Reviews
Will Huddleston, August 2008
This experience has been one of the most fulfilling and exciting things I have done in my life. The programme offered me a chance to see and live in China for an extended period of time and discover the richness of Chinese culture. The programme trained me how to teach English and I am now qualified to teach English as a foreign language.
The staff were fantastic, helping with all aspects of settling into a new lifestyle and culture. This programme allows participants to meet many interesting people and make friends from all over the world. Real Gap were very helpful before my departure, offering advice and suggestions to make my trip as easy as possible.
For anyone considering this trip, my advice would be to just go for it, I've had some amazing experiences and made some life long friends, it's been thoroughly enjoyable.
Austen Toone, July 2008 My time in China has been the most exceptional experience of my life so far. I went from being a typical 18 year old in Essex, to a kindergarten teacher that the kids love. I have never been happier working and I wake up every morning ready to handle the children (with or without lesson plans). This experience has set me up for university because I was tackling the challenges of living away from home head on. Although I felt scared and really homesick at the beginning, now I am in love with China and I cannot think of leaving. It's the trip of endless possibilities, just go for it, come here with an open mind and you'll have the experience of a lifetime.
Greg Cheney, August 2006 The teaching itself is really fun and satisfying. I can feel happy when I walk away from the class knowing that these kids will benefit from something I have taught them. The volunteer accommodation is good considering, a little basic but when you're here for a year it can very easily be made into home!
China is fantastic - the odd tropical storm never hurt anyone! The local people stare in fascination and the people you meet are so happy to meet you and to be able to say they know a westerner... it's unbelievable! In all, an amazing and life changing experience that I'd recommend to anyone!!
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