinese capital, Beijing, with its many iconic sites of interest. 

In China, BUNAC provides a thorough two-week orientation programme incorporating teacher training, classroom practice, language and culture lessons, as well as social outings with the chance to meet and get to know fellow interns before teaching commences. This is followed by a four-month placement in a Chinese primary or secondary school, where interns teach conversational English and get involved with after-school activities.

Interns receive a payment of 2,000 RMB per month and a completion bonus of 2,500 RMB (approx £250). Participants complete their China experience with an organised group trip, such as the Harbin Snow and Ice Festival.
 

In Thailand, interns enjoy a 4-day arrival orientation and training programme in the ancient capital of Ayutthaya and a bike tour of the city and its ruins, before transferring to Kanchanaburi for their 6-week internship in a local school, helping with maths, sports and art. Interns in Thailand have the bonus of a one-week trip to the exotic island of Koh Samet to look forward to, where they can sit back and relax with fellow participants.
 

Those interested in applying for a BUNAC teaching internship should complete an application form, available online. Successful applicants will be enrolled onto the 120-hour online TEFL course, which must be completed before arrival.
 

Included in the price is a 120-hour online TEFL course with a dedicated tutor, leading to an accredited qualification, support with visas and flight booking, pre-departure orientation, airport pickup and transfers, in-country training and orientation, shared volunteer accommodation and weekday meals throughout the entire internship, and professional teaching experience. 
 

Additional costs to be taken in to consideration include flights, insurance, visa and admin fee, police check and optional excursions.
 

The next Thailand departure is 10th January 2014, with a China departure on 5th February 2014 (book as soon as possible). 
 

For further information, visit http://www.bunac.org.uk or telephone 020 7870 9570.
 

Ends
 

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