- Why work abroad?
- Costs involved in working abroad
- How to apply?
- Featured summer experience....American summer camp
Why work abroad?
Getting work experience abroad is a fantastic addition to your CV and it is not necessarily that important what job you do or where you go since the importance is placed on the personal attributes you gain through working abroad. It is generally considered to be a reflection of an applicants maturity, ambition, independence, adaptability and initiative, all of which will add significant weight to your future job applications.
Typically jobs are in the travel and tourism industry and may involve working at theme parks, holiday resorts, outdoor centres, and summer camps.
Costs
How much it costs really does depend on where you go, how long you go for and what work choice you make so it is likely that there is an option to suit your budget if you are prepared to be flexible. Unlike most companies that operate in the work and travel industry, we don’t advertise our experiences as one big package price that includes an undisclosed arrangement fee. Any costs associated with our summer experiences are clearly identified so that you can see exactly what you are spending your money on and any fees paid directly to makemysummer.com is in return for a tangible service that you will benefit from directly. In addition to this we also offer a choice for how much support you want from to receive so you have more control over how much you pay.
Our 3 levels of support are:
Basic (free) - this options is best for independent users just looking to do some research and get some simple guidance to point them in the right direction
Standard (£100) - this option is best for individuals participating in a work abroad scheme for the first time
Premium (£200) - this option is best for those looking to learn how to maximise their experience for future job applications and interviews.
For details of the benefits that each option brings click here
How to apply?
If you wish to apply for a specific summer experience then please submit a Work Enquiry form and a designated Recruitment Consultant will be in touch. Applications to a specific work program typically follow a simple 3 stage process:
1. Initial screening for suitability – leading to acceptance
2. Processing of relevent paperwork (references/criminal record checks/health checks as required) – leading to visa application
3. Arrangements for travel – leading to a great summer adventure!
If you are unsure what type of work abroad you hope to do then simply create a profile on makemysummer.com or send us an Enquiry message and we will get in touch to arrange your complimentary telephone consultation.
Featured summer experience...American summer camp!
Summer camp is as big a tradition in America as fish & chips are in Britain! Over 6 million American children go to camp every summer and there are more than 3000 camps in the USA. This tradition is slowing spreading and can be found in different formats in many countries across the world. Summer camps are often found in remote areas of outstanding natural beauty, anywhere between 30 and 90mins from the nearest large city but they can also be found in more populated inner city areas too.
Summer camp gives kids aged 5-16years an opportunity to go away for anything between 1 and 9 weeks of their summer vacation. Kids are parent free and ready for anything! They embrace the chance to try new activities, broaden their cultural horizons and increase their self esteem by being in an environment that fosters inclusion.
What jobs are available?
Camps employ staff from all over the world to give children different viewpoints and cultural perspectives so everything from the New Zealand Hakka, Aussie rules football and learning Polish can all be experienced...the rule is anything goes! Summer camps hire staff to work in each of the three broad areas below and will look at an individual’s skills, experiences and personality to ensure a great job match.
1. General counsellor - responsible for looking after a group of kids and participating in all activities with them ensuring their participation and safety.
2. Activity leader - leading activity sessions for all ages and abilities. Activities offered and skill-level required differ between camps so staff are placed at a camp based on their previous experience and skill level in their chosen activities.
3. Support staff – working in any of the 'behind the scenes' areas including: office; kitchen; maintenance; security; driver; or housekeeping.
Being a staff member at a summer camp does mean hard work and long hours but the rewards are immeasurable! Participating in this type of multi cultural exchange program allows you to meet people from all over the world, develop personal skills that will impress future employers, make a difference to many children's lives and have an affordable way to travel. Apply now!
Applicants should expect to pay an average of £700-750 for their summer and receive $1200-2000 in salary so you will not be out of pocket by the end.
Unlike agencies who offer package deals we outline EXCATLY what costs are involved in working at a camp so you can see for yourself what you are paying for with no hidden surprises along the way. We also don’t ask for any payments upfront so you have nothing to lose by finding out more!
Compulsary fees
- MMS Support package Choice of Standard = £100 or Premium = £200
- Visa package that includes all paperwork, support and full medical insurance for duration of trip = £250
- Embassy fee including passport shipping = £100-120 (price fluctuates as it is charged in dollars)
- Return flight = £250-400 depending on location
Other fees if applicable
- Travel costs to London or Belfast for visa appointment
- Possible administration fee paid for a health history form (£0-£60)
- Criminal check if required = £35
- Baggage insurance if required = £30-50
How much do I get paid for my work?
Salary varies depending duration and skill level/experience required. What we aim to encourage is for Internationals to receive the same salary as a native would, just minus the visa administration costs that have to be paid by an employer.
In addition to salary, all employers are required to provide a meet-and-greet service from the airport you fly in to and must provide food and accommodation for the duration of your work placement.