Look abroad for work experience with a difference

Friday, 25 March 2011 12:17 PM

Looking to go abroad for a work experience placement with a difference? With unemployment on the rise, many aged 16-24 are looking further afield and independent volunteering organisation Original Volunteers has reported a 100% increase in enquiries.

Cambridge Regional College used the service to send 14 Sports Leadership students to Morocco for one week’s volunteering for the first time in June 2010, and plan to do so again in 2011.

"We not only managed to make a huge difference to the lives of hundreds of children, but it really opens your eyes on how bad poverty really is and how lucky we really are," said Kelly Taylor, a sports student at Cambridge Regional College.

The company says the concept of ‘voluntourism' offers real value for money for students looking to undertake placements but get life experience at the same time.

Original Volunteers projects start from £37 a week, including accommodation. More information on group bookings or individual travel can be found on the Original Volunteers website.

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